Nelson police have taken action against five people in an incident where a mob of eight deer were targeted with a vehicle.
One stag was struck by the vehicle and was subsequently killed by those involved.
The barbaric early morning act was filmed by one of the group, who put the clip online, leading to a concerned member of the public to contact police.
Police said the deer were hit at about 3am on Saturday, March 30.
Two vehicles were driving on the Marsden Valley Road in Stoke when police allege the animals were targeted “deliberately”. Video of the incident was later uploaded online.
Police followed a number of inquiries, and executed warrants at several Nelson properties, leading the the arrest of three men.
“A 20-year-old Nelson man has been charged with attempting to pervert the course of justice, reckless driving, reckless ill-treatment of a wild animal, and unlawful hunting,” police said.
“A 19-year-old Nelson man has also been charged with unlawful hunting and reckless ill-treatment of a wild animal.
“Both are due to reappear in the Nelson District Court on 29 April.
“A 21-year-old Nelson man has been summonsed to appear in court on 20 May, charged with unlawful hunting.
“Two 16-year-olds have been referred to Youth Aid.”
Police thanked members of the community who assisted the investigation, and brought the video to their attention.