When TRM posted the amended access regulations for the Stone Jug Road access to the Whakapapa River, we had no idea how many people were sensitive about the controversy over the paper road access.  Now, a few days later, there have been over 70,000 views and over 100 interactions – comments, etc.  So we have been encouraged to post the original owners’ threatening sign – “DANGER!!! RIFLE RANGE IN USE” (!) on the gate dating from February 2007:

No wonder anglers and Fish & Game wanted the access matter sorted.  We have seen many signs on many farms over many years, but none as rudely challenging or confrontational as this.  In 2009, it was replaced with the misleading sign below, which was replaced again, and which has received so much attention.

Pause for a moment and compare that threatening, unfortunate individual response to eight adjoining farmers’ reactions in a more remote location just over the hill west of Raetihi, where another famous fly fishing river winds through several farms before linking with the Wanaganui River. What a difference in attitude!

There may be hope for the future after all!

Thank you to the Taranaki Region’s excellent Fish & Game brochure, which includes a useful map listing all farmers’ names and phone numbers to assist anglers who wish to fish along the river—a huge difference in attitude and PR.

Anglers could then check with the landowners first to confirm whether it is a suitable time, whether they are in the middle of lambing, or whether there is a bull in that paddock.

Small towns like Kakahi and Owhango rely on custom from tourist anglers.  Threatening signage does not encourage any visitors at all.  So after many years of trading since 1937 (!), it is very sad to see that one notable shopkeeper at Kakahi, Manu Lala, the unofficial Mayor of Kakahi, has retired and closed his doors.

How times have changed… In the 1970’s photo of Kakahi General Store, note the rifles for sale in the front window…