Combining time on both the North and South Islands of New Zealand gives anglers the chance to experience the very best of the country’s legendary trout fisheries. On the North Island, Poronui Lodge and Tongariro Lodge provide access to iconic rivers, remote backcountry streams, and heli-fishing opportunities, all paired with first-class accommodations. On the South Island, Cedar Lodge and Owen River Lodge deliver two distinct styles of fishing: remote heli-access wilderness waters and classic sight-fishing for large browns in some of the most scenic valleys in the world. Together, this combination offers a full spectrum of New Zealand trout fishing while also making the most of the time and effort it takes to travel to the Southern Hemisphere.
Why A Combo Trip?
A single lodge stay in New Zealand can deliver a great fishing experience, but combining lodges across the two islands maximizes variety and allows anglers to experience the different personalities of each region. The volcanic landscapes and freestone rivers of the North Island contrast beautifully with the glaciated valleys and high-country streams of the South Island. By splitting time between islands, anglers enjoy a wide range of fishing scenarios, from walk-and-wade opportunities in untouched wilderness to heli-fishing for large, wild browns in remote crystal-clear streams. For traveling companions, these lodges also deliver incredible non-angling activities, from hiking and horseback riding to wine tours and cultural excursions. This balance makes a New Zealand combo trip as rewarding for couples and families as it is for hardcore anglers.
Who Is This Trip For?
This type of program is ideal for anglers who want to maximize their time in New Zealand, especially if one expects it will be their only visit to the country. It works equally well for couples, families, and groups of friends, with luxury lodge settings and a wealth of non-angling activities ensuring that everyone is comfortable and engaged. Whether you are a first-time visitor to New Zealand looking for a comprehensive introduction or a seasoned angler returning for a deeper dive into the country’s fisheries, a North–South Island combo offers the most complete way to experience it all in a single itinerary.
Fishing Details
It is important to note that anglers can begin their trip on either island! Additionally, stays at any of the lodges can be customized to any length.
On the North Island, Poronui Lodge offers access to 16,000 private acres of wilderness fishing in the Taharua Valley, as well as heli-trips into remote mountain headwaters. With more than 25 miles of water on the property alone, anglers can expect days of stalking wild browns and rainbows in a pristine backcountry setting. Tongariro Lodge, meanwhile, sits directly on the famous Tongariro River near Lake Taupo and is perfectly positioned for access to over 40 rivers and 3 lakes. The area is known for its legendary runs of both rainbow and brown trout. Guests can enjoy everything from walk-and-wade fishing on the Tongariro to helicopter access into untouched rivers.
On the South Island, Cedar Lodge delivers a truly intimate fishing experience, with just eight anglers hosted at a time and daily heli-fishing into some of the most remote and beautiful streams in the region. Guests target both rainbow and brown trout in rivers that vary from high-elevation freestones to lowland streams. Owen River Lodge offers a different style, set on a private property in the Nelson Lakes District with drive-to access to more than 25 rivers within an hour of the lodge. Known as one of the finest sight-fishing destinations in the world, Owen River is famous for its large, trophy-size browns and its relaxed luxury atmosphere. Together, these lodges provide anglers with a complete South Island experience—remote wilderness fishing balanced by world-class sight-fishing close to home base.
Sample Itinerary:
- Day 1: Arrive in Auckland and connect to Taupo. Transfer to Poronui Lodge.
- Day 2: Full day of guided fishing on Poronui’s private waters in the Taharua Valley.
- Day 3: Heli-fishing into remote North Island backcountry rivers. Experience wilderness headwaters with trophy trout.
- Day 4: Full day of fishing on Poronui’s extensive on-property waters or additional heli-fishing.
- Day 5: Guided fishing day with opportunities for walk-and-wade access to smaller streams and tributaries. Overnight at Poronui Lodge.
- Day 6: Travel day. Depart Poronui, transfer back to Taupo domestic flight to Queenstown. Arrive at Cedar Lodge in the afternoon. Settle in and enjoy lodge hospitality.
- Day 7: First day of heli-fishing from Cedar Lodge. Explore South Island backcountry rivers with abundant browns and rainbows.
- Day 8: Heli-fishing into another drainage system. Sight-fish for trophy trout in crystal-clear alpine streams.
- Day 9: Final day of guided fishing, taking advantage of the lodge’s helicopter program for one last adventure into remote water.
- Day 10: Depart Cedar Lodge for Queenstown or Christchurch and begin journey home or onward travel.
Due to the custom nature of combination packages, rates and inclusions/exclusions vary by programs and length of stay. If you would like to learn more, Please Contact Yellow Dog for details.
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