A noticeable change noted by SWMBO (She Who Must Be Obeyed manages TRM and keeps her eye on the welfare of inmates) is the increasing age of tourist anglers in particular. This is confirmed together with the falling sales of Taupo fishing licences at about half the volume of 30 years ago, with fewer younger people taking up the art of fly fishing. The lures of freshwater fly fishing have failed to compete with google. Under Her careful direction the standard of facilities have also changed slightly to match this inevitable ageing trend.

One reoccurring request is from regulars who, for obvious reasons, ask for a unit without steps or one with a hand rail next to the steps. Any problems or complaints about the “facilities” are always referred to Her as I am hidden away in the laundry most of the time. If SWMBO claims the new strong and sturdy hand rails were also installed to assist me (and other house-keeping staff) servicing the units then we have to regretfully admit, that is correct. But thank you to many inmates who have gratefully commented on their practicality. One inmate, who shall not be named, suggested they were long overdue for his return after he visits other units for a strong cup of tea after fishing… OK?

Some other interesting items that can be seen in the images above include a full range of old waders that have past their used-by date i.e. they leak. Previously these have been snapped up by inmates wanting them for wearing in the boat or washing the truck – anywhere they are not deep wading so a small leak is not an issue. If you need some old waders then book now as they will not last long. OK?

Another addition in the images above is the walking or wading ploes which hang outside every unit. These duplicate as wading poles for fishos and walking poles for the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. If they are missing then they are being used so pinch some off another unit – we will not mind. The safety of inmates is our first concern. SWMBO cannot afford to lose any more guests. OK?

Last, you might also notice DIDYM bottles hanging everywhere (Thank you to Brenda Lawson from DOC). These are to encourage anglers that are moving rivers or lakes to use them on every change. Otherwise we will release your name to Didymo Dave to deal with offenders. Everyone has to be more vigilant over bio-security in this region so please take one to leave in your car boot (trunk) already loaded with anti-didymo detergent for when you need one. OK?