Some Interesting Fishing Locations in Manawatu-Wanganui (New-Zealand)
Manawatu-Wanganui Fishing Spots – Looking for the perfect spot to cast a line in Manawatu-Wanganui? I’ve compiled a list of intriguing fishing locations that are sure to provide an unforgettable experience.
Pounamu Lake (Manawatu-Wanganui Fishing Spots)
A Stone Forged by Legend
Pounamu, the treasured jade of New Zealand, originates from a handful of spectacular South Island locations. From the northern reaches of Westland, encompassing the Taramakau and Arahura Rivers, to the rugged beauty of South Westland, Lake Whakatipu, and Fiordland, these regions hold the secret to this precious stone.
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The Taramakau River, flowing between Hokitika and Greymouth, is one such source, with the historic gold-mining town of Kumara nestled on its bank. It is believed that many pounamu boulders remain hidden beneath the old gold tailings. The Arahura jade field, renowned for its dark kawakawa stone, has supplied Māori and Pākehā with vast amounts of pounamu. Since 1997, the Mawhera Incorporation holds the exclusive right to harvest this precious resource.
A Treasured Resource (Manawatu-Wanganui Fishing Spots)
South Westland, with its breathtaking landscapes, is another key location for pounamu. The rivers flowing from the Jackson River to Big Bay have yielded abundant jade. This region, marked by its remote beauty and challenging terrain, is largely protected under National Park conservation laws. Evidence suggests that Māori discovered pounamu in this area early in their history.
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European explorers also noted the presence of small settlements where Māori worked this valuable greenstone. The Cascade River, running through the Cascade Plateau, holds a distinct type of pounamu called Tahutahi (snowflake). Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu, the Māori authority for the region, has carefully preserved this unique pounamu. Its first legal use was in 2012 when Hokitika carver Jeff Mahuika crafted 380 pendants for New Zealand’s London Olympic team.
The Many Faces of Pounamu
Pounamu exhibits a breathtaking array of colours and patterns. Māori have a deep spiritual connection to this stone, reflected in the names they bestowed upon its various types. Each pounamu variety, named after native birds, fish, plants, or linked to traditional stories and specific locations, reflects the world they inhabited. From the warm yellow and orange hues of flower jade to the rich green and white tones of snowflake jade, no two pieces of pounamu are alike, ensuring each carving is a unique treasure.
The Legend of Pounamu (Manawatu-Wanganui Fishing Spots)
The story of Poutini, the taniwha (mythical creature), and Waitaiki, a beautiful woman, has been passed down through generations of Ngāi Tahu. Children grew up learning how this legend shaped the natural environment and instilled the importance of protecting New Zealand’s resources. The legend tells of Poutini, who swam the west coast of the South Island, protecting both the people and the mauri (life force) of Pounamu. He encountered Waitaiki bathing in the northern seas of the Bay of Plenty. Enchanted by her beauty, he kidnapped her and fled south.
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Waitaiki’s husband, the chief Tamaahua, sought her out, aided by a tekatekahe (spirit bird) who tracked them south. During his flight, Poutini lit fires to keep Waitaiki warm. Tamaahua found precious stones amidst the charred remains of these fires, his pursuit fueled by love and determination. Fearing the strength of Tamaahua, Poutini sought refuge in Milford Sound, realizing the only way to keep Waitaiki forever was to transform her into his essence. He turned her into Pounamu, laying her within the Arahura Riverbed and slipping past the waiting Tamaahua.
The Sorrow in the Stone
When Tamaahua discovered his wife had been turned to stone, he let out a tangi, a powerful song of grief. This echo of sorrow, known as “He Roimata Tuturu” (My Sorrow Has Been Left in the Stone), is said to resonate through the mountains of New Zealand’s deep south. The legend of Pounamu, woven with love, loss, and determination, underscores the profound connection between Māori and this precious stone. It serves as a constant reminder of the importance of protecting and cherishing this unique treasure.
Pukepuke Lagoon (Manawatu-Wanganui Fishing Spots)
A Sacred Legacy: The Significance of Pukepuke Lagoon
Pukepuke Lagoon holds immense historical, cultural, spiritual, and traditional significance for Rangitāne o Manawatū. In the past, Pukepuke, along with Lakes Omanuka and Kaikokopu, provided an abundance of mahinga kai (food resources) for the Rangitāne people, especially tuna (eel). These lakes served as vital rest stops for Rangitāne travelers journeying between Rangitikei and Manawatū, where they replenished their food supplies and rested before continuing their journey. While Lakes Omanuka and Kaikokopu remain under Māori ownership, Lake Pukepuke’s title is currently vested in the Department of Conservation.
