Thread: Where to hunt when wanting to consistently fill a LARGE Meat locker/freeza from Auck?

I realise these questions get asked a lot, so did a search and found some good info, but would like some personal help from ya'll if thats ok.

Im hoping to retire in the deep south for its hunting and quality underwater gathering. Until then, Im stuck working in Auckland.

Living in Auckland, havnt been hunting NZ for 25 years. Not asking for X spots. Just what would be the most productive public property areas close to Auckland that would consistently produce deer? I have a large family and am not fond of factory farming, so prefer to eat wild meats. I do enjoy red deer but will eat anything (almost). I also spearfish so hunt under water a lot. I got most of my hunting gear sorted, due to doing a lot of hiking overseas and the occasional hunt, but will need top layer Camos and a new pack and meat bags, and a solid rifle, have already been looking into that side of things but any good quality budget options appreciated ( when it all adds up it is not cheap but at same time being cheap just buys rubbish)

Will probably join a club here in the not too distant future. Any tips on finding like minded hunting buddies? (it takes all sorts in this world, Im more of a Commerce guy by day, hunter by weekend and appreciate the company of fairly cultured sorts, but at same time am not a snob, hope that makes sense) But any tips on the better public blocks that hold good numbers close enough to Auckland to get my juices up watching some videos would be appreciated. I was thinking Kaimanawa's but if there are more productive areas within 3 hours of there Id rather go where my chances are higher. I tend not to be a hunter for sport but one for a means of protein source, I do enjoy meat, Ive tried not to, but honestly, that is cruelty to me haha.

I also eat smaller game like Rabbits, eaten possum but not so keen. Are there any public blocks Taupo upward I can go to plink a few furry stew stockings?