Last updated July 2026
The Tokomaru River offers mountain-style trout fishing in the Tararua foothills south of Palmerston North. It rises on the western side of the Tararua Range and flows west to cross SH57 between Palmerston North and Shannon. The headwaters feature high-quality surroundings with deep pools and large boulders, providing fishing for good-sized but few fish in a rugged setting.
Practical Information
| River | Tokomaru River, south of Palmerston North |
| Target species | Brown trout (mainstay); some rainbow trout |
| Distance from Palmerston North | About 20 km via SH57 to Tokomaru |
| Setting | Mountain-style stream from Tararua Range foothills |
| Licence | Fish & Game New Zealand licence required |
| Best for | Fit fly anglers seeking quieter, rugged stream fishing |
About the Tokomaru River
The Tokomaru River provides a smaller, more intimate fishing experience than larger regional rivers. The headwaters deliver mountain-style fishing in high-quality surroundings, though the rugged terrain with deep pools and numerous large boulders makes progress difficult and suits only fit anglers.
Downstream of SH57, fishing can be rewarding with patience and careful stalking. The river is best fished early in the season. Brown trout form the mainstay of the fishery in this district, with some rainbow trout also present.
Access to the upper reaches is via the Horseshoe Bend Recreation Reserve off Tokomaru Road. This area lies outside the Forest Park and requires permission. Downstream sections also require landowner permission in places. Public access points exist at bridges and reserves along the SH57 route.
Fishing Techniques and Access
Fly-fishing is the most productive method on the Tokomaru River. Standard mountain-stream approaches such as nymphing with weighted patterns suit the deeper runs and pools, while dry flies work when fish are rising. Light tackle is appropriate for the river size. Polarised sunglasses help spot fish in clearer water.
Respect all access rules. Obtain landowner permission where required and check current river conditions. A valid Fish & Game licence is mandatory for all freshwater fishing.
What Visitors Often Say
Anglers describe the Tokomaru as a quieter, more rugged alternative to better-known rivers, with the mountain-stream character and bush setting as main attractions. It suits those seeking smaller-scale, intimate fishing rather than larger open water.
Practical observations include the need for a current Fish & Game licence, respect for private land and permissions, checking river levels after rain, and the value of polarised sunglasses for spotting fish in clearer water. The upper sections demand fitness due to boulders and pools.
Where to Learn More
Fish & Game New Zealand: official details on the Tokomaru River and Wellington region fishing regulations.
LAWA: current water quality and river flow monitoring data for the region.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Tokomaru River?
It rises in the Tararua Range and crosses SH57 about 20 km south of Palmerston North, between Palmerston North and Shannon.
Do I need a licence?
Yes, a current Fish & Game New Zealand licence is required for all freshwater fishing.
What species are present?
Brown trout are the mainstay, with some rainbow trout also present.
How does it compare to the Pohangina River?
The Tokomaru is smaller and more rugged with fewer fish but good-sized specimens in a mountain-style setting.
What techniques work best?
Fly-fishing is most productive, including nymphing and dry fly methods. Careful stalking suits the clearer water.
What access rules apply?
Upper reaches via Horseshoe Bend Recreation Reserve require permission. Landowner permission is needed on private sections downstream of SH57.
When is the best time to fish?
Early in the season is recommended. Always check current Fish & Game Wellington region regulations for season dates and rules.
Is the river suitable for beginners?
The rugged upper sections suit fit, experienced anglers. Downstream areas may offer more accessible options with careful approach.
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