Lake Namunamu Fishing

Access map
Access map with topography

LINZ topographic maps: 1:50,000 (260 series)

Lake Namunamu is  natural 13 hectare lake with several inlets and good water quality. The peaceful waters have a mirrored surface and there is absolute quiet except for the birds.

A boatshed at the lake contains four dinghies. A toilet, jetty and launching ramp are also provided. You must provide your own life jackets and take great care not to capsize the boat if casting from a standing position.

Lake Namunamu is situated on Ngaruru Station, a privately owned farm on Turakina Valley Road, 14km west of Hunterville.

From Wanganui, take Kauangaroa Road through Fordell, then take Mangatipona Road. At Braemore Junction, turn left into Turakina Valley Road and travel 2 km.

After parking at the farm gate, there is a 20 minute gentle uphill walk along a farm track. Please respect the landowners wishes for no vehicles and no litter on the farm.

See the Lake Namunamu access map.

There is abundant insect life but the fishing can be slow. The lake is up to 18 metres deep and the top 10 metres can warm up to 20 degrees centigrade in summer. Most feeding is therefore sub-surface. The preferred methods are:

Harling: Anglers harl a sinking line or lure. (A large wet fly/lure is towed slowly behind the boat and not allowed to sink far below the surface of the water.)

Spinning: Using spinning gear allowing the spinner to sink before retrieving..

Fly fishing: Casting from the lake edge.

Nymphs: Damsel or dragonfly patterns

Wet flies: Hamill's Killer, Red Rabbit, Olive Matuka, Woolly Bugger, Yellow Parsons' Glory

Spinners: Toby and Veltic spinners in various colours.