+64 277 777 3255
info@stoneflylodge.co.nz
BUCKET LIST FLY FISHING
Trophy brown trout in pristine backcountry rivers and streams, deep within Kahurangi National Park
10lb+
POSSIBLE TROPHY TROUT
30+
RIVERS & STREAMS
1,000,000
ACRES OF WILDERNESS
4-5lb
AVERAGE CATCH SIZE
Orvis Endorsed Fly Fishing Lodge
Orvis Endorsed lodges represent the best fly fishing experiences in the world — properties in exceptional fishing areas with a reputation for superior service and experienced guides. Stonefly Lodge is the only Orvis-endorsed lodge on New Zealand's South Island, and one of the most highly accredited fly fishing lodges in the country.
THE ULTIMATE EXPERIENCE
Heli-Fishing
Fly into Kahurangi National Park — New Zealand's second largest, with one million acres of pristine wilderness. Access rivers and streams that would take four days to walk to. No roads. No crowds. Just you, your guide, and trophy trout.
A DAY UNLIKE ANY OTHER
The Drop
Touch down on a remote river beat, a rocky creek bed surrounded by native bush, accessible only by air. The river is yours for the day. No other anglers. Just you, your guide, and crystal-clear water.
The Catch
Average catches run 4-5lb, with 8lb+ fish common. The chance of a trophy 10lb brown is never far away. Catch and release — these fish will be here for the next angler.
The Liftoff
Your helicopter lifts off from Stonefly's private helipad, soaring over valleys and mountain ranges into Kahurangi National Park. One million acres of pristine wilderness.
The Hunt
Spend the day sight-fishing for wild brown trout in some of the most pristine fishing water on Earth.
Wade upstream with your guide, spotting fish in pools and runs.
The Return
When the day's done, your helicopter returns to bring you back to the lodge — just in time for drinks and dinner.
2–5 anglers plus guide
GROUP SIZE
SKILL LEVEL
All levels welcome
Backcountry River Access
Pricing varies by river location and group size. Our team can help plan your ideal trip.
DAY TRIPS FROM THE LODGE
Guided Fishing
Not every great day requires a helicopter. Stonefly Lodge sits on the banks of the Moteuka River, with dozens of rivers and streams within easy reach. Your guide selects the best beat based on conditions and flow rates, so you're always fishing the most productive water. Full-day trips include all equipment, transport, and a gourmet picnic lunch.
WHERE THREE SYSTEMS MEET
Rivers & Seasons
Stonefly Lodge sits at the convergence of the Motueka, Buller, and West Coast river systems — offering unmatched variety. Our guides select beats based on real-time conditions, so you're always fishing the best water.
SEASON
October — April
Motueka · Wangapeka · Karamea · Owen · Buller · Matiri · Gowan · Sabine · Travers
KEY RIVERS
GEAR & EQUIPMENT
WE PROVIDE
✓ Quality fly rods and reels
✓ Waders and wading boots
✓ Selection of flies
✓ Polarized sunglasses
✓ Landing Nets
✓ Gourmet picnic lunch
BRING YOUR OWN (OPTIONAL)
○ Personal rod/reel if preferred
○ Favorite flies
○ Hat and sunscreen
○ Camera
○ Light rain jacket
Helicopters Nelson
OUR PARTNERS
Our long-standing partner for heli-fishing and scenic flights. Owned by the Darling family with CEO Pete Darling bringing over 30 years of experience. Their pilots know every river beat in Kahurangi and have been flying anglers into the backcountry since day one.
FROM THE LODGE
