The South Canterbury kennels are home to 16 couple of quality, medium-sized Harrier hounds.

On hunting days, between 11 and 13 couple are taken out.

The South Canterbury hounds are a well-matched, even type, known for their good voice and smart appearance as a pack. Significant influences on the pack include Salute, a good-natured hound who hunted particularly well, along with King Country bloodlines through Uncle and Angel. These influences have further developed the pack’s voice, especially in the younger hounds.

The hounds are notably good-natured, a quality that reflects both careful breeding and the long-standing practice of “walking” pups with families during their first six months. These families may then choose to sponsor the hound (see Hounds & Sponsors).

At the conclusion of each day’s hunting, the Huntsman announces the hound that performed particularly well, known as the Hound of the Day.

At the end of the season, the hound or hounds receiving the most votes are awarded the Treason Trophy, which was presented to the South Canterbury Hunt by the Fisher Family in 2002. From 2024, the new entrant hound receiving the most points is also awarded the Ann Smith Memorial Plate – Best New Entrant Hound.

Hound of the Day: Click here

Hound sponsors (2026): Click here

Treason Trophy (Hound of the Year): Click here

The Ann Smith Memorial Plate Awareded to Best New Entrant Hound: Click here