Deer-free status has returned to two Fiordland island sanctuaries after checks by the Department of Conservation (DOC) led to the successful removal of three wild deer.

Pukenui/Anchor Island, located in Dusky Sound, had two deer removed, while Indian Island in Preservation Inlet had one.

DOC conducts annual checks of these islands along with the surrounding islets to ensure they continue to provide safe, intact habitats for native plants and wildlife.

Anchor Island, which received wild deer-free status in 2007, is one of Fiordland’s most treasured islands and home to the critically endangered kākāpō and kākāriki karaka. .

DOC Project Lead Biodiversity, Monty Williams, said protecting vegetation was critical to maintaining these ecosystems.

"If left unchecked, even a few deer can quickly rebuild a population — potentially undoing decades of conservation gains”.

“Acting now prevents a far bigger and costlier problem later."

"This investment secures the islands’ long-term ecological health and ensures Fiordland’s unique biodiversity continues to thrive.”

However he said removing deer from such remote and rugged locations was hard and expensive work as the islands lie deep within Fiordland and are anly accessible by boat or helicopter.

DOC contractors used a combination of aerial hunting with thermal technology and ground hunting to locate and remove the animals.

Every step required precision planning to avoid disturbing sensitive habitats and ensure staff safety.

“But the cost of inaction would be far greater — both ecologically and financially."

"By stepping in early, we’ve avoided repopulation to two of New Zealand’s most important sanctuaries,” says Monty.

“We prioritise keeping areas such as Coal Island, Chalky Island, Anchor Island, Indian Island, Secretary Island, and the Cleddau Valley catchment near Milford Sound wild deer-free as part of our wild animal management within Fiordland National Park."

“New Zealand’s island sanctuaries are internationally recognised as models for species recovery and ecosystem protection."

"Maintaining a wild deer-free status doesn’t just safeguard wildlife — it demonstrates how targeted, science-led action can contribute to biodiversity protection worldwide.”