New Zealand

Riverview Lodge

Fly Fishing Trip or Lodge Details:

Riverview Lodge is set within the picturesque area of Hanmer Springs (South Island). It looks out upon the joining of the waters of the Waiau, Hanmer and Percival rivers and to the beauty and presence of the mountains beyond.

The lodge is 5 miles from the Alpine Spa Village of Hanmer Springs, where the main attractions include thermal pools, pamper packages, beauty therapy, massages, forest walks, and shops selling New Zealand products. All are great activities for a non-fishing day or a non-fishing partner. The Lodge will provide a courtesy car to take you there if desired.

THE FISHING: Fly fishing for large brown trout in crystal clear mountain streams is done by carefully spotting and stalking fish and presenting a nymph or dry fly to them. The rivers in the area are recognized for the large trophy brown trout with the average fish well over 5 lbs. Every season several browns weighing over 10 lbs. are caught. John Gemmell, as a fishing guide, has fished the rivers around Riverview Lodge with clients for the past 20 years. His knowledge of the area and its waters enables him to make a fishing safari a memorable one. John, who hosts clients from all over the world, is assisted by Jonathan Greensmith and Andy Trowbridge who have excellent knowledge of the local waters.

Season Information

October to April

Spring, October and November: The fishing season opens on the 1st October. Temperatures are still cool. There is very little dry fly activity at this time, but trout that haven't been fished to for 6 months are usually suckers for a weighted nymph. The trout are the easiest to catch at this time of the year, but one should have a rain jacket in your pack.

Early Summer, December: This is undoubtedly the best time to fish mountain streams in New Zealand. The days are getting longer and warmer and for the first time in the season the trout are looking on top for dry flies. This is usually a more settled time for weather to fish this area, and with very little fishing pressure.

Summer, January and February: This traditionally is the most popular time to fish in New Zealand. The temperatures are high and the water warm for wading, but the trout are more selective in feeding. They require an accurate, delicate presentation to catch.

Early Autumn, March and April: Temperatures can be little cooler. The days are getting shorter and the sun is dropping lower on the horizon. This creates a lot of shadows off rocks so spotting fish is harder.

Rate Information

RATES:
Accommodations, US$296 plus GST, per person per day;
Fishing guide, US$548 plus GST per guide per day (maximum of 2 anglers per guide).
(Rates through April 30, 2012)

ACCOMMODATIONS AND CAPACITY: John and Robin Gemmell who have owned and operated Riverview Lodge for the past 25 years, have five queen size guest rooms each with its own complete bathroom, thereby ensuring that the stay is a memorable and personalized one for their guests.

INCLUSIONS: Accommodation, full breakfast, picnic lunch on the river, complimentary pre-dinner drinks of beer and wine, plus wine with three course gourmet dinner prepared by Swiss trained chef.

EXCLUSIONS: Fishing license, liquor, gratuities, telephone calls, items of a personal nature, etc.

General Information

LOCATION: Hanmer Springs, North Canterbury, New Zealand. About 80 miles northwest of Christchurch.

HOW TO GET THERE: International flights to Christchurch (CHC), then hire a rental car or transfers are available by prior arrangement.

OWNERS: John and Robin Gemmell