Flowing north from the snow-clad peaks of Tongariro National Park, through the picturesque township of Tūrangi, the pristine Tongariro River ripples with life, legends and wild, serene beauty.
It’s one of the best places in the world to catch trout. With three-quarters of a million rainbow and brown trout spawning in the Tongariro River every year, the chance of landing one is pretty good.
Tūrangi is the friendly local launching pad for extraordinary adventures—fishing and more—on the river, in the surrounding region and on Lake Taupō.
At the southern end of Lake Taupō, Tūrangi is the gateway to experiencing the Tongariro River. It’s also a convenient stopover for exploring UNESCO-acclaimed Tongariro National Park and the lake’s southern shores.
Framed by native bush, rugged river boulders and volcanic hills, the Tongariro River’s deep, flowing waters—a natural hideaway for the wild trout that attract anglers from around the world—set the scene for other memorable wilderness experiences.
There’s more than one way to catch a fish or to explore this peaceful wilderness. Launch out with the experts on a guided fishing adventure that includes grade three rafting thrills and the privilege of fishing serene wilderness spots that can’t be accessed any other way.
Year-round adventures include guided white water rafting trips for all ages and levels of adventurousness—from families looking for gentle excitement and a leisurely paddle through lush gorges and native bush, to adrenaline junkies after a thrilling, rapid-shooting ride.
From Tūrangi, the Tongariro River Trail is a rolling, family-friendly track for walking and mountain-biking, with stunning views of the river, Mt Pihanga and Lake Taupō. Perfect for the whole family this 15km grade 2 trail is suitable for all fitness levels. The trail follows the Tongariro River past rolling farmland, beech forests and fern glades with spectacular views and picnic spots at almost every bend.
Along the way, at the Tongariro National Trout Centre take a up-close look at hatchlings and iridescent rainbow trout at the underwater viewing station. On weekends and in school holidays, younger family members can cast a line to see what they can catch — and take it home with them.
The Tongariro River rises in Tongariro National Park, flows down through Tūrangi and enters Lake Taupo at Tūrangi. You can access the Tongariro River Trail and many fishing locations from Tūrangi.
A diverse and awe-inspiring landscape born from volcanic eruptions and carved by ice age glaciers, Tongariro National Park is a place of natural wonders and spiritual significance.
More infoAt the heart of New Zealand’s central volcanic plateau sits the largest freshwater lake in Australasia, Lake Taupō.
More infoThe 78,000ha Pureora Forest Park is an ancient rainforest of giant native New Zealand trees, totara, rimu, matai, miro and kahikatea, and rich with rare native bird life.
More infoLying on a volcanic plateau above a vast underground lake of magma, Taupo is alive with astonishing geothermal activity.
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