Lower Waihou River

Fish & Game has recently initiated and co-ordinated an extensive fencing and replanting programme of the river involving some seventy kilometers which will return this area to its former glory.

Access Points

1. Thames Wharf
   Boat ramp located at main Thames Wharf at southern end of township.
2. Kopu Boat Ramp, opp. Quay Street, Kopu
   Boat ramp located off the true right hand bank of Waihou in industrial area.
3. Turua
   Boat ramp located off Piako Road in middle of Turua township.
4. Matatoki
   Foot access over private land at end Matatoki Road. Legal access available but easier access is obtained with landowners permission.
5. Matatoki
   Foot access over private land at end of Wainui Road. Permission required.
6. Wharf Road, Puriri
   Foot and Vehicular access – From Puriri, take Station Road to Wharf Road for access to Waihou River.
7. Turua
   Foot access to Waihou River at end of Huirau Road.
8. Turua
   Foot access at end of Gumtown Road.
9. Hikataia
   Foot and vehicular access off Puna and Wharepoa Roads west of Hikataia.
10. Netherton Bend
    Foot access from Robinson Road, approximately 7km from Paeroa - Thames SH26, then Ferry Road, landowner permission required.
11. Rangiora Road
    Foot access from Rangiora Road, approximately 4km north of Paeroa - Thames SH26 but landowner permission required.
12. Waimaire Bend
    Vehicular and foot access but landowner permission required to obtain easy access off Old Main Road then Rangiora Road approximately 3km northwest of Paeroa on SH2.
13. Opposite the Maritime Park Museum on SH2 before Paeroa
    Boat ramp off Hubbard Road, just off SH2  next to main Waihou River bridge.
14. Captain Cook Landing
    Just off SH2 on Netherton-Thames Road. Boat access to Waihou River sites.
15. Te Aroha
    Boat ramp located just downstream of main road bridge off Honi Street and Lawrence Ave.