Now I live in the hunter's paradise of Te Anau, nestled in far flung Fiordland, one of the most stunning places on the planet, where at every turn there is a view that would make the average city dweller jealous. Within these vistas reside big game hunting opportunities for Red and Fallow deer, pigs, chamois and of course Wapiti.
I am blessed to be able to enjoy the endless hunting options with a VERY supportive family who are regularly abandoned as I hit the hills. I am sometimes left asking myself what is it that makes me do this? what is it that makes hunting so fulfilling? Especially as you sit wet to the bone, shivering in the half-light getting eaten by Fiordland sandflies. A recent adventure reminded me of all the reasons why we do what we do and love it, and what leaves you with that feeling of contentment.
My good running mate Scott Underhay and I met through the local harriers many years ago and worked out we not only shared a love of running, but also of hunting, and when Scottie moved to Te Anau, it really opened some doors for me. He is one of those people who is not only as fit as a tahr but he can climb like one as well. More than once I have followed him up a hill until the point where I decline the offer to follow any further as things have gotten a bit “steep” (understatement). Scottie loves to climb mountains
