River Haven Lodge

New Zealand Brown Trout Fishing

The fishing in New Zealand is unlike anywhere else on the planet. Sight casting large dry flies tied on 3X tippet with 6-weight rods to 10-pound trout in gin-clear water is one of the most exciting things you can do in freshwater fishing.

The Water

Road-Accessible Rivers: 30+ quality streams and rivers within one hour's drive in Nelson Lakes and northern Murchison region

Helicopter Rivers: 20 additional remote waters accessible via four helicopter companies, landing steps from your cabin

Water Variety: Small intimate streams to large freestone rivers, pristine wilderness environments

River Haven's central location at the top of South Island provides unmatched access to New Zealand's premier brown trout fishery.

The Fishing

Sight fishing trophy brown trout in crystal-clear water. Long leaders (14-18 feet) are key to not spook fish. Dark clothing and dull-colored fly lines are essential. Accurate presentations matter more than fly selection—trout aren't too selective if you don't spook them.

Guides position you to spot fish, stalk carefully, and make precise casts. This is technical fishing requiring patience, stealth, and skill.

Target Species

Brown Trout (Salmo trutta)

Wild South Island brown trout in pristine rivers.

● Size: Average 3 pounds, fish 5-8 pounds extremely common, fish to 10+ pounds present
● Season: October–April (New Zealand summer)
● Behavior: Wary, require stealthy approach in clear water
● Techniques: Sight fishing with dry flies, long leaders (14-18 feet), fine tippet (3X-5X), 6-weight rods
● Notes: Gin-clear water allows you to sight cast to individual trophy trout

Guides

Hand-selected team led by owner Scotty Murray, rated as one of New Zealand's best guides. Guides' uncanny ability to spot fish, convey knowledge, and give anglers the edge to catch elusive brown trout is where they shine. Patient, skilled, and desire to make your day unforgettable.

River Haven Lodge

Located three minutes from Murchison in Kahurangi National Park, River Haven Lodge offers luxury riverside log cabins with world-class amenities and comfort.

Luxury Log Cabins

Riverfront cabins with stunning views:

● Beds: Highest quality with Egyptian cotton sheets, goose down comforters, pure cotton quilts
● Climate Control: Air conditioning and heating with double-glazed windows
● Air Quality: HRV (Heat Recovery Ventilation) system replaces air with fresh filtered air four times per hour
● Entertainment: 32" flat-screen TV
● Full Kitchen: Make your own breakfast and dinner, refrigerator, all appliances
● Bathroom: Heated towel bars, oversized bath mirrors with demisters
● 360-degree Verandas: Covered space around cabin
● Gear Storage: Antler hooks for waders and jackets, boot racks for drying

Setting

Native plants surround cabins, attracting native birds for natural wake-up calls. Custom-made patio chairs for enjoying sunshine and coffee. Overlook Mangles River and beautiful gardens.

Private Bar

River Haven Private Bar features:

● Cold drinks after fishing
● Great bar food
● Complimentary beer and wine provided after your fishing day
● Social atmosphere with other guests
● Smoked trout and New Zealand wines

Dining Options

Self-Catered: Full kitchens allow you to prepare your own meals

Dine Out: Murchison less than 2 miles away with multiple restaurant options

Lunch: Provided by lodge for fishing days

Lodge Culture

Ultimate luxury combined with New Zealand hospitality. Hosts Scotty and Leya Murray create a welcoming atmosphere where guests feel like friends staying in their home.

Travel to River Haven Lodge

International Airports

New Zealand has three primary international airports:

● Auckland (AKL) – North Island
● Wellington (WLG) – North Island
● Christchurch (CHC) – South Island

Domestic Flight to Nelson

From any international gateway, catch flight to Nelson (NSN). Air New Zealand recommended—the national carrier.

Ground Transfer

Transportation from Nelson Airport to River Haven Lodge included in package. Lodge located approximately 100 kilometers from Nelson, easily accessed via Highway 6. Three minutes from Murchison town.

Helicopter Access

River Haven works with four helicopter companies that can land steps from your cabin. Helicopters transport you to remote wilderness waters. Flights confirmed morning of, weather dependent. Guides organize everything—just let them know you want to fly.

International Travel Times

● From Eastern Australia: 3.5-hour flight
● From US West Coast: 12-hour direct flight
● From Pacific Rim (Singapore, Hong Kong, Tokyo): ~10-hour flight

New Zealand Customs - CRITICAL

New Zealand Customs officers are very serious about maintaining disease-free status.

YOU MUST DECLARE ALL FISHING EQUIPMENT

Before Departure:

● Make sure boots and waders are absolutely dry and spotless
● Remove all mud, grass, or any other material
● Clean thoroughly—no exceptions
● Do NOT bring fly tying materials (e.g., feathers)

Failure to properly clean equipment can result in fines and delays.

Flexible Itinerary

River Haven Lodge offers flexible packages tailored to your preferences. Contact Front Range Anglers for specific itinerary options.

Typical Fishing Day

Morning:

● Make breakfast in your cabin's full kitchen OR dine in Murchison (less than 2 miles)
● Meet guide at designated time
● Depart for selected river (30+ accessible by road)
● OR helicopter from steps of your cabin to remote water

Day:

● Full day sight fishing for trophy brown trout
● Guides select best water based on conditions and your abilities
● Lunch provided by lodge
● Guides move to different spots or rivers if needed for optimal fishing
● Access to private properties through guide relationships with local farmers

Evening:

● Return to lodge
● Relax in luxury cabin
● Visit Private Bar for complimentary beer, wine, great bar food
● Socialize with other guests
● Make dinner in cabin OR dine at Murchison restaurants
● Prepare gear for next day

Helicopter Fishing Days

● Helicopter lands steps from your cabin
● Fly to remote wilderness waters
● Full day in pristine environments with minimal pressure
● Spectacular scenery during flights
● Return to lodge evening
● Additional cost—guides organize based on your preferences

Multi-Day Excursions

River Haven can arrange guided 2-3 day excursions to remote high country waters with overnight accommodation in DOC (Department of Conservation) Huts. All sleeping gear, safety gear, and meals provided. Access by road, boat, or helicopter. These trips take you into New Zealand's most pristine wilderness fly fishing environments.

