Lake Waikaremoana is one of New Zealand's most spectacular and pristine fishing destinations, nestled in the southeastern corner of Te Urewera in the North Island. Created by a massive landslide approximately 2,000 years ago, this stunning bush-lined lake sits at an elevation of 580 metres and plunges to depths of 220 metres. Surrounded by virgin native forest, dramatic bluffs, and mountain ranges, the lake offers a true wilderness fishing experience with crystal-clear water and roughly 100 kilometres of twisting, bush-clad shoreline. Although the lake is used for hydroelectric generation, it remains a pristine fishery with a self-sustaining trout population — stocking was discontinued after 1998 when the fishery proved capable of maintaining itself naturally. Trout were first liberated into the lake in 1896, and the introduction of native smelt in 1948 as a forage species markedly improved the quality of the fishery. The lake can be reached via a three-hour drive from Rotorua on State Highway 38, 2.5 hours from Gisborne, or three hours from Napier — note that the Rotorua road is narrow, winding, and mostly gravel, so allow extra travel time.