Moerangi River

The Moerangi River or Moerangi Stream is a small river located in New Zealand's Whirinaki Te Pua-a-Tāne Conservation Park. It is one of the main tributaries of the Waiau River, Hawke's Bay. This river is mostly used by trampers (hikers), fishermen, and hunters.

The Moerangi River can only be accessed by foot or helicopter. There are 2 primary routes on foot. The first, Okahu Road to Rogers Hut, takes about 3 hours where the other, Whirinaki Car Park to Moerangi Hut, takes 4 hours. This route is more difficult and has more challenging terrain compared to the one starting at Okahu Road. A tramping track runs along the river for a significant portion of its course, extending from Rogers Hut at the downstream end of the river to Moerangi Hut in more upper reaches of the river.

The Moerangi River is inhabited by a population of rainbow trout and holds a crucial role as the spawning tributary of the Waiau River. The trout in this river typically weigh between 3 and 6 pounds. Fishing opportunities are available along the stretch from Rogers Hut to Moerangi Hut. Beyond Moerangi Hut, the river's size diminishes; however, during autumn, the fish migrate to the headwaters for spawning.

The river and track that follow provides access to some fairly remote hunting grounds. Red deer are the most common game found in the area along with a few wild pigs.[1]