Your chance to hunt Merriam’s wild turkeys in New Zealand.
Few turkey hunters have contemplated hunting these wild birds outside of North America. Incredibly, New Zealand has a thriving population, and hunters can now travel there to hunt the thriving species.
Last year, Turkeys for Tomorrow (TFT) took a group of hunters to this vast foreign land. The goal? Study why Merriam's wild turkey populations are booming so rapidly, and to even hunt a few of them while there. TFT held a hunt raffle for one lucky hunter to join them. The crew included TFT members, Realtree's Tyler Jordan, and others.
"TFT was very concerned about turkeys in New Zealand because we are seeing a population that is growing much faster than what we've seen here in the United States," Lupardus said. "TFT wanted more information about that."
This year, Steve Schultz of Florida is TFT's 2nd annual New Zealand turkey hunt winner.
"He will be joined by Ben O' Brian with the Roost podcast, as they adventure into the vast open ground of the South Island," said TFT CEO Jason Lupardus. "Dink Watson with New Zealand Turkey Adventures will host TFT."
The hunt will take place from August 27-30, 2026. Interested parties can reach out to New Zealand Turkey Adventures for additional questions and booking.
"Any TFT member can receive a special discount if they want to attend that week," Lupardus said. "You need to act quickly, as there are only a few slots left remaining. This is an opportunity for you to harvest up to six Merriam's turkeys with all accommodations included, except for your flight.
Visit Newzealandturkeyhunt.com for more information.
Support TFT
Wild turkey populations are on the decline throughout the nation. Established in 2021, TFT is new to the landscape, but it's driven by highly trained professionals with decades of conservation experience. To support TFT, and the complete body of wild turkey research and conservation it's leading, become a member today. An Adult Annual Membership is $50, multi-year Team Turkey Membership is $250, and Life Membership is $2,500. Every dollar counts in the fight for wild turkey conservation.