Last updated July 2026
The Whau Valley Reservoir is a stocked trout fishery located west of Kensington in Whangārei. It was formed by the Whau Valley Dam on the Waiarohia Stream and serves as part of the city’s water supply. The dam was commissioned in 1967. Fish & Game Northland manages the reservoir as a trout fishery with annual stocking of rainbow trout. All fishing is from the shore only, and a current Fish & Game freshwater licence is required.
Practical Information
| Location | Whau Valley, west of Kensington, Whangārei |
| Water body | Whau Valley Reservoir (Whau Valley Dam on the Waiarohia Stream) |
| Species | Rainbow trout (stocked annually); some brown trout present |
| Stocking rate | Approximately 300 rainbow trout per year |
| Boat access | No boats permitted |
| Fishing method | Shore-based only |
| Licence required | Yes — Fish & Game Northland freshwater licence |
| Cost | Licence fee applies; no separate entry fee |
About Whau Valley Reservoir Fishing
Whau Valley Reservoir lies in the Whau Valley west of Kensington and forms part of Whangārei’s public water supply network. The earth embankment dam was constructed across the Waiarohia Stream, with work beginning in 1967. The reservoir holds approximately 1.8 million cubic metres of water and supplies treated water to a large portion of the district.
Fish & Game Northland stocks the reservoir each year with around 300 rainbow trout fingerlings sourced from the Ngongotaha hatchery. These fish typically average around 1 kg when caught. A small number of brown trout are also present, some of which are wild or residual from earlier releases.
Fishing is permitted from the shore only. Boating and swimming are not authorised due to the reservoir’s role as a water supply asset. Anglers target fish within casting range from accessible sections of the bank. Water levels fluctuate according to demand and seasonal conditions, which affects both access and fish location.
A valid Fish & Game Northland freshwater fishing licence is mandatory. Licences are available online through the Fish & Game website or from selected local retailers. Current season dates, bag limits and size limits apply and should be checked before each visit.
Fishing Conditions and Methods
Water level changes are the main variable affecting fishing success. Higher or stable levels generally provide better bank access and more consistent results. Lower levels can concentrate fish but reduce available casting spots.
Rainbow trout respond well to standard approaches including wet flies, sinking lines and bait. Morning and evening sessions are often more productive than midday fishing, especially in warmer months. Brown trout are less numerous and more cautious, tending to hold in deeper or sheltered areas.
Licences and Regulations
All anglers must hold a current Fish & Game Northland freshwater licence. The reservoir falls within the Northland region, which has its own regulations that may differ from other parts of New Zealand. Bag limits, size limits and season dates are set annually and published on the Fish & Game website. Always confirm the latest rules before fishing.
Where to Learn More
Fish & Game Northland lakes and reservoirs: Official details on Whau Valley Dam stocking, access and regulations.
Whangarei District Council water supply network: Current dam levels, water supply information and fishing rules for the reservoir.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Whau Valley Reservoir?
Whau Valley Reservoir is west of Kensington in Whangārei, formed by the Whau Valley Dam on the Waiarohia Stream.
What fish are in Whau Valley Reservoir?
Rainbow trout are stocked annually at approximately 300 fish per year. Some brown trout are also present.
Do you need a licence to fish Whau Valley Reservoir?
Yes. A Fish & Game Northland freshwater licence is required. Licences can be purchased online or from local retailers.
Can you use a boat at Whau Valley Reservoir?
No. Boats are not permitted. All fishing must be done from the shore.
What methods work at Whau Valley Reservoir?
Sinking line fly fishing, wet flies and bait are effective for rainbow trout. Brown trout are more challenging to target.
Why do water levels affect fishing at Whau Valley Reservoir?
The reservoir is a working water supply asset. Levels fluctuate with demand, changing bank access and fish locations.
When is the best time to fish Whau Valley Reservoir?
Early morning and evening sessions are often more productive. Stable or higher water levels generally improve conditions.
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