Wellington

It is situated within the Rangitikei River catchment.

If you have any questions please contact [email protected] 

To obtain a Wellington Designated Waters Licence click here.

The Upper Rangitikei River Designated Waters fishery

Open Season: 1 Oct – 30 Apr
Methods: Fly and Spin
Bag Limit: One Fish
Fish Length Limit: 550mm (Trout greater than 550mm must be returned).

The upper or headwaters of the Rangitikei River and its tributaries (north of the Ohinewaione Stream confluence, 9 km upstream of the Springvale Bridge) has been designated as a Designated Waters fishery (see Map below).

The headwaters of the Rangitikei River are both nationally and internationally significant as a rainbow trout fishery.

Access

The upper Rangitikei River is quite difficult to access. Flying in via helicopter is the usual option adopted by most anglers, however, there are tracks where tramping in is possible (although it can take one to two days). Another difficulty is the large proportion of land that is in private ownership, and is leased to various operators/guides. Similarly, a large proportion is Defence Force land, administered by the NZ Army. Wellington Fish & Game is currently investigating ownership and access issues.

Previous Designated Waters surveys have shown aesthetic factors (natural environment/scenery, clear water, peace and solitude) rate ahead of fishery factors - reinforcing the notion that anglers are seeking a remote experience while fishing, over and above other factors. The presence of too many anglers detracts from this experience.

Fish & Game has increasingly been questioned about its role in actively managing appropriate levels of angler use to preserve a high quality angling experience. Currently the fishery is managed only on biological factors (abundance and size of trout). Restrictions are imposed on the size (trout  over 550mm in length must be returned), number of trout allowed to be killed each day (limit of 1), the length of the fishing season ( October 1 to April 30), and the fishing methods allowed to be used (spin and fly fishing only).

Stop Didymo from entering the North Island: Please read the attached important information.

Compliance

Fish & Game will have a strong presence in the upper Rangitikei this season. Non-compliance with the new regulations is an offence under the Conservation Act and subject to a maximum fine of NZ$5,000.

Proposed Survey

It is expected a very short web-based questionnaire will be sent by email to all of the Designated Waters licenceholders, to evaluate their back country experience. The provision of an email address will be confidential and is strictly for Fish & Game survey purposes only. Entering a false email address or not filling out the survey could hurt your chances in the future to obtain a back country endorsement.

Wellington Fish & Game staff look forward to co-operation from all anglers and your help in managing this unique fishery for current and future licenceholders.

Further Information (including access): Wellington Fish and Game
P.O. Box 1325,
Palmerston North 4440
Ph: 06 359 0409
Email: [email protected]