New gate open-and-shut case for improved access

Anglers now have a safer, year-round access to a popular fishing spot on the lower Taieri River thanks to the goodwill and cooperation of Otago Fish & Game and a local landowner.

Dunedin angler Mike Wu, who regularly fishes the area, says the newly installed gate at Allanton makes a big difference.

Above: Dunedin angler Mike Wu and Otago Fish & Game officer Steve Dixon try the new access gate on the Taieri River at Allanton. Photo: Bruce Quirey, Otago Fish & Game

“The Taieri at Allanton is surprisingly close to Dunedin — just 10 minutes’ drive for some people — but it still feels remote, with beautiful scenery all around,” Mr Wu says. “This stretch of river has amazing structure: deep pools, runs, and willow-lined banks. I come here regularly to target brown trout, and even in winter, it can fish really well.”

The access point at Allanton Saleyards Rd is open to fishing year-round and offers opportunities to catch trout and perch, making it a handy destination when many other fisheries are closed for the season.

After finding the old access difficult due to an electric fence, Mr Wu contacted Otago Fish & Game to suggest an improvement. Fish & Game staff negotiated with the landowner, who wishes to remain anonymous, and installed a new gate on private land next to the public access point.

The result was a safer and more welcoming entry for anglers and the wider public.

“The new access just made it easier for everyone to enjoy this part of the river,” Mr Wu says. “It’s a great spot for a picnic, a walk, or just to relax. This upgrade really benefits the whole community.”

Fish & Game officer Steve Dixon says partnerships like this with landowners are essential to maintaining and improving access to rivers, lakes and wetlands across Otago.

“Access is really important to our licence holders. This new gate at Allanton is a great example of how we work with landowners to secure and improve access points,” Mr Dixon says. “We’re very grateful to the landowner for working with us to make this happen.”

Otago Fish & Game manages around 260 fishing access points on both public and private land. For maps and fishing access information, visit www.fishandgame.org.nz.