Wild deer costing Hawke’s Bay farmers tens of thousands of dollars – study

In this article by RNZ, a new study finds wild deer are costing Hawke’s Bay farmers tens of thousands of dollars in pasture, crop and native bush damage. The research was organised by Marie Taylor of Plant Hawke’s Bay, funded by the Hawke’s Bay Regional Council, the Joan Fernie Charitable Trust, and the Pan Pac Environmental Trust.

Economist Peter MacIntyre interviewed 14 landowners, finding thermal imaging often revealed far more deer than expected.

Marie Taylor said this highlighted just how significant the problem has become, with deer numbers growing exponentially and posing a serious threat to farm plantings and biodiversity as they selectively graze out the most palatable native species.

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Wild deer costing Hawke’s Bay farmers tens of thousands of dollars – study
Alexa Cook, Hawke’s Bay and Tai Rāwhiti Reporter
4 August 2026
Radio New Zealand

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Study reveals cost of wild deer damage (3m 14s)
Alexa Cook, Senior Reporter
4 August 2026
Radio New Zealand