The Insider's Guide to New Zealand
Fishing & Golf
Tasman Bay's golden sand beaches and turquoise waters are home to the largest commercial fishing port in Australasia. So it's little wonder that the coastline also draws recreational enthusiasts of all stripes. Many fishers can be found reeling in their catch along Rocks Road in Tahunanui or returning from an expedition in glorious Tasman Bay, which is renowned as one of Aotearoa's best snapper-fishing locations.
Backcountry fishing is also available in awe-inspiring natural locations, particularly the fish-abundant Travers and Sabine rivers deep in the Nelson Lakes National Park. But perfect fishing spots are not only limited to remote locations, and those less confident in going out alone can opt instead for a guided fishing tour or charter a boat. If help is needed, the owners of Seabird Charters, Barry and Lynley Bird, have a combined 32 years' experience in navigating these waters. Aboard the Seabird Charters boat is a full galley, a hot shower and toilet, and a large fishing and diving platform. 45 Tresillian Avenue.
027 245 9283, seabirdcharters.co.nz
If freshwater angling is required, expert fly-fishing guide Mike Kirkpatrick from Latitude Guiding has been hunting and trout fishing for most of his life — and knows practically every nook and cranny of the Nelson region like the back of his hand. A passionate and knowledgeable fly fisherman, he loves nothing more than taking a client into the wilderness to hunt large trout. He will leave no stone unturned to provide the best experience possible. 1/135 Brook Street, The Brook, Nelson. (03) 545 9115, latitudeguiding.co.nz