Today it is a popular fishing river and is unique in New Zealand as the only place where trout can be taken using bait. Jet boat rides up the river are a popular feature. TOP OF PAGE Howarth Wetlands Reserve. Developed over many years and now extending along a large area of the river bank in the centre of Te Aroha. Raised walkways and special viewing areas allow the visitor to be part of the wetland habitat and give an opportunity for viewing a wide range of native birdlife.
Guides are available and recommended.
The gardens of Te Aroha area are justly famed as is the town's floral festival held every two years. Te Aroha is set in the midst of some of the finest farmland in New Zealand. TOP OF PAGE Information Services. TOP OF PAGE Kaimai-Mamaku Forest Park. Extending from Karangakake Gorge near Paeroa, southward to the Mamaku Plateau, the Kaimai-Mamaku Forest Park gives protection to the rugged bush covered ranges for soil, water, ecological, scenic and recreational values.