For our 10-year wedding anniversary, Charles and I decided to celebrate in a way that reflected our shared passion—fly fishing in one of the world’s most spectacular locations. We booked a trip to Poronui Lodge, nestled in New Zealand’s North Island, for an early-season week in November. With fewer anglers on the water and an abundance of fresh, aggressive fish eager to take a fly, we couldn’t wait to get started.
Poronui has an interesting history, which I’ll cover in an upcoming vlog, but beyond its story, it’s a premier destination for dry fly fishing. Set in New Zealand’s central plateau, Poronui Lodge has transformed from a humble fishing camp into a world-class luxury sporting lodge. The crystal-clear rivers, including the famed Mohaka, are home to abundant brown and rainbow trout, making it a dream location for any fly angler.
Spanning 16,000 acres, Poronui was primarily used for agriculture in the 1970s, supporting a staggering 22,000 sheep and 2,000 cattle. In recent years, the property has also reintroduced driven pheasant shooting, adding to the list of world-class sporting opportunities available to guests.
Poronui delivered everything we had hoped for and more. From sight fishing to massive browns and rainbows in crystal-clear water to exploring historic lodges and even taking a helicopter into remote wilderness, this trip was an anniversary to remember.
Watch the full video here:
