Hunting Aotearoa

Hunting Aotearoa is an iconic hunting television series from New Zealand's Hikoi Productions that debuted in 2005, it combines the exhilaration of hunting, the stunning scenic beauty of New Zealand, and a rich cultural history into a rich and exciting viewing experience. The series aptly takes its name from the Maori word for New Zealand, "Aotearoa," which roughly translates to "the land of the long white cloud."

The series centres around hunting journeys embarked upon in various locations across both the North and South Islands of New Zealand. Each episode presents viewers with different types of hunting challenges, with an engaging array of prospective targets that are passionately pursued. From rabbits to deers and goats to pigs, the show hunts a variety of mammals across New Zealand, and in later seasons, they extend their hunting grounds to the remotest parts of the Pacific and Australia.

Hunting Aotearoa is more than just an ordinary hunting show. It is layered with a focus on indigenous Maori culture and traditions that have deep roots in New Zealand, particularly regarding hunting methods. Hunting is a significant aspect of Maori heritage, and through this series, the audience gets a taste of this rich history, traditional knowledge, and reverence for the wilderness. This element adds a unique cultural flavour and educative edge to the series that separates it from the generic hunting programmes.

The show features a blend of professional hunters and enthusiastic novices, providing an engaging mix of expertise, courage and comical learning moments. While the series may focus on hunting, it takes care not to promote any cruelty or needless destruction. The hunting activities in the show are regulated within the constraints of sustainability, local laws, and respect for nature. Hunting Aotearoa is not dedicated to glorifying the kill, but rather the entire process of hunting, and the close, respectful relationship between the hunter and the land they hunt upon.

Broadcaster and veteran broadcaster Pete Peeti served as the host during the initial years of the show, bringing a wealth of traditional knowledge, bush skills and unsinkable humour to the program. His jovial personality shone through every episode, highlighting the pleasure and camaraderie related to hunting. The show has had other hosts throughout its run, all of whom added their unique touch to the series, enriching it with their individual traits and the wealth of their knowledge and experience.

Food preparation occasionally features in episodes, with the show having a 'hunter to table' aspect in which hunted game is prepared and cooked in traditional Maori or local style, thereby giving the audience a detailed, start-to-finish adventure to look forward to in each episode. This not only adds to the overall appeal of the show but also shines a spotlight on the integration of indigenous food practices into modern-day cuisine.

Stunning cinematography is a hallmark of Hunting Aotearoa. As the host and participating hunters trek through dense forests, mountainous landscapes, and gorgeous coastal regions, the viewers are led on a captivating journey through the breathtaking, raw beauty of New Zealand. Additionally, carefully selected soundtracks add to the feel of the episodes, paving the way for more dynamic, immersive experiences.

Thematically, Hunting Aotearoa humanizes hunting, foregrounding it against the rich tapestry of Maori culture and tradition, the majestic New Zealand landscape, and the natural camaraderie born of shared adventures. The show is less about the pursuit of game and more about the quest for shared experiences, cultural exploration, and a deeper connection with the land. From the lush wilderness of New Zealand to the captivating culture of the Maori, Hunting Aotearoa provides viewers with an engaging escape into an entirely different world.

Hunting Aotearoa is well-suited for anyone with a taste for adventure, cultural immersion, and outdoor activities. Even, for non-hunters, the series offers tremendous value in the form of high production visuals, rustic charm, and education about Maori heritage and New Zealand's extraordinary biodiversity. This series has become a classic owing to its commitment to respecting local culture, environment and its unique blend of adventure, camaraderie, and storytelling.