NAU MAI HAERE MAI - WELCOME TO OUR PLACE

The inaugural International  Biology of Deer Production Conference was held in Ōtepoti Dunedin, Aotearoa New Zealand in 1983. We believe 2026 is a great time to bring back, the now Deer Biology Congress, to the South Pacific after considerable change in the Aotearoa New Zealand and the global deer scene. AgResearch New Zealand and Deer Industry New Zealand are pleased to be the hosts of IDBC2026, being held at the University of Otago Ōtākou Whakaihu Waka.

We have chosen the theme of “Your Deer Here” to highlight the unique and unusual situation that cervids and people managing them experience in New Zealand. The New Zealand environment has lead to scientists and managers making a range of innovations and research that we believe will be of interest to the international deer biology community.

We therefore warmly welcome you to our home and hope to see many of you in Ōtepoti Dunedin in February 2026.

Ngā mihi nui

David Stevens 
On behalf of the 2026 Local Organising Committee.

• Bruce Warburton
• Bryan Thompson
• Jimmy Suttie
• Kaylyn Pinney
• Pablo Gregorini
• Sze-Wing Yiu
• Tony Pearse
• Victoria Chapman

• Registrations open end of January 2025
• Early bird rates end December 31, 2025
• Abstract submissions open end of January 2025
• Abstract submissions close September 30, 2025
• Acceptance of Abstracts by October 31, 2025

New Zealand is a land of unique indigenous animals and plants that evolved with no land mammals. In the 19th and 20th centuries  a broad range of cervids from all over the world were introduced into the complexity of wild landscapes. These introductions  have created a plethora of new challenges and opportunities.  It is  through these that new innovations have arisen.

The New Zealand deer scene includes;

• The management of wild cervids as an invasive species and conversely as a hunting resource
• The farming of deer as productive ruminant species that has permitted the innovation of unique high quality animal products 
• Tourism business around trophy hunting

Managing the new creative  industries with conflicting conservation  and recreational activities has spawned innovative scientific approaches to addressing the many challenges and opportunities including;

• Genomic research
• Wild animal management
• Disease research
• Reproduction research​​
• Hunter and conservation partnerships​​
• Product development​

“The Association for the Advancement of Animal Breeding and Genetics (AAABG) is an exciting and dynamic professional organisation that brings together experts, innovators, and thought leaders from across Australia and New Zealand. AAABG connects livestock scientists, breeders, educators, students, and industry service providers, all with a shared passion for advancing animal genetics.

Every two years, the AAABG hosts a highly anticipated conference that serves as a platform for cutting-edge scientific research in animal genetics. This conference not only highlights the latest advancements in the field but also sparks critical conversations about the real-world applications of genetics in animal production. Whether you're a researcher, industry professional, or student, the AAABG conference is an invaluable opportunity to exchange ideas, collaborate, and shape the future of animal breeding and genetics.

With its rich history of fostering innovation and driving progress in animal genetics, the AAABG conference is a must-attend event for anyone committed to advancing the science and practice of animal breeding!”