North Island of NZ Fly Fishing Itinerary

Welcome to Auckland, The City of Sails.

Situated amongst a cluster of extinct volcanic cones, Auckland is a large harbour that bustles with life, both on water and on land. It straddles a slim piece of land with the coastline facing both the Pacific Ocean and, on the wild West Coast, the Tasman Sea.

After checking into your hotel, relax and stretch your legs with a stroll around our beautiful city. Explore the highly acclaimed Waterfront Restaurant Quarter or choose one of the many activities available for a more in-depth understanding of Auckland and the surrounding area. Visit the iconic Sky Tower, join a whale and dolphin cruise, visit nearby Waiheke or Rangitoto Island.

Accommodation: Auckland - 1 Night

Today you'll drive to the North Island's west coast to meet the Waitomo glow worms before heading onwards to Taupō, home to the largest freshwater lake in New Zealand.

Waitomo Underground Cave Tour 
Explore the famous Mangawhitikau Gorge Glowworm Cave on a guided tour, where a peaceful boat ride glides you beneath a canopy of twinkling glowworms, creating an unforgettable spectacle. 

Continue your adventure with a walk along an ancient dry riverbed to Te Ana o Te Atua, the Cave of the Spirit. Inside, be awestruck by the intricate limestone formations, fascinating fossils, and dramatic views of the sky through natural sinkholes. This unique journey offers a blend of natural beauty and wonder, showcasing nature at its most remarkable.

Approximate Distance: 345 km | 214 miles  Total Driving Time: 4 hours 30 mins

Accommodation: Taupō - 2 Nights

The best way to experience Lake Taupo's renowned trout fishing is to charter a boat. Have fun fishing, or just sit back and enjoy the scenery while your mates do all the work. Most fishing on Lake Taupo takes the form of trolling, either lures or flies (no bait fishing is permitted). We use a combination of downriggers, harling and trolling on board. Trout average around 4 pounds and a typical Taupo fishing excursion will see your crew prepare your catch for a delicious snack, either barbequed or sashimi style. Experience Taupo's renowned trout fishing or just relax and enjoy the scenery.

Today you will make your way to Poronui Lodge nestled in the secluded Taharua Valley. During your drive you have the option to stop and visit the mighty Huka Falls, known for its powerful display of water.

Connect with nature at your own pace and explore the stunning landscapes surrounding the lodge, whether it's a peaceful walk along the river, a quiet moment by the lake, or simply unwinding in the tranquil surroundings. For guests looking to reconnect with nature, the 6,000 acres of native beech forest is a haven for endangered species such as native mistletoe and bush falcons. Take in the stunning landscapes as you explore scenic walking trails and  spot native wildlife. For those seeking true solitude, take one of the simple maps and perhaps a picnic lunch and and spend the day immersed nature's beauty.

Approximate Distance: 80 km | 50 miles  Total Driving Time: 45 mins

Accommodation: Taharua Valley - 2 Nights

Fly fishing at Poronui epitomizes the ultimate New Zealand experience, with its gin-clear waters nestled amidst native forest and abundant with large brown and rainbow trout. Renowned for its dry fly fishing, Poronui offers exceptional access to some of the country's premier fishing locations, guided by experts who know the waters intimately. 

The property features nearly 25 miles of pristine fishing terrain, including the winding Taharua spring creek and the vibrant Mohaka River, which meanders along one of its borders. Surrounded by majestic mountains, this remote sanctuary provides access to breathtaking wilderness reserves. These secluded rivers and streams rank among the most coveted fly fishing destinations in the world. Your expert guide will lead you to the finest fishing spots, where you can enjoy the thrill of stalking and sight-casting to large browns and rainbows in the crystal-clear shallows.
 

Today you will continue your journey to Tūrangi, the unofficial trout-fishing headquarters of New Zealand. The mighty Tongariro River is world-renowned for fly-fishing. Its clear, fast-moving waters flow over a mixture of rock, gravel, and sand. With deceptively deep pools and boisterous rapids, it attracts huge brown and rainbow trout in the tens of thousands.

The fabulous Tongariro Lodge will be your home for the next two nights. Situated in beautiful park-like grounds on the banks of the Tongariro River, this authentic luxury fishing lodge is as close to the action as you can get. Settle in by the open fire, and treat yourselves to a meal cooked by the talented Lodge chefs: great fuel for tomorrow's trout-stalking expedition on the river.

Approximate Distance: 95 km | 59 miles  Total Driving Time: 1 hour 15 mins

Accommodation: Turangi - 2 Nights

Spend an unforgettable day on the largest and most important spawning river in the area with your expert Tongariro Lodge fishing guide.

Guided Tongariro Fly Fishing Expedition 
This morning your guide will collect you from the Lodge for an exciting day exploring the Tongariro River and its tributaries. Trophy trout over 10lbs are landed by Tongariro Lodge guests each year, so keep those camera batteries charged and ready.

Any non-fishing companions travelling with you are blessed with an outdoor lover's paradise right at the doorstep. One of the world's greatest one day walks, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, is within easy reach. There is also a gentle riverside walking and biking trail accessible directly from the lodge.

Enjoy your final morning in Tūrangi today before you leave the river behind and travel back to Auckland.

If time allows you can explore parks and green spaces for picnics and leisurely strolls, or enjoy the waterfront while taking in scenic views. Local markets and community events reflect the city's diverse culture, and various walking trails lead to viewpoints that connect you with nature. For a change of pace, nearby islands offer tranquil beaches and lush landscapes to discover. Engaging with the local art scene through street art and galleries provides insight into the city's creative spirit. With a range of opportunities to relax and explore, there's much to discover.

Approximate Distance: 325 km | 201 miles  Total Driving Time: 4 hours

Accommodation: Auckland - 1 Night

"Haere rā" Goodbye! and Bon Voyage! Today we say farewell. We take care of your transfer to Napier Airport where you will board your onward flight to Auckland, taking with you the magical memories of a truly exceptional New Zealand holiday.

We know you will flyfishing in the North Island and our promise is to make your travels through New Zealand as hassle-free and hospitable as possible - ensuring that today you leave with a memory card full of photos, and huge smiles on your faces when recalling your time in New Zealand! Have a great homeward journey, farewell and hope to see you again soon in Aotearoa, New Zealand.

Before you arrive in NZ...

Practicing your basic casting techniques before arriving in New Zealand will allow you to maximise the many opportunities to catch "the big one". This will help to prevent excessive false casts which could spook your target unnecessarily. New Zealand trout can be very unforgiving of poorly presented flies!

Felt-soled boots are prohibited for use by freshwater anglers in New Zealand. The felt may harbour microscopic waterborne pests, particularly didymo which is a major concern here. MAF Biosecurity New Zealand also requires all used freshwater fishing equipment brought into New Zealand to be clean and dry.