Sport & Recreation In New Zealand

New Zealand is a nation of sport lovers, in particular rugby, cricket and netball. There is an extensive range of sporting activities throughout the country, some dependent on the season such as skiing and snowboarding, and others available throughout the year.


Fishing
New Zealand has some of the best trout fishing in the world. Lake Taupo and the surrounding rivers are a popular location, but there are other locations throughout the country. The season runs from October to May. There is also excellent salmon fishing on the east coast rivers of the South Island. A licence is compulsory to fish for both trout and salmon. Deep Sea marlin fishing is popular in New Zealand’s coastal waters, especially off the northeastern coast of New Zealand. Hunting of pigs, deer & goat are permissible year round. No licence is necessary. It is possible to arrange guided fishing or hunting trips, which include transport and lunch. Some luxury lodges specialise in fishing and hunting, and offer personal guides.

Tramping & Hiking
Tramping or hiking in the forests and mountains of New Zealand is a national pastime. There is an extensive network of tracks and backcountry huts throughout the country, run by the Department of Conservation. Trampers should ensure they are well equipped for New Zealand’s changeable weather conditions. New Zealand also offers plenty of opportunities for those interested in mountaineering, rock climbing and caving.

Alpine Sports
Skiing and snowboarding is popular in the winter months. The season generally runs from June to September. There are several locations on the South Island, including Coronet Peak and the Remarkables near Queenstown, Cardrona and Treble Cone near Wanaka, and Mt Hutt near Methven. In the North Island are the two main skifields of Turoa and Whakapapa on Mt Ruapehu. Glacial skiing is possible in the summer months for those who can’t wait until winter.

Water Sports
Water sports are readily available throughout New Zealand, both around its coastline and in its lakes and rivers. There are yachting opportunities in several locations, and it is possible to hire a boat or organise a skippered yacht. Surfing and windsurfing is popular around the country. The North Island offers some of the best locations, such as Piha and Raglan. Kayaking around New Zealand’s stunning coastline is another popular activity. It is possible to hire kayaks or organise guided tours in the prime locations such as the Abel Tasman National Park or Fiordland, to name but two. New Zealand’s coastal waters also offer excellent diving opportunities, especially in its Marine Reserves. The Poor Knights Islands off the northeastern coast is one of the best dive locations in the world. New Zealand’s rivers offer an abundance of white water rafting, kayaking and jet boating opportunities.

Golf
New Zealand offers a huge range of superb golf courses ranging from the world class Gulf Harbour and Kauri cliffs to more affordable local and country courses. As the cost of playing on most courses is very cheap compared to world prices and with the fantastic scenary, New Zealand has rightly been called a golf lovers paradise.

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