Fishing
Locals will tell you that fishing on Lake Wanaka and nearby Lake Hawea is better than at the more famed Taupo area. You won't want to enter that argument, but chances are good you'll catch fish if you have the right guide. Fishing is year-round.
If you're not keen on hiring a guide, you can rent fly-fishing gear and buy your fishing license at Southern Wild (10 Helwick St.) or Lakeland Adventures in the Log Cabin on Ardmore Street.
Hatch Fly Fishing Wanaka. If you've always loved the idea of fly-fishing but wouldn't know where to start, Craig Smith is a superb guide and a really nice guy who's happy to teach the basics. You can opt to get dropped in to your fishing spot by helicopter or jet-boat, and there are even overnight camp outs available. Rates include lunch and all equipment, as well as pickup and drop-off. 9 Flora Dora Parade, Lake Hawea, Wanaka, Otago, 9382. 03/443–8446; 027/646–9419; www.hatchfishing.co.nz. From NZ$750 per day; NZ$790 with 2 anglers.
Lake Hawea Fishing & Farmstay. Harry Urquhart has trolling excursions for rainbow trout, brown trout, and quinnat salmon on Lake Hawea. He's been doing it for 25 years and knows his stuff. He even offers a money-back guarantee: if you don't catch any fish you don't have to pay. He also has self-contained accommodation. 03/443–1535; 027/440–3070. NZ$300 for a 2-hr trip or NZ$400 for 4 hrs (for up to 5 people).
Telford Fishing and Hunting Services. Fishing and hunting guide Gerald Telford will tailor an experience just for you, whether you're fly-fishing, including night-fishing and multiday fishing expeditions, or hunting for trophy red stag. Hunting is free range, and you can choose rifle or bowhunting. Gerald has been doing this for more than 30 years and will show you the very best spots. 79 Riverbank Rd., Wanaka, Otago, 9382. 535--6651; www.flyfishhunt.co.nz. From NZ$700.
Wanaka Fly Fishing. Wanaka Fly Fishing provides instruction, guided trips, and wilderness fishing safaris, including a heli-fishing option. Rates include gear, transport, lunch, flies, and photos. 03/443–7870; www.fly-fishing-guide-wanaka-new-zealand.co.nz. NZ$470 ½ day for 2; NZ$780 full day.