A Rich Tapestry of History and Tradition
The southern shores of Pukepuke Lagoon were once home to fortified settlements known as pa. Mahinga kai, established by Rangitāne ancestors, are still utilized today. Land Court records for the Himatangi Block reveal the area’s importance as a source of sustenance, with abundant eels, fern root, kokapu (freshwater mussels), koko (tui), kereru (wood pigeons), and kiekie (a climbing plant with edible fruits). Himatangi, with its numerous cultivations, was a particularly fertile area. The wetlands, lagoons, lakes, and swamps of Himatangi and Pukepuke once provided habitat for a diverse array of native and migrating birds.
Echoes of the Past (Manawatu-Wanganui Fishing Spots)
Rangitāne o Manawatū oral histories recount numerous battles that occurred in the vicinity of Pukepuke Lagoon. These stories serve as powerful reminders of the region’s turbulent past and the strength of the Rangitāne people.
Looking Towards the Future
As Rangitāne o Manawatū continues to develop their capabilities, they anticipate a future where they are fully engaged in upholding the principle of kaitiaki (guardianship) over Pukepuke Lagoon. This commitment reflects their deep respect for the historical, cultural, and spiritual significance of this sacred place and their determination to protect it for future generations.
Rangitikei River (Manawatu-Wanganui Fishing Spots)
The Rangitikei River: A Lifeline for Rangitāne o Manawatū
The Rangitikei River holds profound historical, cultural, spiritual, and traditional significance for Rangitāne o Manawatū. It serves as a defining boundary of their Rohe (tribal territory), marking the northwestern edge and separating Ohakea/Tangimoana (including the Tangimoana Forest) from Bulls. The Rohe boundary follows the river upstream, where numerous historical sites are located. The river, like many along the coast, was named by Haunui a Nanaia. Rangitikei translates literally to “the day of the long stride,” but it actually refers to the progress Haunui made during his travels before encountering the river.
A Vital Pathway for Rangitāne
The Rangitikei River and its surrounding waterways provided essential access to settlements, cultivations, and mahinga kai sites within the Rangitāne Rohe. European arrival documented Māori traveling up and down the river by waka, stopping at pa sites along the way. It’s no coincidence that almost all Rangitāne pa and cultivations were situated adjacent to or within sight of navigable waterways. Fertile soils, ease of transport to mahinga kai and other settlements, and efficient communication between pa were all facilitated by river access. Early European surveys documented large populations at settlements along the river, including Te Awahou, Mangamahoe, Maramaihoea, Ohinepuhiawe, Matahiwi, and Poutu.
Trade, Communication, and Conflict (Manawatu-Wanganui Fishing Spots)
Historically, the Rangitikei River served as a vital channel for communication and trade. Its access to the central North Island was crucial for trade routes. During migrations of foreign iwi, the river facilitated the rapid gathering and mobilization of warriors from surrounding areas.
The Legacy of Parewanui
Parewanui, a prominent pa on the Rangitikei River, stands as a significant site within the Rangitāne Rohe. It was here, in 1866, that the Crown acquired the Rangitikei-Manawatū Block. Descendants of Ngāti Tauira or Rangitauira, comprised of Rangitāne o Manawatū and another iwi, rest at the Parewanui Urupa (cemetery) next to Wheriko Church. It was at Parewanui that the renowned prophetess, Mererikiriki (II), established the Maramatanga movement, offering spiritual healing and visions. She was known as a Tohunga O Te Wairua Tapu (spiritual healer) and Parewanui became known as the Holy Ghost Mission.
A Meeting Place of Faith and Power (Manawatu-Wanganui Fishing Spots)
Mererikiriki was the granddaughter of Rangitāne o Manawatū Chief Tame Te Panau and Maata Momo, a renowned spiritual healer in the Rangitikei-Manawatū region during the early 1800s. When Christianity arrived in the area, the Church of England established three churches to spread the gospel: Wheriko at Parewanui, one at Turakina, and Rangimarie at Rangiotu.
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In 1850, Te Hirwanui Kaimokopuna and other Rangitāne o Manawatū rangatira met with Crown representatives at Parewanui to initiate discussions about the purchase of land in the Manawatū region.
