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Buller River

Boat Ramps
0
Access Points
0
Species
3

The Buller River, known as Kawatiri in Māori, is a premier fishing destination on New Zealand's South Island, flowing 177 kilometers from its source at Lake Rotoiti in the Southern Alps to the Tasman Sea near Westport. This river is celebrated for its outstanding wild and scenic characteristics, protected by a Water Conservation Order, and offers diverse angling experiences across its length. It experiences the largest flood flows of any river in the country, yet remains free-flowing and undammed throughout its course. The river transitions from a fast, turbulent stream in its upper reaches to a wide, expansive waterway downstream, with its numerous tributaries becoming key focuses for fly fishers. The middle and upper sections are particularly prized for their clear water, beautiful runs and pools, and spectacular, varied scenery.


Species & education

Learn what type of fish are at Buller River and what's needed to catch them.

Find which waters have the species you want to catch

Brown Trout

Brown Trout

Salmo trutta

Climbing Galaxias

Climbing Galaxias

Galaxias brevipinnis

New Zealand Longfin Eel

New Zealand Longfin Eel

Anguilla dieffenbachii


Fishing spots, boat ramps & amenities

Learn how to get on Buller River. Uncover great fishing access points, boat ramps, and all the facilities you need for an unforgettable day on the water. Some locations shown may border or include private property. Always check property boundaries and applicable regulations before visiting. onWater's Public & Private Land layer can help you plan your access with confidence.

Know where you can legally fish on Buller River

See public and private land boundaries along the water, turn on private parcels with owner details to know where permission is required, and find land-trust parcels that offer permitted fishing access.

Tasman licenses and regulations

No licenses or regulations available for Tasman.

Take Buller River with you

The onWater Fish app keeps this water's access points, species and conditions in your pocket, with the tools you use once you're there.

  • Use the map without signal

    Download the map around Buller River to use it offline when coverage drops.

  • Log your catches here

    Keep a private fishing journal for Buller River to find where and when fish are biting for you.

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Water and weather conditions (10 day forecast)

See the best times to fish Buller River and check the forecast before you go.

HY Buller at Longford

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