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Backcountry New Zealand

South Island
Methven, New Zealand


New Zealand is a land of contrasts, alpine mountain ranges, lush rainforests, pristine beaches, majestic fjords and volcanic peaks that combine to paint a picture of dramatic beauty. New Zealand is divided into two islands and is about 1,000 miles in length (104,000 square miles), a little smaller than the State of California. English is the official language as the 3.5 million inhabitants are of mainly British decent. The indigenous people, the Maori, comprise about 13% of the population and provide a rich blend of tradition and custom that is found throughout the country. “Kiwis” are some of the most interesting and kind hosts you will ever meet, and are a truly one of New Zealand’s finest resources. Enjoying sport and the outdoors are prerequisite for every Kiwi, as evident by the hundreds of organized outdoor activities and tours available across the island nation.

In our opinion, New Zealand is the most gorgeous place on the planet where one has a chance a catching the trout of a lifetime. The rivers and streams of New Zealand are abundant with non-native rainbow and brown trout stocked there at the beginning of this century that have proliferated into one of the best all around trout fisheries on earth. However, a fishing trip to New Zealand is much more than just a fishing trip. Guests of this remarkable country are witness to perhaps the world’s most beautiful landscapes, flora and fauna, culture, people, and of course thousands of miles of idyllic rivers and streams…the ultimate playground for outdoor enthusiasts.


Backcountry New Zealand is located in the small town of Methven, New Zealand, approximately one hour’s drive from the international airport in Christchurch on the South Island. Methven is strategically located at the base of the Southern Alps, geographically the ideal launching pad for a week of fishing and dozens of other outdoor activities. The Canterbury Region is also home to the South Island’s two major viniculture areas, a world famous favorite destination for white wine enthusiasts.
Day trips with Backcountry New Zealand are based in the central Canterbury High Country Region, normally between the Rangitata Valley as the southern border and the Waimakariri Valley to the north. For longer multi-day packages, the guides of Backcountry New Zealand guide everywhere and anywhere on the south island. The beautiful scenery and diverse landscapes of the Southern Alps is breathtaking. Methven, New Zealand is a sleepy town filled with outdoor enthusiasts during the summer season, and is resurrected during the winter months when the world famous Mount Hutt ski resort opens. The areas fished can be viewed at the movie theatre, as Methven served the base of operations for the filming of recent The Lord of the Rings movies.


Backcountry New Zealand offers a very flexible, unique, and economical means of enjoying a complete New Zealand fishing experience. In addition to basis day trips out of Christchurch or Methven, Backcountry offers longer packaged trips for 5-7 day fishing itineraries covering a greater spectrum of what the South Island has to offer. The preponderance of the fishing done with Backcountry is done accessing countless concessions via four-wheel drive vehicle. Helicopter fly outs are possible but not required (or necessarily a benefit) to find excellent fishing conditions and unpressured rivers and streams. All of Backcountry’s guides are members of the New Zealand Professional Fishing Guides Association (NZPFGA), and clients are provided with first class guiding, instruction, and equipment set to one of the highest standards in the industry.

As mentioned, Backcountry offers several different fishing packages each with a different style of fishing and accommodation. Some options are more or less physically demanding and each venue offers a unique and different style and character to best match every clients wants, needs, and preferences. With such as enormous island choked full of excellent angling opportunities, Backcountry New Zealand has designed their program to remain flexible, mobile, and willing to travel in order to put guests in excellent angling opportunities and differing countryside. Unlike fixed lodges, Backcountry can organize or deviate from any given itinerary to a new location if there is reason to believe the fishing may be poor in any given local. This philosophy also ensures that nothing gets over-fished and every client receives a unique experience.

As the majority of the fishing done in New Zealand is site casting to individual fish, anglers are often times required to walk 2-3 miles per day searching for and fishing to individual fish. Not a lot of time is wasted blindly fishing a pool or riffle, rather a continuous effort to find fresh fish and unspoiled water.

The Backcountry New Zealand staff is perhaps the most qualified and experienced anywhere on the South Island. Since their first steps, each member of their team has been working in and enjoying the New Zealand wilderness in many professional capacities. Their guides are a delight to be around and have a never-ending knowledge of their fragile and amazing resource, and its flora and fauna. In addition to a lifetime of fly fishing and guiding fly fishers in the backcountry of New Zealand, head guides Liam Taylor and Nigel Birt have a myriad of professional outdoor and wilderness experiences under their belts. Examples of just a few include positions as heli-ski, mountaineering, kayaking, and rock climbing instructors. In addition to all this experience and qualification, all guides are EMT and advanced CPR certified ensuring that the highest level of safety and preparedness is available to their guests.

