Who is best suited to this destination? Anyone will enjoy Tongariro Lodge but a guest that can hike 3-5 miles per day and can make good presentations the first time will have better success at Tongariro Lodge.
Where is the lodge? Tongariro Lodge is located on the North Island of New Zealand. The lodge is situated near the southern shores of Lake Taupo on the banks of the Tongariro River about forty minutes by car of the city of Taupo.
How do I get there? To get to Tongariro Lodge guests need to fly to Auckland (AKL) and then to Taupo (TUO), New Zealand. Once in Taupo guests will need to either rent a car and drive roughly 40-minutes to the lodge or take a shuttle for a fee (paid on site). Most international flights to Auckland arrive early in the morning and currently only two connecting flights are available to Taupo from Auckland, one landing at 9AM and the second at 6PM. The lodge asks that you contact them when you arrive in Taupo to schedule your arrival and all guests should plan to be at the lodge after 3:00PM.
When should I go? It is possible to fish year-round in the Lake Taupo Region, but the main fishing season runs from October to May with December through March being prime time. From December to April raft fishing is available on the headwaters of the Tongariro River.
How will I fish? All fishing at Tongariro Lodge is walk and wade with the majority being sight fishing with nymph and dry flies.
Is there wade fishing? Yes. All fishing is walk and wade fishing.
Where will I fish? The lodge fishes the home waters of the Tongariro River and over 40 rivers and three lakes in the Lake Taupo region.
How long does it take to reach the fishing grounds? The Tongariro River is at the lodge’s doorstep, but most fishing grounds are 30-minutes to an hour away by either car or helicopter.
What type(s) of fish will I catch? The rivers around Tongariro Lodge are primarily rainbow and brown trout fisheries.
How many fish will I catch? The fisheries of New Zealand are a quality over quantity fisheries. Landing 3-6 fish over the 18” mark would be considered a great day.
Will I see other anglers? It is possible to see other anglers or hikers. If guests are helicoptering to the backcountry or raft fishing the head waters of the Tongariro River they will most likely not see another person.
What are the guides like? Guides at Tongariro Lodge are some of the most experienced in New Zealand. They are all safe, calm, and accommodating.
What are the physical demands? To be most effective, it is best if guests are able hike and walk three to five miles per day.
Are there any special skills required? Not really, but if a guest can be accurate with their first cast, control the line during the drift and listen to their guide they will have much more success at Tongariro Lodge.
Does the lodge provide equipment? The lodge suggests that anglers bring their own favorite fly rod and reels, along with rubber-soled wading boots (felt-soled boots are not allowed in New Zealand) and Gore-Tex waders that fit well and they are used to wearing. Tongariro Lodge guides can provide all flies, leaders, and any equipment the anglers do not have.
What is your favorite setup for the trip? In the summer we recommend a fast-action multipurpose 6-weight rod with a weight-forward floating line and a 15-foot leader. In the winter we recommend a fast-action multipurpose 8-weight rod with a weight-forward floating line and a 15-foot leader.
What are the top flies? The lodge recommends the use of local fly patterns provided by our guides, although some American dry flies (in sizes 12 to 14) are popular — including Royal Wulff, Elk Hair Caddis, Humpy, Irresistible, Stimulators and Cicada imitations.
What are the options if water conditions become challenging? The lodge monitors the weather daily and in case of high wind or unfavorable water condition they are very flexible on where they can fish. The lodge has access to over 40 rivers across the region that their guides can fish and can often find good weather and water.
What is a typical day like? The head guide will touch base with all clients the day before to discuss guest expectations and wants, then pass the guests on to the individual guides. On fishing days, the guides are on site at 8AM for pick up will go straight to the river. Lunch is served riverside and usually guests are back at the lodge at 4:30PM.
What is the general vibe, atmosphere, and style of the lodge? The lodge is warm, comfortable, and laid back with an emphasis on the rich fishing history of the area. The heart of the lodge has comfortable lounges, open fires and trout fishing trophies of the past adorning the walls.
Is there an on-site owner, manager, or other point-person at the lodge? Yes. The front desk is staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days per week.
Where do we eat, and what are the meals like? Meals are served at the lodge. The folks at the lodge strongly believe that the enjoyment of local foods and wine is an integral part of a visit to the Taupo area. Breakfasts are hearty and fresh; picnic lunch is provided on the river and four course dinners are provided in the lodge dining rooms. Dinners are always served with fine local wines.
What is the alcohol policy? Alcohol is not included in the packages. Alcohol is available for purchase at the lodge.
Where do we stay, and what are the accommodations like? Guests will stay at the lodge where there are three different options for lodging: one-bedroom chalets, two to four bedroom villas and a four bedroom executive villa. All accommodations have terraces with views of the mountains and direct access to the river via Tongariro Lodge private land.
Is there internet and/or cell service? Yes. There is high speed Wi-Fi in all the lodge accommodations.
Are there other activities? Yes. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is known as New Zealand’s finest one day walk. It is about an eight-hour trek across some of New Zealand’s most spectacular scenery. In addition, guests can experience white water rafting, Heli-hiking, hunting, caving and glow worm tours, farm tours, fantastic golf courses and local hot springs.
Are there any other expenses? Guests will need to purchase a New Zealand fishing license and arrange transfer to the lodge. Helicopter and alternative activities will have onsite costs. Please contact Fly Water Travel for rates.
Do I need a visa? Most visiting guests to New Zealand do not need to acquire a visa but will need to buy a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) and pay an International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL). A NZeTA can be acquired for NZ$ 9.00 if you use their ap or NZ$ 12.00 if you do it online. The IVL is purchased at the same time and costs NZ$ 35.00.
Are there any health concerns, dangers, or annoyances? No, but guests have the responsibility to disclose any dietary or medical concerns to Fly Water Travel or lodge staff before arrival onsite. We recommend that guests always consult with the US Department of State and the Center for Disease Control websites for general travel information and guidelines.