With three-quarters of a million rainbow and brown trout spawning in the Tongariro River every year, their chances of landing one are pretty good.
Tongariro River
Flowing north from the snow-clad peaks of Tongariro National Park, through the picturesque town of Turangi, the pristine Tongariro River is one of the world’s best places to catch trout.
There are year-round 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.
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 Taupo.
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.
At the Tongariro National Trout Centre you can get an up-close look at hatchlings and iridescent rainbow trout at the underwater viewing station, or see the beautiful endangered native Whio (blue duck).
Getting to the Tongariro River
The Tongariro River rises in Tongariro National Park, flows down through Turangi and enters Lake Taupo. You can access the Tongariro River Trail and many fishing locations from Turangi.
Things to do: Tongariro River
Tongariro River map
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Hiking guides & transport
Tongariro National Park
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.
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Lake Taupo
At the heart of New Zealand’s central volcanic plateau sits the largest freshwater lake in Australasia, Lake Taupo.
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Pureora Forest Park
The 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.
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Geothermal
Lying on a volcanic plateau above a vast underground lake of magma, Taupo is alive with astonishing geothermal activity.
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