A Tapestry of Nature and Tradition
The area between Papaioea and Te Arataumaihi (Bulls) was characterized by dense bush growing within a wetland environment. Many small dune lakes, larger water bodies, and slow-moving streams dotted the landscape. Native trails and tracks connected settlements to the Rangitikei and Manawatū Rivers. Upon European arrival, much of the landscape remained unaltered, with little forest clearance.
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Along the river, cultivated areas of Kowhai and Karaka attracted numerous native bird species. Totara, tawa, titoki, and kahikatea trees dominated the native forest along the river’s course. The river teemed with native freshwater eels, crustaceans, shellfish, and ducks, while the coast offered abundant shark and kahawai. The river was originally more sinuous, with a single channel.
Evidence of a Rich Past (Manawatu-Wanganui Fishing Spots)
Maori Land Court evidence indicated that the area was a hub for fishing eels in streams and lagoons, establishing cultivations, and snaring birds. Even when food supplies were scarce in the Rangitikei region during certain seasons, hunters often traveled long distances to reach favored snaring locations.
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The Rangitikei River, woven into the fabric of Rangitāne o Manawatū history and tradition, stands as a testament to their resilience, adaptability, and deep connection to the land. Its waters continue to flow, carrying with them the echoes of ancestors, stories of survival, and the enduring spirit of a people who are eternally bound to their ancestral home.
Rotomahana Lake (Manawatu-Wanganui Fishing Spots)
Rotomahana: A Lake Transformed
In the Victorian era, Lake Rotomahana was celebrated globally for its magnificent Pink and White Travertine Terraces, a natural spectacle dubbed the “Eighth Wonder of the World.” These cascading terraces flowed down into the lake’s waters, captivating visitors with their beauty and grandeur.
A Devastating Eruption (Manawatu-Wanganui Fishing Spots)
While long believed to be lost forever in the catastrophic eruption of Mount Tarawera in 1886, researchers rediscovered surviving fragments of the terraces in 2011, buried 200 feet below the lake’s surface. The eruption’s destruction was catastrophic, claiming over one hundred lives, obliterating villages, and permanently reshaping the Rotorua landscape. The area, now known as the Waimangu Volcanic Rift Valley, is a testament to the eruption’s power, featuring steaming fumeroles, boiling mud, and one of the world’s largest hot springs.
A Lake Reborn
Despite being temporarily drained by the eruption, Lake Rotomahana returned with renewed vigor, expanding twenty times its original size to encompass 2,000 acres. The volcanic eruption, while devastating, has created a new and unique landscape, leaving behind a powerful reminder of nature’s enduring power to transform. Despite the loss of the magnificent terraces, Rotomahana continues to hold a place of significance, a testament to the captivating power of nature and the enduring resilience of the land.
Rotokawau Virginia Lake (Manawatu-Wanganui Fishing Spots)
A Lake of Tranquility and Wonder
Rotokawau Virginia Lake, fondly known as Virginia Lake, is Whanganui’s most cherished lake. Its easy walking tracks, beautiful sculptures, vibrant birdlife, and endless opportunities for rest, picnics, and play entice locals and visitors alike. The ever-changing scenery captivates onlookers, and the lake’s beauty leaves a lasting impression on all who visit.
A Playground for All
One of Whanganui’s favorite recreational spots, Virginia Lake offers a range of activities, including a leisurely 25-minute woodland walk around its perimeter. The lake is a haven for birdwatchers, with its diverse birdlife further enhanced by an aviary.
A Symphony of Colors and Lights (Manawatu-Wanganui Fishing Spots)
The Higginbottom Fountain, a stunning centerpiece at Virginia Lake, is a popular attraction. Coin-operated and illuminated at night, this beautiful fountain gently transitions between colors, creating a mesmerizing display.
A Tapestry of Nature and Art
The Winter Gardens, with its vibrant displays, offers a captivating experience year-round, regardless of the season or weather. Adjacent to the Winter Gardens, the Art Garden provides an intriguing blend of sculpture and garden art, sparking the imagination.
A Culinary Haven
Funky Duck Café, nestled within Virginia Lake Reserve, is a beloved spot for enjoying ice creams and refreshments during the summer and warm drinks and delicious fare during the winter.