Package Rates

Contact Front Range Anglers for current rates and availability.

What's Included:

● Lodging in luxury riverside log cabin (double occupancy)
● Guided fishing (two anglers per guide)
● Lunch provided by lodge for fishing days
● All house beer and wine (complimentary after fishing)
● Transportation from Nelson Airport to River Haven Lodge
● Access to Private Bar
● Full kitchen facilities in cabin

Not Included:

● International flights to New Zealand
● Domestic flights within New Zealand to Nelson
● Breakfast and dinner (make your own in full kitchen or dine in Murchison)
● New Zealand fishing license
● Helicopter fishing (available as add-on)
● Gratuities for guides and staff
● Any fees associated with non-angling activities
● Any incidental purchases
● Travel and medical evacuation insurance (highly recommended)

Deposit & Payment

50% of trip cost due at booking. Remainder plus all taxes due 90 days before trip.

Cancellation Policy

● Cancellation 90+ days before trip: Full refund less $100 fee (if replacement angler found)
● Cancellation within 90 days: No refund unless qualified replacement angler provided
● No refunds for cancellation due to weather, acts of God, or airline/travel issues

Travel Insurance

Front Range Anglers strongly recommends Medical Evacuation Insurance (we recommend Global Rescue) and HIGHLY recommends Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance.

For insurance questions, contact: Kim D'Amico – kdamico@globalrescue.com – 617.459.4200

Connect with Our New Zealand Experts

Ready to learn more about fishing New Zealand's premier brown trout waters at River Haven Lodge? Our Adventure Travel team can answer all your questions.

Rob Kolanda – Adventure Travel Manager

Rob is a Front Range Anglers guide, Sage Elite Pro, and can provide insights on New Zealand sight fishing techniques, fly selection, and preparation for trophy brown trout.

John Brown – Adventure Travel Coordinator

John handles international travel logistics and coordination with River Haven Lodge, ensuring every detail is handled seamlessly from booking to departure.

What We Can Help With:

● New Zealand sight fishing techniques and stalking strategies
● Long leader presentations (14-18 feet) and tippet selection (3X-5X)
● Fly selection for South Island brown trout
● Gear recommendations (6-weight rods optimal)
● International travel coordination and flights
● Customs requirements and equipment preparation (critical)
● What to expect at River Haven Lodge
● Helicopter fishing add-on options and pricing
● Multi-day backcountry excursion options
● Pairing you with compatible trip partners
● Murchison dining recommendations

Contact Us:

Email: rob@frontrangeanglers.com
Phone: 877-935-2975
Visit: 2344 Pearl St, Boulder, CO 80302

Stop by our Boulder fly shop to see New Zealand trout gear, test cast rods, and talk with our team about River Haven Lodge.

What to Bring to River Haven Lodge

Fishing Gear

Rods & Reels:

● 6-weight rod (optimal for New Zealand sight fishing)
● 5-weight rod (optional lighter option)
● High-quality reel with smooth drag
● Floating line (dull colors preferred for sight fishing)
● Long leaders (14-18 feet essential)
● Tippet (3X-5X)

Flies:

Dry Flies:
● Large attractor patterns (Royal Wulff, Stimulators, Humpys) (sizes 8-14)
● Terrestrials (hoppers, beetles) (sizes 10-14)
● Parachute patterns

Nymphs:
● Pheasant Tails, Hare's Ears (sizes 12-18)
● Stonefly nymphs
● Caddis pupae

Streamers:
● Woolly Buggers, Muddler Minnows (sizes 6-10)

Wading Gear - CRITICAL CLEANING REQUIRED:

● Breathable chest waders (must be absolutely dry and spotless)
● Wading boots with felt or rubber soles (must have NO mud, grass, or material)
● Wading belt
● Wading staff (recommended for fast-flowing rocky rivers)

BEFORE DEPARTURE: Clean all wading gear thoroughly—New Zealand Customs is very strict

Clothing for New Zealand Summer (October–April)

Dark Clothing Essential:

● Dark long-sleeve fishing shirt (helps avoid spooking fish)
● Dark pants or shorts
● Dark hat or cap
● Fleece or light jacket (mornings/evenings can be cool)
● Lightweight rain jacket
● Warm socks

Sun Protection:

● Polarized sunglasses (absolutely critical for sight fishing)
● Sunglasses retainer
● Sunscreen SPF 30+
● Lip balm with SPF
● Buff or neck gaiter

Personal Items

Documents:

● Valid passport
● New Zealand fishing license (purchase upon arrival)
● Credit card for incidentals, gratuities, helicopter fishing
● Cash for Murchison dining

Other Essentials:

● Personal medications
● Basic first aid
● Toiletries
● Camera
● Binoculars for wildlife viewing
● Food for cabin breakfast/dinner (full kitchen available)

What NOT to Bring:

● Fly tying materials (especially feathers)—prohibited by New Zealand Customs
● Any equipment with mud, grass, or organic material

Gear Consultation

Front Range Anglers can outfit you with everything you need for New Zealand sight fishing. Visit our Boulder shop or contact our team for personalized recommendations and customs preparation guidance.