west coast hunting

With school holds coming up I'm keen to take my 12yr old out to find him his first deer.
looking for a potential doc area.
i have been up the Taipo valley and only saw one bit of sign before seeing a 1080 sign...
several walks in the upper crooked and Morgan valley area but again little sign.
I saw on the site reference to the Haupiri river up to Elizabeth hut, could anyone tell me if it's worth the effort.
I was told access thru Glorivale can be difficult a while ago has it changed?
thinking day trips or a hut nearby for overnights just to limit how much stuff to carry but would really appreciate any advice in finding a spot.
i spend a bit of time in the brunner area but happy to travel further north if need be.

Be happy to shout a few beers ,or if pay a access fee if someone has a block I could visit.
can assure you I'm honest, reliable, happy to supply references....

I know this is often a sensitive request but appreciate any advice.
cheers

first thing is find out which areas has recently been hit with 1080