Last updated July 2026
Lake Wiritoa is a coastal dune lake located off State Highway 3, a short drive south of Whanganui. It supports a reliable perch fishery alongside popular water sports including water skiing, jet skiing, boating, canoeing and swimming. The lake sits within 5 hectares of park-like grounds managed by Whanganui District Council, with the Whanganui Water Ski Club holding the licence for water use. Access is via Kaitoke Road, and a boat ramp supports small vessels. Fishing is productive year-round with peak results in warmer months, while the multi-use nature of the lake requires anglers to time visits to avoid busy recreational periods.
Practical Information
| Location | Kaitoke Road, off SH3 approximately 5 minutes south of Whanganui |
| Target species | Perch (primary); some stocked rainbow trout also present |
| Licence required | No licence required for perch |
| Boat ramp | Available on site |
| Best fishing spots | Lake edge at the ski clubrooms; Scoutland’s beach at the end of the tar-sealed road |
| Best fishing times | Warmer months, early morning or late afternoon; jigging productive in winter and spring |
| Techniques | Bubble float with worms; spin fishing with red/white Veltic spinners, small Rapala lures or red/pink softbaits |
| Other activities | Water skiing, jet skiing, swimming, boating, canoeing, picnicking |
| Note | Avoid peak daytime hours for boat fishing due to water skiers and jet skis; follow Maritime NZ speed rules near shore and other users |
About Lake Wiritoa
Lake Wiritoa is a 5-hectare coastal dune lake set in park-like grounds south of Whanganui. It provides easy public access for both fishing and a range of water-based recreation. Whanganui District Council maintains the surrounding grass areas, while Fish & Game manages the fishery and the Whanganui Water Ski Club oversees water activities under licence.
The lake reaches a maximum depth of around 20 metres and offers family-friendly bank fishing as well as boat launching. Perch are the main target species, with Fish & Game confirming a good population that responds well to standard coarse-fishing methods. Some rainbow trout are also present from stocking programmes.
Water quality is monitored regularly through Horizons Regional Council and LAWA. Visitors should check current swim status before entering the water, particularly during summer when recreational use peaks. The site includes designated areas for active water sports and more passive activities such as picnicking.
Fishing at Lake Wiritoa
Fishing is most productive during warmer months, especially early morning or late afternoon when perch are active in shallower water. Jigging from a boat can yield results in winter and spring when fish move deeper. Recommended methods include bait fishing with a bubble float and worms or spin fishing using red and white Veltic spinners, small Rapala lures or red or pink softbaits.
The two most reliable bank-fishing locations are the lake edge beside the ski clubrooms (the first area reached on arrival) and Scoutland’s beach at the end of the tar-sealed road. A boat ramp allows easy launching of small vessels, though anglers should avoid peak water-skiing hours to reduce disturbance.
Water Sports and Swimming
Lake Wiritoa is a popular venue for water skiing and jet skiing, with the Whanganui Water Ski Club based on site. Boating, canoeing and kayaking are also common. Designated active and passive zones help manage different user groups.
Swimming is permitted and the lake is monitored for water quality. Users must observe Maritime NZ guidelines, including a 5-knot speed limit within 200 metres of the shore, within 50 metres of other boats or swimmers, and other safety rules. Dogs are permitted at the beach and boat ramp area.
What Visitors Often Say
Easy access from Whanganui makes this a convenient spot for reliable perch fishing. Early morning visits before water skiers arrive often produce the best results from the bank or boat.
Families appreciate the straightforward bank fishing near the clubrooms, where children can catch their first perch on simple worm rigs without needing a boat or licence.
Where to Learn More
Whanganui District Council – Lake Wiritoa: Details on location, facilities, boat regulations and maintenance responsibilities.
Fish & Game – Whanganui Fisheries: Authoritative guidance on perch fishing techniques, spots and seasonal patterns at Lake Wiritoa.
LAWA – Lake Wiritoa swim site: Current water quality monitoring and swim status information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Lake Wiritoa?
Lake Wiritoa lies on Kaitoke Road off State Highway 3, approximately five minutes’ drive south of Whanganui.
Do I need a fishing licence for Lake Wiritoa?
No fishing licence is required for perch, the primary species at the lake.
What fish are in Lake Wiritoa?
Perch form the main fishery, with some stocked rainbow trout also present according to regional reports.
What is the best time to fish Lake Wiritoa?
Fishing is most productive in warmer months during early morning or late afternoon. Jigging from a boat can also be effective in winter and spring.
Can I launch a boat at Lake Wiritoa?
Yes, a boat ramp is available on site. Visitors should avoid peak water-skiing hours to minimise conflict with other users.
What are the best fishing spots on the lake?
The lake edge at the ski clubrooms and Scoutland’s beach at the end of the tar-sealed road are the most productive bank-fishing locations.
Is swimming allowed at Lake Wiritoa?
Yes, swimming is popular. Check current water quality on the LAWA website before entering the water.
Are dogs allowed at Lake Wiritoa?
Dogs are permitted in the beach and boat ramp area.
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