Fiordland Big 3
Held annually on King’s Birthday weekend, the 2025 Fiordland Big 3! Gather your family and friends for an action-packed weekend of hunting, games, food, and fun.
Hunting kicks off Thursday night, with the official weigh-in on Sunday at the Te Anau Rugby Club grounds. This event isn’t just about competition—it also promotes pest control, helping to protect New Zealand’s native wildlife.
Beyond the hunt, enjoy family-friendly activities, including pig-carrying and possum-throwing contests, plus delicious food stalls and a fully stocked bar.
New categories include special prizes for Mums & Kids, making it an inclusive event for all ages. Whether you're competing or just cheering on the teams, it's a GREAT FAMILY DAY OUT
Fiordland Big 3 Details
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All competitors should read this guide to understand what to expect during the event. We recommend printing it for reference. Be sure to also review the full 2025 tournament rules before participating.
Entry Fees
Entry costs vary by category. Adult teams (ages 16 and up) can enter for $200, with up to four people per team. Youth competitors (ages 12-16) can enter for $40 per team, while kids (15 and under) pay $30 per team. A special Mums & Kids category is available for $35 online, or $40 for those registering on the day.
Key Dates & Times
All entries must be submitted by 5:00 PM on Thursday, May 29. However, kids can still enter during weigh-in. Hunting officially begins at 7:00 PM on Thursday, with no early starts permitted. On Sunday, June 1, weigh-in will take place at the Te Anau Rugby Grounds, starting at 12:00 PM. The final deadline for weigh-in is 2:00 PM sharp, with no exceptions for late entries.
Weigh-In & Prize Giving
The Te Anau Rugby Club bar opens at 12:00 PM on Sunday, the same time as weigh-in. As this is a licensed venue, BYO alcohol is not permitted. Food will also be available for purchase. Once all entries have been processed, the prize-giving ceremony will begin, typically between 3:30 and 4:00 PM.
Scoring & Prizes
Points are based on the combined weight of the deer and pig. The heaviest of each species will earn 100 points, with the second heaviest receiving 99, the third 98, and so on. The major prize, provided by Te Anau Helicopter Services, will be awarded via a barrel draw to any team that successfully weighs in all three required animals. To claim this prize, team members must be present at the draw.
Additional prizes will be awarded for achievements including heaviest combined weight (deer & pig plus a pest), heaviest deer, heaviest pig, best tusk, highest Douglas score, and best presented animal (Dallas Wilson Memorial Trophy). There are also awards for best ladies’ team, best kids’ team, and best youth team.
Safety Guidelines
Competitors are responsible for their own safety, as no formal monitoring takes place during the event. In an emergency, dial 111 immediately. Firearms must be secured properly in accordance with legal regulations. Police will be present throughout the weekend, including at weigh-in and prize-giving. A courtesy coach will be available while the bar is open, but all participants are encouraged to arrange their own sober driver.
For any further questions, please contact tournament management via email.
Event Rules
Our Sponsors
This Event can only be made possible with the support of our community and some generous big brand and local sponsors, so for that on behalf of the Te Anau Rugby Club we thank you!
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