Access map

The upper Wairoa has a healthy stock of smallish wild fish (i.e. not released from hatchery stock but a self sustaining population).

Access

Access above the falls is mostly over private land so permission needs to be sought from the landowner. See the Wairoa river access map.

In the lower reaches below the Hunua Falls both spinning and fly work (though spinning as the preferred option). The river is easily wadeable and is a good learner stream for new anglers.Be careful in the pool below the Hunua Falls as it is very deep with deceptive currents.

Access

The Wairoa river can be reached from McNichol Rd (off the Clevedon Rd) in the lower reaches. See the Wairoa river access map.

Nymphs:
Try very small Pheasant Tail, Hare and Copper or Theo's Bomber in sizes 14 to 18. Some weight is necessary for some of the deeper pools and when fishing the major pool below the Hunua Falls.

Dry flies:
During the summer cicada and cricket patterns can work well and in late summer and early autumn Lace moths can be effective in the upper reaches.

Wet flies:
Below the falls try small bully patterns such as a Mrs Simpson or Lord's Killer and above the falls small wee-wets such as a Zulu or Invicta.

Spinners: Toby patterns particularly in black and gold, and Veltic and Mepps in small sizes fished deep.