Although customized trips and itineraries or simple day trips may be organized based on availability, the following are descriptions of the fishing packages Backcountry New Zealand offers…

“Springs and Freestones Package”
7 Nights / 6 Days Fishing
The “Springs and Freestones Package” is designed to accommodate anglers or more discerning couples with a higher lever of accommodation but not compromise quality in accommodation. Guests spend all six nights in the town of Methven at one of the area’s bed and breakfast accommodations and fish the local Canterbury Region. From Methven, anglers are perfectly situated to access many superb high country waters within close proximity to town. The fishery ranges from crystal creek spring creeks to medium to large freestone rivers.

“There for the Taking Package”
7 Nights / 6 Days Fishing
This is a unique and economical opportunity to get out into the heart of the New Zealand backcountry and still have access to the creature comforts of home. The trip utilizes small motels/lodges in addition to backcountry huts and farm stations set up by the forest service for accommodation. Although “rustic” in style, anglers are able to enjoy some of the most remote fishing venues in New Zealand but still return to a comfortable bed and a well-prepared meal each evening. Fishing time is maximized by overnighting amongst the resource instead of returning to town at the end of each day. Backcountry targets many of the lesser known and harder to get to streams and rivers that see far less fishing pressure. The length of the trip ensures that anglers witness a large array of water types and venue. The fishing style on the “There for the Taking” package is classic New Zealand angling, with an emphasis on spotting and stalking the fish before testing angling skills.

“Central South Island Explorer Package”
5 Nights / 4 Days Fishing
The “Central South Island Explorer Package” is more or less identical to the longer 7 night / 6 days fishing package, only two days shorter. This package is also a bit more laid back and less hurried with an overnight in Methven prior to heading to the fishing concessions the next day.


As mentioned, the spirit of a trip with Backcountry New Zealand is to provide a flexible itinerary and fishing schedule to optimize the enormous and spread out resource. Although the base of operations is located in the Methven area, it is simply not practical to centralize all clients at one individual lodge or facility without compromising convenient access to the various fisheries available. For this reason, Backcountry keeps guests at a myriad of different facilities and styles of accommodation based upon location and client expectations and preferences. From backcountry tents in the heart of the Southern Alps to luxurious lodges or golf course resorts, their operation has the contacts and programs in place to customize an itinerary and accommodation for each individual party. Below is a sampling of the options available…

***The various styles and specifics of accommodation selected have an effect on the rates for overall packaged trips. Rates indicated are general guidelines and individual parties are quoted specifically once itineraries and accommodation levels have been selected.

Boutique Bed and Breakfasts:
This style of accommodation is preferred by couples or folks who simply want to base operations out of Methven with an extra level of comfort and authentic Kiwi hospitality. Privately owned bed and breakfasts are prevalent in New Zealand, and Backcountry has excellent relationships with the best in the area. From all inclusive operations to self contained rental cottages, the B&B options are always quiet and charming facilities close to the fishing areas found in the “Springs and Freestones” package in addition to enjoying a little civilization in Methven.

Beluga Lodge – All Inclusive
Beluga offers you the choice of a stylish Bed and Breakfast, the secluded luxury of the Garden Suite or the independence of the delightfully restored Minke House. All set in an exquisite garden, enthusiastically created and hosted by Beluga’s owner Di Harris. Definitely a five-star option and perfect for couples looking for a little privacy.
http://www.beluga.co.nz/

Whitestone Cottages - Self-Contained
Four classically designed limestone holiday cottages which offer the very best of luxury self-contained accommodation ideal for couples, families and friends alike. Offering all the comforts of home including a fully equipped kitchen and laundry, open plan dining room and living room with fireplace and luxurious possum throws. This is a beautiful and economical option for those interested in a tasteful rental property.
http://www.whitestonecottages.co.nz/

Ski Time - Attached Restaurant and Bar
One of Methven's finest restaurants and bars, including quality accommodation and facilities. Professional staff create a friendly atmosphere in this stunning lodge constructed of timber and stone with open fire places and cozy lounges. Definitely a more casual option for a ‘guys trip’ or the more ‘hard-core’ angler.
http://www.skitime.co.nz/

Hotels and Golf Resorts:
Those looking for upscale accommodations and to play a little golf should consider staying in Methven at one of the following resort hotels.

