TONGARIRO LODGE
Destination Overview
When luxury world class fly fishing lodges come to mind, New Zealand’s Tongariro Lodge is probably the destination that most knowledgeable fly fishermen think of. It’s located on the banks of the famous Tongariro Rver and provides a level of luxury and service that sets a high bar that other lodges find hard to reach.
It’s history is legendary and has been written about in most angling magazines ever since Zane Gray wrote about it in the middle of the last century. Since then its been visited by many legendary celebrities that have included President Jimmy Carter, The Queen Mother, Robert Mitchum, Liam Neeson, and Larry Hagmen to name a few.
At a Glance
Target Fish: Brown and Rainbow trout
Location: Turangi, North Island NZ
Seasons: October through April for trout. May through September for land locked Steelhead.
Nearest Airport: Taupo, North Island NZ
Electricity: 230 volts
Documents needed: Passport
Located next to Tongariro National Park, the lodge was established in 1982 by legendary angler and guide Tony Hayes it has earned an excellent reputation for gourmet dining, the finest accommodation, quality outdoor activities and the most experienced fly-fishing guides in New Zealand. It’s a lodge run by anglers for anglers . . . a true bucket list destination.
Fishing Program
Founded by legendary angler and guide Tony Hayes in 1982 Tongariro Lodge guides have catered for the world’s who’s who of fly-fishing.
They provide access to over 40 rivers and 3 Lakes. They offer the most diverse range of rainbow and brown trout fly fishing opportunities in New Zealand. From the lodge you will have access to Tongariro River and Lake Taupo Tributaries, central North Island wilderness rivers and streams accessed by 4wd, heli-fishing and overnight camp trips, wilderness raft trips and lake fishing.
The Tongariro River is the most famous fly fishing river in New Zealand. Every year over 50 thousand prime-conditioned trout migrate up this river from Lake Taupo, providing truly amazing year-round fly fishing opportunity. Additionally the lodge has access to many rivers that run through private property. The lodge runs its own rafts, four wheel drive vehicles and boats, and has some of the best back country nymph and dry fly fishing for sighted browns and rainbows to be found anywhere.
From October to April, guests enjoy this ultimate New Zealand wilderness fly fishing experience by helicoptering from the Lodge to large areas of private land that provide anglers with access to fourteen wilderness rivers, and includes up to 60 kilometres of trophy fly-fishing for brown and rainbows.
A helicopter fishing day begins with you and your guide being picked up at the lodge in Turangi on the shore of Lake Taupo and then being transported over some of New Zealand’s most majestic scenery to the bank of a beautiful river that is yours to enjoy for the day. You will, along with your guide, fish your way upstream sight fishing for some of the largest trout you have ever seen. At the end of the day the helicopter will pick you up and take you back to the lodge just in time for drinks and dinner.
Best Fly Fishing Seasons
October to December (spring): Fish are less spooky and there are fewer fishermen. Some big spawners, remain in the system and have not returned to the lake.
January to March (summer): Prime dry fly fishing. Best time to helicopter into back country.
April to May (Fall): Trout are in prime condition. Fishing pressure is light. Some spawning runs have started.
June to September: Land locked Steelhead in Lake Taupo tributaries.
Accommodations
The rustic architecture of the lodge is exactly what you would expect of one of the most legendary lodges in the world. The heart of Taupo lodge is the main building with its rustic lounges, comfortable sofas, open fires and trout fishing trophies of the past adorning the walls.
The true atmosphere of the Lodge is best experienced in front of an open fire over a four course meal carefully prepared by the lodge’s chefs and served in style by the friendly staff in one of two pleasant dining rooms. The lodge also offers an all-weather tennis court and a secluded spa pool, heli-pad and free wireless internet.
Three accommodation types are available, each with private bath facilities and its own secluded sunny terrace with views of the Tongariro River or mountains beyond. All rooms have daily maid service and include free wi fi.
2-5 Bedroom Villas
Beautifully furnished 2-5 bedroom villas provide plenty of space. Enjoy separate, open plan lounge and dining areas with snug armchairs, deep drapes and sky television. Each villa has private bathroom and ensuite facilities, a full kitchen, laundry and free Wi-Fi. King beds and a variety of bedding options are available upon request
Executive Villa
The most luxurious 5-star villa, with 4 bedrooms, all with their own ensuite, expansive decks with an outside fireplace. Magnificently appointed furnishings and entertainment appliances. Fine art and Maori artifacts adorn the walls of this exquisite Villa. High-speed Wi-Fi provided.
One Bed Chalets
For a less expensive option guests can enjoy the original Tongariro Lodge chalets. These are stylish and well appointed one bedroom chalets with quality furnishings, comfortable king beds (other bedding configurations available upon request) tea and coffee making facilities, television,fridge and free Wi-Fi. Each chalet has a drying cupboard for skis or waders.
On Site Amenities and Activities Include
Satellite TV and VCR
Wi-Fi/internet access
Guest Lounge
Helicopter Pad
Spa Pool
Tennis Court
Bar
Pool Table
Gourmet Food
Helicopter hiking, skiing, nature viewing
The dining experience at the lodge captures the essence of the bold vibrant surroundings, serving the best of New Zealand game and traditional foods. Hearty breakfast and luncheon are provided at the lodge with box lunches provided if you will be away fishing for the day. Dinners are legendary. The dining room is open to casual diners also on reservation.
Getting There
Daily flights to Taupo connect with international flights into Auckland.
Transfers available from Taupo, Rotorua and Auckland airports to Turangi.
Rates
Rates are per person double occupancy.
Includes: all meals. a 3 course gourmet dinner and picnic lunch daily. Accommodation, free wi fi and expert guiding with one of Tongariro Lodge’s top guides.
Not included: New Zealand Helicopter and raft fishing (need to be reserved in advance) and fishing licenses which are additional to package rates.
4140Executive Villa
7 nights/6 days fishing: $4,877. per person
6 nights/5 days fishing: $4,140. per person
5 nights/4 days fishing: $3,403. per person
4 nights/3 days fishing: $2,667. per person
3 nights/2 days fishing: $1,930. per person
2-5 Bedroom Villa
7 nights/6 days fishing: $3,927. per person
6 nights/5 days fishing: $3,326. per person
5 nights/4 days fishing: $2,775. per person
4 nights/3 days fishing: $2,124. per person
3 nights/2 days fishing: $1,523. per person
1 Bedroom Chalet
7 nights/6 days fishing: $3,278. per person
6 nights/5 days fishing: $2,770. per person
5 nights/4 days fishing: $2,261. per person
4 nights/3 days fishing: $1,753. per person
3 nights/2 days fishing: $1,245. per person
To book any of our trips give us a call to start the process