Advocates for the Tongariro River
The Advocates for the Tongariro River are a community group made up of people passionate about the river. Our aim is to speak out for the Tongariro River and its environs and promote ways to look after the river so that it is here for all to enjoy in the years to come.
Join Us
If you care about the future health of the Tongariro River and its environment and would like to support us in our mission then become a member or make a donation.
Site Guide
Blog - Keep up-to-date with recent issues and happenings
ABOUT - Find out more about the Advocates, Our Aims and Achievements, Our Committee, and Other Stakeholders.
Join Us - Membership information and joining form
Contact - Contact us
ISSUES - Describes a range of issues being addressed by the Advocates
LIBRARY - Our library of Key Documents, Annual Reports, and more.
Note, menu items in capitals indicate the presence of sub-menus.
River Flow, Rainfall & Lake Level Information
Tongariro River Flow Rates
Measured at the Major Jones pool, from Genesis Energy.
Recreational Releases
Tongariro River recreational releases information is available here.
Turangi Rainfall 
Lake Taupo Level
Lake Taupo level data is available here.
Tongariro River Video April 2026
Helicopter video of the Tongariro river from the Delta to Waikato Falls
In April 2026, we conducted a helicopter survey of the Tongariro River from the delta to Waikato falls. This followed a similar survey which we conducted in April 2023, in the aftermath of Cyclone Gabrielle. The survey was done with the aid of a chartered helicopter and professional videographer.
Aside from giving a stunning panorama of the beautiful, world-renowned river which
we all cherish, it showed no significant changes to the river since the previous
survey.
The previous survey highlighted a substantial number of fallen pine trees on the river-bed / flood plain below the Rangipo bridge as a result of cyclone Gabrielle.
These could potentially cause a blockage if they moved to the wrong position in a subsequent flood. While there has been some migration, they appear to be relatively stable after the two 700 cumec floods last winter. Waikato Regional Council are also
monitoring these after any major floods, since we brought it to their attention.
Other than that, the video highlights the continuing expansion of willow and wilding pine infestation, which is a concern from an environmental and aesthetic perspective, as well as limiting angler access. We have recently discussed this again
with DOC, who are well aware of the issue, and are aiming to take remedial steps.
However, it is not straightforward as it involves a number of land-owners and stake-holders, and in the case of willows, to be of any lasting benefit, eradication needs to start at the top of the river to prevent seed migration. We have offered financial
support if required.
The 2026 video can be viewed below, and the 2023 video is in the Library section.