The Ghost Buck: A Fellow Hunter's Test Run in New Zealand

There’s a certain kind of thrill that comes from knowing you’re stepping into the boots of a true hunter. Not a TV personality, not a social media influencer, but someone who’s earned their place in the hills, someone who knows the land and the game. That’s the feeling I got watching Joe Wilds’ recent hunt for ‘The Ghost Buck’ in New Zealand, a deer so elusive he’d earned his nickname. It wasn’t just a hunt; it was a test run – a chance to see exactly what Free Range Hunting New Zealand offers, and a chance for us to see what it’s really like to chase a legend.

Josh Austin, our Founding Guide, often talks about the preparation – the mental fortitude, the skill, the understanding of the land – that makes a hunt worthwhile. This isn’t about racking up trophies; it’s about facing the challenge, respecting the animal, and providing for yourself and your family. Like David facing Goliath (1 Sam 17:34-37), the true hunt is a preparation for whatever life throws at you. And seeing Wilds navigate the rugged terrain, the unexpected boar, and the constant vigilance required to track a phantom deer, it’s a powerful illustration of that principle.

The video opens with a sense of anticipation. Wilds is in unfamiliar territory, a 20,000-acre expanse of New Zealand’s coastline and hills, invited by Oliver Walker Cudby of Free Range Hunting New Zealand. He’s not just there to hunt; he’s there to experience the operation, to put it through its paces. As he says, “Let me be the test dummy.” It’s a humbling approach, recognizing that true learning comes from facing challenges head-on, from getting your boots muddy and your hands dirty.

What struck me most was the sheer remoteness and self-sufficiency of the operation. They’re completely off-grid, running on solar power, in a hunting cabin tucked away in the wilderness. It's a far cry from the comforts of modern life, and a stark reminder of the skills and resilience required to thrive in such an environment. It echoes Jeremiah 16:16— being drawn out of the holes of the rocks, as Josh has been, from a life of mining to a life of guiding—a gathering of sorts.

The sheer variety of game on offer is impressive. Beyond the elusive fellow buck, there’s red stag, pigs, and goats, all thriving in this wild landscape. And the stories attached to those animals – the American hunter who took down a massive stag last year – add another layer of intrigue and respect for the hunt.

Wilds’ willingness to share his experiences, his gear, and his challenges is a hallmark of the Rogue Hunter ethos. He doesn't shy away from the tough parts – the driving on rough terrain, the lack of creature comforts. He shows us the reality of a truly wild hunt, and it’s a reality worth experiencing.

Whether you're a seasoned public-land DIY hunter or considering a guided trip, this video offers a glimpse into the possibilities. If you’re looking for a challenge, a connection to the wild, and a chance to experience a truly unique hunt, Free Range Hunting New Zealand might just be the place to find it. The link is in the description – book your own adventure and see what’s possible.

For those of you in the US, remember to check your draw tag application deadlines for elk and deer season. A well-placed shot and a full freezer is a testament to preparation. And for the younger generation, find your local youth hunter-education chapter—start honing those skills now.