Nov, 2013: Tongariro Lodge is a well-established operation based in Turangi on the southern end of Lake Taupo. This very large North Island lake has incredible numbers of rainbows that feed into the lake’s many tributaries. We have worked with Tongariro longer than any other lodge in New Zealand, and it continues to provide memorable angling experiences.

The lodge has ten comfortable chalets and several larger villas up to 4-bedrooms/4-bathrooms, which are perfect for small parties. The staff is very friendly and enthusiastic with quality New Zealand cuisine featured. Walking into the main lodge is a step back in history with fishing photos of many friends and clients dating back 25 years. The lodge owner, Tony Hayes, is an old friend of Frontiers, and I have had some of my very best days on New Zealand waters with Tony and his guides. After a terrific dinner, we were looking forward to our first day of fishing and it was exceptional!

We took a very short 10-minute helicopter flight that put us on a beautiful back-country river with lots of large rainbows. Our guide said that it would have taken four days to hike in there, which illustrates the value of the choppers! The day was magical, and Kristene landed her first two New Zealand trout in the crystal clear streams!

Tongariro Lodge offers a wide range of angling opportunities from back-country streams to the Taupo tributaries, the larger Tongariro River and in the lakes. There are float trips and overnight camping options too… making it a great place to explore the fine fishing on the North Island. We believe that our clients should definitely fish both islands when coming to New Zealand. While some are attracted to the South, the North Island is very special with prolific streams and a longer season… not to mention great lodges and exceptional guides! This was a perfect time to be in New Zealand before summer really sets in and we had the streams to ourselves.

By: Mike Jr. and Kristene Fitzgerald