Rivers

Our region has many great rivers for serious fishing, sport or fun family days out.

Mangahao Dam in Shannon is home to Mangahao River’s National White Water Centre. Here, visitors with their own kayaks can use the world-class slalom course, and there are scenic mountain biking tracks. Check the river flow by phoning (06) 362 7250.

Ohau River (entry from Gladstone Road, Levin) is great for picnicking and swimming and the Manawatu River has some excellent rainbow and brown trout fishing spots.

Otaki Forks is 20 kilometres east of State Highway 1, take the turn-off just south of Otaki township. The last five kilometres of road are unsealed. It is a brilliant place for swimming in river holes, fishing, hunting, walking and picnicking. It is also the gateway to the Tararua Forest Park, which has some of the most rugged hiking and tramping in New Zealand. Department of Conservation campsites provide river water, toilets and rubbish bins. No bookings are necessary and fees are collected nightly.

Waikanae River runs from the Tararua Ranges to the sea at Waikanae Beach. Here, the estuary is a significant reserve, providing shelter and habitat for local and migratory seabirds. The river banks offer popular walking, baby buggy and cycle tracks, and Otaihanga Domain on the Paraparaumu side of the river is a lovely place to picnic.