Terrace Downs High Country Golf Resort
Choose from a wide range of Villas or Chalets nestled in the spectacular landscape of Mt Hutt and the Rakaia river gorge. This 18-hole golf resort consists of a stunning clubhouse, spa, restaurant and facilities. Central to a wide range of activities and close to Backcountry New Zealand's base, Terrace Downs is often chosen by their guests who enjoy the odd round of golf.
http://www.terracedowns.co.nz/

Brinkley Village Resort
Popular with our corporate clients and those wanting hotel style accommodation close to the center of Methven. With 80 studio and two bedroom apartments, Brinkley Village also consists of a fine restaurant, spa, tennis court and modern conference facilities.
http://www.brinkleyvillage.co.nz/

Luxury Lodges and Retreats:
This style of accommodation is for those looking for the most upscale in town and in New Zealand. The opulent five star properties of Grasmere Lodge and Montrose High Country Retreat are the some of the nicest in the country and excellent for travelers who require the fanciest service and accommodations available.

Grasmere Lodge
Where luxury and natural splendor come together in the heart of the Southern Alps, to form what one international guest described as “a whole other world of peacefulness & serenity.” Built in 1858, the original limestone homestead, now the core of the lodge, introduces you to the style of personal pampering that earned the Harper’s Hideaway Report Grand Award in 1998. At the same time this traditional New Zealand high country station (ranch), set amid towering 7000 ft peaks, provides a wide range of outdoor activities for those seeking a more adventurous interlude.
http://www.grasmere.co.nz/

Montrose High Country Retreat
Surrounded by mountains this Alpine style two-bedroom chalet is set amongst a 260-hectare property. The chalet accommodates one or two couples, with superb luxury facilities that include a double steam room, spa bath and full kitchen. You can choose to be self-sufficient or have meals prepared for you. The chalet looks over a lake full of salmon and the occasional trout, as well as the famous Rakaia river gorge. Retreat to this fine private property for a totally relaxing and luxurious experience.
http://www.montrosehighcountry.co.nz/

Backcountry Huts, Camping, and Motels:
This style of accommodation is used for the most angling intensive guests who are most concerned with the longest fishing days possible and least concerned with five star accommodation. Most of these facilities are developed and maintained by the forest service and although “rustic” are comfortable, clean, and close to prime fishing areas. Backcountry New Zealand guides have recreated in wilderness huts and campsites since they were children, and know how to ensure your experience is enjoyable, comfortable and safe. They have a range of camping and hut-based options available, as well as a vast range of camp equipment. This style of accommodation is chiefly used on the more remote fishing packages such as the “Central South Island Explorer” and the “There for the Taking”.


Guests with Backcountry New Zealand take an overnight flight from the U.S. to Auckland, New Zealand. Travelers lose a day crossing the international dateline en route and connect on to Christchurch, New Zealand the morning of arrival. From Christchurch, guests are transferred by air-conditioned vehicle one hour to the town of Methven. Inversely, guests follow the same route on the way home, only to regain the lost day after re-crossing the dateline and arrive back into the U.S. on the same day.


*** The following itinerary is based upon the “Springs and Freestones” fishing package. Note that the “Springs and Freestones” itinerary is purely an example of one of a myriad of services Backcountry offers as indicated in the fishing description. Customized itineraries may be created and quoted based on availability and on an individual basis.

Day 1:
Depart United States for Auckland - usually via Air New Zealand

Day 2:
Arrive Auckland (Lose a day crossing the international dateline). Depart Auckland with Air New Zealand for Christchurch on the South Island. Upon arrival in Christchurch, guests are be met by a representative from Backcountry Fly Fishing and driven one hour to Methven on the beautiful Inland Scenic Route SH 72. Guests will stop in route at the Fisherman’s Loft Fly Shop to pick up fishing licenses and any other applicable supplies for the next five days of fishing. Upon arrival in Methven, guests are escorted to their accommodations at one of the selected B&B in town. Overnight in Methven and begin fishing the following day.

Day 3 - 7:
5 Days of guided fishing and enjoying the wonderful country of New Zealand with Backcountry New Zealand. On fishing days, anglers should expect to get picked up at approximately 8:30AM and returned to Methven between 5:00PM and 7:00PM. Each day guides will access the best rivers and steams in the area based upon angling skill, weather, and water conditions. Drive times are anywhere from half an hour to one hour, and an effort is made to fish a different fishery every day. Continued overnight in Methven.

