Hautapu River

Hautapu River

Description and Directions

The Hautapu River rises in the hills east of Waiouru. Most of the initial flow comes from the Ngamatea Swamp just south of Waiouru where the river makes a left hand turn to flow through farmlands alongside the Main Road South for two kilometres. The river is quite small at this point, averaging only two or three metres wide. The bottom is rather silty, especially in the slower pools, but there is the occasional deeper pool giving plenty of cover. There is a mixture of rapids and slow water that makes for a variety of fishing. In summer, the flow decreases and the river gets quite low. Access to this section is easy from two rest areas beside the road or any of the various farms through which the river rambles. Leading to the Hihitahi Scenic Reserve, is a designated track, which can be used to gain access to the river. While the river flows are normal, there are some good fish in this section. They are all brown trout, averaging 1.5 kg (3.3 lb) but also the odd fish up to 4 kg (8.8 lb).

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