Meet Your Host and Guide

Kristina Placko is a certified member of the NZ Professional Fishing Guides Association, a mentor with Casting for Recovery South Island, and a regular workshop leader across NZ and Australia.

She’s also a public speaker, published fly fishing writer, and construction project manager—bringing warmth, skill, and practical teaching to every session, understanding what it means to feel safe, empowered and understood in male-dominated worlds..

What will we be doing?

• A weekend of new & fun experiences.

• Fly casting instruction & river guiding.

• Streamcraft & river stewardship.

• Think Like a Trout & Flies 101.

• River & fishing time.

• Stretching & mindfulness for relaxation.

• Outdoor fire & dining - and plenty of snacks!

• Generous show bags to take home.

• Small group support (max 6).

What’s included?

• 2 nights shared accommodation in a beautiful private farm stay with private river access.

• Meals & drinks - BYOB.

• Qualified instruction and guiding.

• Rods, reels and gear if needed or bring your own!

• Weekend fishing licence is included.

Where We’ll Stay – Tomogalak Lodge

Nestled in the heart of Southland, Tomogalak Lodge is the perfect riverside base for our weekend together. With sweeping views, native bush surrounds, and the perfect blend of farm and high country (without sacrificing comfort), it’s the kind of place you’ll instantly feel at home.

We’ll have the whole place to ourselves—so there’s space to relax, share stories, and step outside with your coffee to the morning sounds of Southland.

• Shared twin and queen rooms.

• Cosy fireplace, open-plan kitchen.

• Large outdoor BBQ and seating area.

• Hot Spa for unwinding in the evenings…or any time of day!

• Modern and comfortable bathrooms.

• Walking distance to a trout-populated river and 5–20 mins drive to blue-ribbon local fishing waters.