Neil Hirtzel

Born in Whangarei, Neil had no opportunity to experience fly-fishing while growing up. Salt water fishing and collecting scallops had to suffice. 

Neil left New Zealand in his early twenties, living and working overseas for eight years and travelling to some 30 plus countries. He returned home in 1970 and started fly-fishing. This quickly became his major sporting interest.

Neil first experienced competition fly-fishing as a controller at the World Fly-Fishing Championships held in New Zealand in 1991.He qualified for the New Zealand Nationals in 2004 and gained a place in the national team for the 2005 Oceania Competition. He retained his place in the team for the World Champs in Portugal and Commonwealth Competition Wales 2006, the Oceania Champs in Tasmania in 2007.
Neil will once again represent his country at the Commonwealth Championships 2008 in Hastings New Zealand.

 
A builder by trade, Neil also has an architectural draughting diploma and returned to his trade after working at Air New Zealand for 20 years.

An honorary life member of the Auckland Freshwater Anglers Club, Neil organises the annual Auckland Regional fly-fishing contest. Married to Marilu and are parents to Natasha, Galina and Zane.
Other interests include Rugby league, cricket, travel and rod building.