Departure Day:
After a leisurely morning at the Methven, and perhaps some sightseeing in the area, guests are transferred back to Christchurch airport for the flight back to Auckland. Depart Auckland for the U.S.A. (Travelers will gain a day re-crossing the International Dateline).


Trout fishing in New Zealand is generally has a season of October 1st through April 31st. A small number of streams available to fish do not open until November 1st, however there is still some excellent fishing to be had during October.

Good fishing can be had throughout the season, so there is really no “best” time to visit New Zealand. October until December can be unsettled spring weather, however New Zealand’s oceanic climate can have weather of all seasons any time of the year. Spring fishing in October or November can oftentimes be the best of the season if you receive a warm spell, especially as most trout have not seen an angler in over six months of closed season. Early January is when the majority of New Zealanders go on summer holiday, so many tourist areas are crowded and anglers are most likely to run into other fishermen or experience more wary trout. However, the weather and conditions are typically most pleasant during the summer months of December – February with warmer temperatures and longer days. March and April are also excellent months for taking perhaps the biggest fish of the season and a little cooler weather than the peak summer months.

The following are some very basic generalizations to keep in mind…

· The most trout are often caught when the weather and water is cooler
October – Christmas and March – April

· The best conditioned trout are caught in the late season prior to spawning
End of February – April

· Surface activity with dry flies and terrestrials is best in summer
December – March


New Zealand is the outdoors person paradise! There are literally dozens of amazing activities visitors can choose to participate in while visiting New Zealand with Backcountry Fly Fishing.

Backcountry New Zealand has separate hunting and outdoor guiding divisions within their company that has the staff and resources to run equally impressive itineraries and programs for non-angling clients. Guided non-angling activities are a huge part of Backcountry business, and the same care are quality of service exercised with the fishing program is evident in their outdoor activity program.

Non-anglers or those wanting to add a few days to their fishing adventure can enjoy an endless selection of personally guided outdoor activities based out of the Methven area. Below is a sample lists of numerous, fully guided, and professional activities that guests with Backcountry have to choose from during the summer time. During the Southern Hemisphere’s winter, Backcountry also operates a magnificent hunting operation for species as Red Stag, Fallow Deer, Himalayan Tahr Chamois, Wild Boar, South Pacific Goats, South Pacific Ram, Geese, Ducks and Small Game Animals. Please ask for details if interested.

For those interested in coordinating any guided non-angling activities, please contact David Leake at TailWaters Fly Fishing Company for specifics. We always recommend communicating via conference call with head guides Nigel Birt or Liam Taylor in order to discuss your options and expectations. Some options include:

· 4WD High Country Tours
· Golf
· Guided Walks
· Scenic raft Tours
· Wildlife Tours
· Helicopter Scenic Flights
· Heli Hikes
· Helicopter Picnics
· Mountain Biking
· White Water Rafting
· Arts and Crafts Tours
· Sail / Launch Charters
· Camp outs
· Sea Kayaking
· Jet Boating
· Wilderness Rafting
· Rock Climbing


2008-2009 Season Rates

***All rates based on approximate exchange rates subject to change

***All rates are based upon specified accommodation levels and rates vary based upon accommodation upgrades or deviations to itinerary or property selected. All customized itineraries are quoted individually, however the following rates provide a basic pricing parameter and expectation.

“Central South Island Explorer”
5 Nights / 4 Days of Fishing
Shared Room / Shared Guide………………………………………..$2210US/per person
Single Angler………………………………………………………..$3460US/per person

“Springs and Freestones”
7 Nights / 6 Days of Fishing
Shared Room / Shared Guide………………………………………..$4490US/per person
Single Angler………………………………………………………..$6740US/per person

“There for the Taking Package”
7 Nights / 6 Days of Fishing
Shared Room / Shared Guide………………………………………..$3990US/per person
Single Angler………………………………………………………..$6690US/per person


Accommodations as per package description; All meals; Guided trout fishing; All ground transportation; All required fishing equipment; Fishing Licenses and applicable access fees; 12.5% New Zealand GST Tax


Airfare to Christchurch, New Zealand; Guide and lodge staff gratuities; Helicopter fishing; Laundry service; Items of a personal nature


Backcountry Fly Fishing requires a fifty percent deposit at the time of booking in order to secure your reservations. Final payment is due ninety (90) days from departure. Deposit is refundable less a $200 per person processing fee if written cancellation is received 91 days or more prior to departure. At 90 days prior to departure, no refund will be made unless replacement clients are found. Receipt of deposit and/or final payment is acknowledgement that registrant has read and accepts the cancellation /refund and responsibility clauses.

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