Freshwater fishing access in New
Zealand is enshrined in legislation, where the public have automatic right of
access along the margin of almost every lake, river and stream in the country. The early settlers
recognised the need for this right, and made provision for a strip of land, 22
yards wide along every waterway, known as "The Queen's Chain." This is quite unlike the
US & UK and many other countries where rivers
are in private ownership and fishermen must pay for access to freshwater fishing.
Fish & Game NZ have an ongoing programme of
signposting "Angler's Access" points around the countryside. These are
sometimes across private property, so treat this access with the utmost respect
and courtesy on behalf of ALL anglers!
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Where rivers do not cooperate by running alongside roads, most land owners are
quite happy to allow access across their property - if you have the
courtesy to ask! |
Your
Responsibility:
Please leave gates exactly as you find them, and take care not
to disturb stock unduly!
With payment of an
annual license fee to any of the regional Fish & Game authorities, the
angler has the right to fish virtually every lake and waterway in the country,
subject to the local regulations. The only exception is the Taupo area,
where a separate license is required. Despite the unrestricted public access,
the pressure is low by international standards. True, there are busy
angling areas, particularly in the North Island. However, in the South
Island, by getting off the beaten
track a little, it is also possible to stay for weeks, to fish different water every day,
and rarely see another angler.
Freshwater fishing possibilities are almost limitless! It is possible to
spend literally weeks here and fish a different river or lake every day! The more adventurous can
charter helicopter flights into really remote and rugged mountain streams. These trips may
be set up as day excursions, or for longer periods if desired.
Fish
& Game Council Waterways Access Info
"Guide to NZ
Fishing" Menu
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