A Family-Friendly Oasis (Manawatu-Wanganui Fishing Spots)
A children’s playground adds to the allure of Virginia Lake, making it a popular destination for families seeking a place to walk, picnic, relax, and play. For visitors in self-contained campervans, Babbage Place car park offers a convenient overnight camping site.
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Virginia Lake, with its diverse attractions and welcoming atmosphere, is a true gem of Whanganui, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and artistic inspiration.
Rotorua Lake (Rangitikei Valley) (Manawatu-Wanganui Fishing Spots)
A Volcanic Legacy
Rotorua Lake, the largest lake in the region, is a volcanic caldera, formed from the crater of a massive volcano. Rotorua City, nestled along its southern shore, was named after the lake, shortened from its full name, Te Rotorua nui ā Kahumatamomoe. This name was bestowed by explorer Ihenga, a grandson of the captain of the Te Arawa canoe, Tamatekapua.
A Trout Fishing Paradise
Lake Rotorua is a shallow lake, yet it boasts the most productive trout fishery in New Zealand. Both rainbow and brown trout thrive in its waters, drawing anglers from far and wide.
Rotorua Lakefront: A Destination for All (Manawatu-Wanganui Fishing Spots)
The Rotorua Lakefront serves as a central hub for locals and visitors, providing a gathering place for recreation and entertainment. The area has undergone significant redevelopment, resulting in a revitalized waterfront experience. A newly constructed boardwalk, opened in July 2021, features wider pathways along the shore, extending into the lake, and crossing in certain areas. These pathways are ideal for leisurely walks or bike rides.
A Family-Friendly Haven
Enhanced amenities, such as new and larger playgrounds, more picnic tables, two food vendors, and a new toilet block, contribute to a welcoming and family-friendly atmosphere.
A Future for the Lakefront
Work continues on the western end of the lakefront, including the construction of the Whare Waka, a dedicated space for the Te Arawa Waka Taua (war canoes), and the creation of areas for commercial activities. These ongoing efforts signify a commitment to further enhancing the Rotorua Lakefront, creating a vibrant and diverse destination for residents and visitors alike.
Saddle Hill (Manawatu-Wanganui Fishing Spots)
A Volcanic Sentinel
Saddle Hill stands as a prominent landmark overlooking the northeastern end of the Taieri Plains in Otago, New Zealand. Situated within the boundaries of Dunedin city, it lies 18 kilometers west of the city center, nestled between Mosgiel and Green Island. Its distinctive profile is visible from many of the city’s southern hill suburbs. A lookout on the hill’s northern slopes provides breathtaking views across the plains, with Lake Waihola visible 25 kilometers to the west on clear days.
Dual Peaks and Volcanic Origins
The hill features two peaks: the eastern peak, reaching 473 meters, is the higher of the two. The western peak, known as Jaffrays Hill, rises to 431 meters. Saddle Hill’s volcanic origins are evident in its composition. A base of Cretaceous breccia is overlaid with Miocene igneous rocks, which in turn are topped with Cenozoic sediments. Erosion has exposed a volcanic plug on the western peak, contributing to the hill’s distinctive, breast-like shape.
A Hill Steeped in History (Manawatu-Wanganui Fishing Spots)
The hill was named by Captain James Cook during his 1769 voyage of discovery, along with Cape Saunders on the Otago Peninsula. In his journal, Cook described the hill as “a remarkable saddle.” Pre-European Māori traditions hold that the hill is the remains of a taniwha (mythical creature) named Meremere. The northern and southern peaks were known to Māori by the names Makamaka and Pikiwara, respectively. Early settler maps occasionally referred to the hill as “Saddleback Hill.”
A Legacy of Extraction
A small coal seam on Saddle Hill was exploited by early European settlers, with the first coal mine in the country established there as early as 1849. Jaffrays Hill, named after the Jaffray family who owned the land from 1849 until 1937, was extensively mined for basalt gravel until the mid-1980s. In 2008, a Dunedin City Council (DCC) landscape architect reviewed the visual effects of quarrying after concerns from local residents, concluding that the hill remained “relatively unchanged.” However, this finding has been contested in court, with public opinion largely opposing continued quarrying operations.
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Saddle Hill, a testament to the region’s geological history and a witness to its evolving human history, continues to inspire awe and spark debate. Its iconic silhouette, forever etched into the Otago landscape, reminds us of the powerful forces that shaped this land and the ongoing struggle to balance human needs with environmental preservation.
