North Mole Whanganui Heads
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North Mole Whanganui Heads

4.5
Β·153 reviewsΒ·Whanganui, New Zealand

A popular fishing pier and scenic spot where the Whanganui River meets the sea, featuring a unique driftwood beach.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Anytime

Always a good time for fishing

CrowdLow
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North Mole Whanganui Heads

North Mole Whanganui Heads

Best Time

Anytime

Always a good time for fishing

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A popular fishing pier and scenic spot where the Whanganui River meets the sea, featuring a unique driftwood beach.

4.5
(153 reviews)

"A nice spot to park up and fish or watch the water pass you by."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎣 Cast Your Line

A popular fishing spot, bring your gear and try your luck! Be mindful of snags if you don't reel in quickly.

πŸšΆβ€β™€οΈ Scenic Strolls

Enjoy a walk or run along the coast, especially on the driftwood-strewn beach north of the mole.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.5 Β· 153 reviews

πŸ…ΏοΈ Accessible parking

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The North Mole

The North Mole

Whanganui River mouth

A popular fishing pier offering great views and a chance to catch your dinner. Relax and chat with fellow anglers.

River Meets Sea Views

River Meets Sea Views

End of the North Mole

Witness the dramatic confluence of the Whanganui River and the Pacific Ocean. Beautiful vistas await.

Driftwood Beach

Driftwood Beach

North of the North Mole

A unique beach covered in driftwood, perfect for creative building and exploration. A photographer's delight.

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Planning Your Visit

Fishing Hotspot & Scenic Escape

This popular spot is ideal for anglers and offers stunning views of the Whanganui River meeting the sea. It's a relaxed environment with ample parking and nearby facilities, perfect for a casual outing or a scenic walk.

Driftwood Beach Adventures

Explore the unique driftwood-strewn beach north of the mole. It's a creative haven for building temporary structures and offers a different kind of natural beauty, especially for those new to the area.

Best Times

When
Anytime
Why
Always a good time for fishing
Crowd
Low
When
Nice days
Why
Beautiful views and pleasant walks
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Fishing advice near Whanganui River or Tongariro

Good Afternoon! I'm a traveller here in NZ and have been trying my hand at fishing, but have been having no luck in the fishing holes I've tried so far. I'm a little inexperienced with fishing, but I did grow up around it at home in Canada. Fishing seems to be quite different…

🎣 Cast Your Line

A popular fishing spot, bring your gear and try your luck! Be mindful of snags if you don't reel in quickly. Reddit

πŸšΆβ€β™€οΈ Scenic Strolls

Enjoy a walk or run along the coast, especially on the driftwood-strewn beach north of the mole. Reddit

reddit.com

Seal at North Mole Whanganui

Nov - Jan 2022 ..mother and pup were present at North Mole local fishermen were catching john dory that afternoon

πŸš— Easy Access Parking

Plenty of parking is available, making it convenient for visitors. Reddit+1

🚻 Facilities Nearby

Toilets are conveniently located nearby for your comfort. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🎣 Cast Your Line

A popular fishing spot, bring your gear and try your luck! Be mindful of snags if you don't reel in quickly. Reddit

πŸšΆβ€β™€οΈ Scenic Strolls

Enjoy a walk or run along the coast, especially on the driftwood-strewn beach north of the mole. Reddit

πŸš— Easy Access Parking

Plenty of parking is available, making it convenient for visitors. Reddit+1

🚻 Facilities Nearby

Toilets are conveniently located nearby for your comfort. Reddit

🀝 Friendly Community

Expect a friendly atmosphere with fellow fishermen and locals. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(153 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the North Mole as a popular and scenic fishing spot with beautiful views of the river meeting the sea. The ample parking and nearby facilities are appreciated, as is the friendly community atmosphere. Some note that fishing can be challenging with occasional snags and no guaranteed catch, but the overall experience is relaxing and enjoyable.

"We fished at the North Mole where the Whanganui river heads out to sea ... a few snags if you don't wind in quickly and no fish for us that day but it was nice to spend a few hours relaxing by the sea chating to other fishoes waiting for that big bite. Plenty of parking and toilets nearby πŸ‘"

Gary Esler

"Quite a nice surprise if you reach this area. There were multiple fishermen catching their kai at the end of the jetty. The view towards the sea and Whanganui River are beautiful. The beach north from the point is full of drift woods - if you're not from the area, this is a cool spot to have a walk. Get your creativity on and build your own huts using the driftwood!
Plenty of parking space available."

Ryno Z

"I live in Castlecliff and this is a great place to come fishing... Friendly people and family friendly too, more gets done to this area every year... 🀘 the views beautiful on a nice day, great place for a walk or even running which I often do..."

Sacha Watkins

What People Like

Great fishing spot
Beautiful river/sea views
Plenty of parking

What People Dislike

Occasional snags
No guaranteed catch

Frequently Asked Questions

πŸš‡ πŸ—ΊοΈ Getting There

The North Mole is easily accessible by car, with plenty of parking available nearby. It's located at the mouth of the Whanganui River. Reddit+1

Information on direct public transport to the North Mole is limited, but local bus routes may get you close to the Castlecliff area, from where you can walk. It's best to check local Whanganui transport schedules.

Parking is generally plentiful at the North Mole, especially outside of peak fishing times. Arrive a little earlier on busy days if possible. Reddit+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, access to the North Mole and the surrounding beach areas is free for everyone. Reddit

The North Mole is an open public space and is accessible at all hours. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and enjoyment. Reddit

🎫 🎣 Fishing & Activities

Anglers often report catching various fish species. It's a popular spot for local fishermen to catch their 'kai' (food). Reddit

Yes, a fishing license is generally required for recreational fishing in New Zealand. You can obtain one from local bait and tackle shops or online.

You can enjoy scenic walks, photography, and exploring the unique driftwood beach north of the mole. It's also a great spot for relaxation. Reddit

Always check the latest regulations from the Department of Conservation (DOC) or local fisheries authorities for any size or bag limits.

πŸ“Έ πŸ“Έ Photography

Capture the dramatic meeting of the river and sea, the long pier, and the unique landscape of the driftwood beach. Sunrises and sunsets can be particularly stunning here. Reddit

Absolutely. The contrast between the water, the mole, and the driftwood beach offers diverse photographic subjects. Reddit

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