With a long sea coast and a plethora of lakes and rivers, it’s no wonder that fishing is one of New Zealand’s most popular pastimes. Whether it’s fishing from boats, jetties, rocks, riverbanks or sandy beaches, or gathering shellfish on the shore, there’s a purpose to the typical New Zealand fishing excursion. Kiwis like the idea that they can supplement their diet with fresh seafood, or kai moana as it’s known in Maori, and it’s a bad day when they don’t come home with enough to feed family and friends.

There are strictly-enforced rules on size and bag limit, with stiff penalties for breaching regulations. Most fishing stores carry leaflets outlining rules, and you can brush up via the Ministry of Fisheries, Mfish (see saltwater fishing). You don’t need a license to fish in the sea, but you do need one to fish for trout (see freshwater fishing). The best places to get advice on local fishing hot spots are fishing stores, who can also set you up with inexpensive gear.