Travel by helicopter to New Zealand’s idyllic fishing spots and cast your line into the pristine waters of the country’s lakes and rivers.

Keen anglers are guaranteed a rewarding experience when they take to the skies to find the perfect fishing spot. An easy helicopter flight from the country’s luxury fishing lodges will immerse visitors in New Zealand’s staggering landscapes to fish the unspoiled, trout-laden waters in isolation.

Central Plateau

Many anglers will say that they feel like they are fishing in a tropical paradise when they throw out a line on one of the central North Island rivers. With their fern-line banks dripping with moisture and mountainous backdrop, time stands still.

Helicopter trips from Lake Taupo into the world-famous backcountry rivers are guaranteed to make your stay even more unique, and create once in a lifetime moments.

Ruapehu
Fly fishing, Tongariro River, Ruapehu

Highlights

  • Premier global destination
  • World famous Tongariro River
  • Year-round fishing

Central Plateau Fly-Fishing

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Rotorua

The months from March to June are an especially good time for fishing in Rotorua as the spawning runs are building and the fish are at their seasonal best.

For the growing number of anglers focusing on large fish and lake fishing, the Rotorua area is a must-visit location. The 'still water fisheries' attract anglers from all over the world and more fish over 10 pounds than any other part of the country.

Rotorua
Fly fishing, Rotorua

Highlights

  • Rainbow trout fisheries
  • Heart of Maori culture
  • Numerous lake-fed streams

Rotorua Fly-fishing

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Nelson Tasman

The 'sunshine capital of New Zealand', the Nelson Tasman region, is located at the northern end of the South Island.

The area is framed by two delightful trout rivers; Motueka in the west and Rai River in the east. Both are easy to access and wind their way south towards the Nelson Lakes area. Here, skyscraping mountains frame larger lakes like beautiful Lake Rotoroa.

Nelson Tasman
Fly-fishing, Nelson Tasman

Highlights

  • Trophy brown trout
  • Pristine Rivers
  • Sunshine capital of New Zealand

Nelson fly-fishing

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Canterbury

The Canterbury region offers anglers plenty of choice. From the air, Christchurch's mosaic checkerboard farms and fields lead all the way up to the snow-capped Southern Alps.

The area is drained by three large river systems; Rangitata, Rakaia, and Waimakariri, all known for their salmon fishing. Numerous smaller trout rivers and streams flow into these rivers, many of which played a role in the Middle‑earth™ setting in The Lord of the Rings Trilogy.

Christchurch - Canterbury
Twin Rivers Fly-fishing, Christchurch - Canterbury

Highlights

  • High country rivers
  • Braided river systems
  • Sea-run Chinook

Canterbury fly-fishing

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Private Fly Fishing Guides

New Zealand professional fly fishing guides offer excellent guided trips from the alps to the sea, around the rivers and lakes. From fly tying to rod and reel outfitting, expect professional advice and support tailored to your specific fishing vacation expectations.

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