To read the full legislation document for the WCO applied to this waterway click here

Access map

See table

The Manganuioteao River boasts high water quality (from snow melt and glacial runoff), plentiful insect life, good cover from large boulders overhanging bush, deep pools and papa ledges. The sequence of pools, runs and rapids gives anglers a wide diversity of fishable water to choose from.

Pools are productive early in the season, while the rapids and runs fish best during the summer months.

Because the number of anglers here is low by national standards, good fishing areas are always available in very scenic surroundings.

Upper reaches

The upper section within Tongariro National Park is difficult to access.

Middle reaches

About 15km of river is accessible. About 4km north of Raetihi on SH4, turn left into Ohura Road and follow it for 8km to reach the river. The Makakahi, Ruatiti and Pukekaha Roads branch off Ohura Road to the lower, middle and upper reaches respectively.

River access and a free camping area are available at Ruatiti Domain. Bridge crossings also provide access. Please use the table to contact the relevant land-owners before moving off public land to fish.

A large sign at Ruatiti Domain shows the various property boundaries along the river and anglers must get permission from the appropriate landowner.  Landowners phone numbers are included in Fish & Game's Ruapehu Sports Fishing Information pamphlet.

See the Manganuioteao River access map.

Lower reaches

The 13 km before the river enters the Whanganui River is an inaccessible gorge. This is only accessible by raft or kayak.

All fishing methods are popular. Daytime nymphing with weighted flies is recommended. Add spilt shot to your leader to get down to the fish.

Dry fly fishing is favoured for the evening rise which in early to mid summer can be prolific as trout feed on caddis.

For spin fishing, use fine lines and the smallest spinners when the river is slow in summer; larger bright spinners when the water is discoloured.

Dry flies: Coch-y-Bondhu, Brown Beetle, Black Gnat and Twilight Beauty patterns.

Nymphs: Well-weighted Halfback, Hare and Copper and caddis imitations.

Spinners: Small lures such as Veltics and Jensen in low summer water.  Try Zeds and Tobys when the water is discoloured.