New Zealand Holiday – Boating and Fishing

Take your New Zealand holiday to the water

Auckland's inner harbour provides a safe boating playground for all sizes of sailboats and powerboats.

Sailing, Boating and Fishing…

Boating and fishing play a huge part in the lives of many New Zealanders, and the options for visitors are many and varied. Anglers and boaties from around the world to experience a New Zealand holiday focused around the water, whether that be the lakes and river renowned for their fly-fishing, to the surf-casting opportunities on the gorgeous sand beaches, to the deep water and big game fishing off many parts of the New Zealand coastline.

From rainbow trout to kahawai and snapper to blue marlin and hapuku, there is a vast array of species which can be targetted, each requiring different skills, techniques and fishing gear. Virtually all of the coastal holiday areas have boat hire services which can easily include fishing gear as well as a few tips from local anglers.

Dedicated anglers take their fishing seriously. This angler apparently has time for some light reading.

New Zealand's rivers are a favorite with anglers from around the world. Great skill and patience are required to coax trout from their hiding places before allowing them to take the fly.

An excellent starting point in your boating or fishing-oriented New Zealand holiday would be the Bay-of-Islands, in the far north region of the North Island, for big game and ocean fishing, or Turangi and Taupo for freshwater fly fishing. Click either of the above links for information on activites and accommodation in each region.

The Spirit of Adventure trust runs a sailing training program that focuses on building teamwork and confidence while onboard a traditional style tall ship – the Spirit of New Zealand. Participation is definitely a one-in-a-lifetime experience and vacancies are always difficult to secure but within a few days can change a young person’s complete outlook on life. The original ship The Spirit of Adventure was retired from service in 1986 when the Spirit of New Zealand was commissioned. Click here to visit their website for more details.