Without natural predators, blessed with pristine spring-fed rivers, abundant aquatic insects, and ideal water temperatures, both brown and rainbow trout not only survived but thrived beyond anything seen in their native ranges, establishing wild, self-sustaining populations that now produce trophy fish averaging 3-5 pounds with specimens regularly exceeding 8-10 pounds.
From the legendary rivers of South Island like the Mataura, Clutha, and Tongariro to the North Island’s geothermal-influenced waters and wilderness streams, New Zealand offers over 300 accessible trout rivers and countless lakes flowing through landscapes ranging from volcanic peaks and native forests to the dramatic Southern Alps and golden tussock high country, all with water clarity that allows for the sight-fishing stalking experience that has become the hallmark of Kiwi fly fishing. The combination of wild, stream-bred trout that have grown wary and selective over generations, minimal fishing pressure in remote backcountry locations, diverse fishing styles from delicate dry-fly presentations on spring creeks to nymphing deep alpine runs, and the spectacular scenery that surrounds every cast has cemented New Zealand’s reputation as the ultimate fly fishing destination where anglers experience trout fishing in its purest, most challenging, and most visually stunning form.
New Zealand; Aotearoa – The land of the long white cloud. Home to Hobbits, the All Blacks and large trout welcomes you. New Zealand is a small but incredibly diverse country with friendly locals and spectacular scenery. With two main islands as fishing destinations – we have positioned ourselves in the South Island, widely regarded as the heart of brown trout nirvana. Our lodge where we host our trips is based in the Central South Island, near Mount Cook in the McKenzie district. We are 15 minutes from the town of Fairlie and less than 5 minutes from our nearest guiding water. We have chosen this locale for easy access to multiple rivers, both lowland and high country. Helicopter options to the back country are also available and if weather dictates – we have access to several outstanding Stillwater fisheries, spring creeks and clear water options.
This is an all inclusive hosted 6 night / 5 day angling package. From Airport pick up to drop off – you will be hosted and guided on some of New Zealand’s finest trout waters. Your professional guides have decades of experience between them and you will rest each evening in your private lodge room with double bed and ensuite.
Each day you will fish local rivers. All of our rivers are accessed by 4WD vehicle and foot. Helicopters can be arranged for back country river adventures and if this is an option you wish to consider, we do request some indication before your trip commences. Lunch is taken stream side and dinners are home cooked and taken back at the lodge. Your hosted Aussie fly fisher package includes a 2 Angler : 1 Guide ratio and fishing being predominantly polaroiding – spot and stalk style – made famous along the pristine clear waters of New Zealand.
All food and drink, excluding alcohol, is included with your fishing package.
Arrive into Christchurch Airport and be greeted by our host. Meet the other guests and transfer to the lodge (approximately 2 and 1/2 hour scenic drive). Enjoy dinner and prepare for the next day’s fishing.
After breakfast, meet your guides for a full day’s fly fishing for trout. Each day will be tailored to suit the desires of the group, accounting for weather and fishing quality by our expert local guides, whilst providing an opportunity to experience the diversity of fishing available in New Zealand.
The central location of the lodge affords opportunities to experience a large number of rivers, spring-fed creeks, stillwater and clear water options each day, with groups often split to different locations.
Each evening, guests return to the lodge and after dinner—tie flies, improve your casting or just relax and enjoy the rural setting.
Transfer with newfound angling friends to Christchurch for return flights or arrange to continue your NZ adventure with new skills.
Airport Recommendations / Please do not hesitate to contact us for flight information or recommendations. Australian anglers will find multiple direct flights from all major eastern seaboard airports to Christchurch.
Please arrive before 4pm on your trip arrival date where possible as this will allow an easy commute to the lodge before dinner. Most (non-Australian) travellers will enter NZ via Auckland and may require an electronic visa (eTA)—you will then catch a connecting flight to Christchurch from the domestic terminal, a short walk from International.
You will be met by your host upon arrival in Christchurch and when the group is together, transferred to the lodge. The drive from the airport to the lodge is approximately 2 and 1/2 hours.
On your final day, you will be returned to Christchurch Airport (CHC) and we recommend booking flights after 12 noon for a more leisurely transfer from the lodge.
A deposit of 50% is required to confirm your reservation. Final balance payment will be due approximately 60 days before the trip. Within 90 days, the deposit is non-refundable unless a replacement is found. Once final payment is paid, it is non-refundable unless a replacement is found by the guest.
Future Bookings: All guests have a 30 day first right of refusal to reserve their dates for the following year. If a deposit is not received in 30 days, the dates will be opened to the public for booking.
