Where to hunt Wallaby
Wallabies are small to medium sized macropods native to Australia. They have also been introduced to several other locations, including New Zealand. With no natural predators, wallabies have thrived, particularly in the South Island, where their population has grown to the point of requiring management through regulated hunting. The Canterbury, Otago, and Southland regions of New Zealand, where these animals inhabit grasslands, bush-covered hills, and agricultural areas. Hunters often pursue Bennett’s wallabies, the most common species in New Zealand, which can be found in high numbers in certain regions. Wallaby hunting is also available in Australia, specifically in Tasmania. A lot depends, however, on the species - some species of wallaby are protected - and the territory. The hunting industry is not as developed as in New Zealand, and for a travelling hunter opportunities are not as easy to find.
Price distribution
Wallaby hunting is one of the more affordable small game hunts in Oceania. Guided day hunts typically range from $250 to $600, depending on location, terrain, and outfitter services. Multi-day packages, often combined with other small game or varmint hunting (such as rabbits, possums, and hares), range between $1,000 and $2,500, with some outfitters offering wallaby hunting as an add-on to larger game hunts for species like red stag, tahr, or fallow deer.
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When to hunt Wallaby?
Wallabies can be hunted year-round in New Zealand, as they are considered an invasive species with no seasonal restrictions. The best hunting occurs in autumn and winter (March to August) when cooler temperatures make for comfortable hunting conditions, and the animals are more active during daylight hours. During the summer months, wallabies tend to be more nocturnal, requiring early morning or late evening hunts for the best success.
Hunting methods All hunting methods (9)
Unlike the kangaroo, wallabies tend to inhabit denser brush areas, where they hide in thickets, and come out to feed at night, at dusk at dawn, or even at daytime depending on the species. Australian aborigines traditionally hunted wallabies by setting fire to the bush, and netting or killing the animals as they try to escape. European settlers adapted this method to their preferences, using dogs to flush the wallabies, and shooting them with shotguns. This is the preferred method for sport hunters in Australia. For crop patrol, hunters use rifles with spotlights or night vision devices at night. Alternatively, hunters can sit on vantage point, scope the area, and snipe the wallabies with long-distance rifle shots; this method is especially popular in New Zealand.
Why hunt Wallaby?
Wallaby hunting is an exciting and unique small game challenge that blends elements of varmint hunting with the adventure of a New Zealand safari. As an introduced species with no natural predators, hunting wallabies helps control their populations, preventing damage to native vegetation and farmland. Their small size and quick movements make them a rewarding test of marksmanship. It is often advertised as “a little taste of hunting in New Zealand at a fraction of the cost of a tahr or red deer hunt”. Whether as a standalone trip or part of a larger adventure, wallaby hunting delivers a fun, affordable, and truly unique experience. Start planning your wallaby hunting adventure today!
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