I grew up and lived in the North Island of New Zealand, so I am not so familiar with the territory that this story is set in. However, this is truly an amazing feat - just like
Whip said. There is some territory a bit like this in the North Island, and I have trekked through there in my younger days. However, the Southern part of the South island is much more rugged and dangerous. Climbers die there every year.
To be able to go up there - two years in a row - on public land (no fences, no guide, no canned-hunt) - and harvest two of these majestic, wild bucks with a trad bow, is truly truly amazing. To put this into perspective, when I lived in NZ in my youth, my uncle was an avid dear-stalker (hunter). He belonged to a club, knew all the good spots, had the latest rifle and gear, but I think in all the years he hunted, he only ever shot one deer. Imagine pursuing a prey that is much more wary than a deer, in open country, with a bow that has max range at about 30m, in rugged mountains - is truly mind boggling.
Clint - you have my utmost respect. I struggle to even hit a rabbit here where I live in the Australian desert!!
Sutto