Exploring and finding new rivers to fish in New Zealand

I could write an entire series of books on this topic, but here’s a very brief overview of how I approach exploring new waterways in New Zealand.

These days, I tend to plan my fishing trips to more well-known, “productive” spots. Living in the trout desert of Auckland with a young family means time is limited, and my thinking is: if I’m only fishing once a month, I want to catch fish. But there was a time, not so long ago, when exploring new locations was much more of a priority for me.

There’s a special satisfaction in finding a river no one else seems to know about. The quiet pools, the untrodden banks, and the feeling that you’ve earned every cast. New Zealand’s backcountry rewards the curious angler, but it also demands preparation: good map work, respect for access rules, sensible planning around DOC huts and tracks, and the right kit.

This guide walks you through a practical process to discover and explore new rivers safely and legally. Of course, there’s nothing quite like beating the feet and finding out the old-fashioned way, but this article should help you minimise too many “blank” trips.

There’s a wealth of information available online about most of the main rivers throughout the country these days. The regional information on the Fish & Game website is a great place to start. This article, however, is for those who wish to venture beyond the well-known locations. And for those already doing so — don’t worry, I won’t be name-dropping any spots.

A general rule of thumb for me is that if a mainstem river holds fish, it’s highly likely that any tributaries in that catchment will also hold them. This will, of course, vary due to several factors — but finding out is all part of the fun, right?

1. Learn to read and understand topographic maps

Topographic maps show terrain type, contours, river size and length, tributaries, and other critical information such as tracks and legal access. Exactly the sort of detail you need when scouting new fishing locations.

New Zealand’s official Topo50 series (1:50,000 scale) is the standard reference for backcountry planning and can be downloaded or viewed from LINZ. You can also purchase printed Topo50 maps from most specialist outdoor retailers.

2. Use online topo viewers and offline map apps for route planning

Interactive mapping sites and apps let you overlay tracks, DOC hut locations, aerial imagery, and measure distances. NZ Topo Map (and several Topo50 apps) allow you to toggle DOC tracks and huts and download maps for offline use — invaluable when you’re out of cell phone range.

Before heading out, download map tiles for the area you’ll visit so you can still navigate without a signal.

3. Check access and land status — don’t assume land is public.

Not every riverbank is public. Before you walk in, confirm whether the land you’ll cross to reach the river is public (e.g., conservation land, reserve, or legal access strip) or private.

Herenga ā Nuku / Walking Access provides an Outdoor Access Map (WAMS) that displays public access areas and routes overlaid with topography, helping you plan legal routes to rivers.

If you’re unsure about access, it’s always better to ask than to guess. A quick chat with a local farmer, the Department of Conservation, or a Fish & Game office can go a long way.

4. Factor DOC huts and tracks into your plan.

The Department of Conservation manages an extensive network of huts and tracks across New Zealand’s backcountry — nearly a thousand huts ranging from basic shelters to fully serviced Great Walk huts.

Huts can be used as waypoints, emergency shelters, or bases for multi-day fish-and-tramp adventures.

Check DOC’s hut pages for facilities, booking requirements (some huts are fee-based or bookable only), and any alerts regarding track conditions.

5. Safety and seasonal considerations.

Backcountry weather and rivers in New Zealand can change extremely quickly. Heavy rain can rapidly flood rivers and make crossings dangerous — even experienced outdoorspeople can get caught out.

Always check recent weather forecasts and river flow reports where available and be conservative with your crossing decisions.

Some backcountry zones have specific opening/closure periods or licence requirements. Always check local regulations for fishing seasons and special endorsements. When in doubt, consult DOC or your regional council for current alerts and closures.

6. The fishing.

This will, of course, vary significantly depending on where you’re fishing. However, if I could pick only one rod to prospect with in the New Zealand backcountry, it would be a 9'0" 5-weight. I’d pair it with a reliable Lamson reel and Airflo Universal Taper fly line.

On exploratory trips, it always pays to carry a spare rod (and even a spare reel if possible) — accidents happen.

When approaching a new river, try to find a high vantage point to scout pools, holding water, and potential lies before moving in. Of course, that’s not always practical.

Fly selection in unfamiliar water is where entomology becomes critical. Pay attention to insects in the air and nymphs under rocks. A dry-fly and nymph dropper rig is always a good starting point for prospecting new water.

7. My gear checklist for an overnight trip exploring a remote river

When you’re heading into the backcountry for an overnight trip, packing smart makes all the difference. You need enough gear to stay safe and comfortable, but not so much that your pack becomes a burden. Here’s what I typically carry when exploring remote rivers.

Essential navigation & safety: A Topo map (paper or offline app with Topo50 tiles) and compass or GPS are must-haves. Even if you’re using an app, always carry a physical map as backup.
For remote trips, a personal locator beacon (PLB) or satellite communicator is essential — it could save your life if something goes wrong.
A headlamp, small first-aid kit, emergency shelter or foil blanket, and matches or lighter round out the safety basics.

Wading & fishing: I usually wear waders or quick-dry wading pants paired with good-quality wading boots (the Simms Flyweight Packable Waders and Flyweight Boots are perfect for this style of fishing).
A wading staff can make tricky crossings much safer.
For rods, a 4–6 weight setup covers most scenarios in the backcountry. Bring a good range of dries, nymphs, and streamers so you’re ready for anything.
A lightweight pack or vest keeps gear accessible without weighing you down, and don’t forget warm layers and a waterproof jacket — New Zealand weather can turn quickly.

Camping & multi-day: If you’re camping, go light but stay comfortable. A compact tent or tarp, warm sleeping bag, and inflatable mattress suited to the season are key.
Bring adequate food, a small cooker and fuel, a pot and utensils, and a water filter or purification tablets.
If you plan to stay in a DOC hut, remember your hut tickets or booking confirmations.
Other handy items: a pack rain cover, spare clothes in dry bags, insect repellent, sunscreen, and a few zip-lock bags to keep your phone, matches, and licences dry.

8. Leave no trace — respect the river, its inhabitants, and its people

If you find a gem, keep it that way. Pack out everything you bring in, bury human waste responsibly, and follow proper catch-and-release practices if you choose.
Please keep in mind that many small headwater streams often only support a small number of resident fish.

Final thoughts

Finding new rivers in New Zealand’s backcountry is about more than just map-reading — it’s about planning well, travelling light, respecting the land, and knowing when to turn back.
Use Topo50 maps and topo apps, check Walking Access maps, and if you’re ever unsure, ask the landowner or DOC before heading in.
Factor DOC huts and tracks into your logistics, and you’ll not only find new water, but you’ll also have safer, more rewarding adventures along the way.

Go explore.

 

Written by Ben Munro