Canoeing & Kayaking
Whanganui River Journey
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- Whanganui River Journey
This is without doubt one of New Zealand’s most unique and fascinating adventures, where you cruise the deep jade waters of the Whanganui River, through the heart of the Whanganui National park and leave civilisation far behind. Along the way discover beautiful natural wonders and connect with the spirit of the Tangata Whenua.
This is without doubt one of New Zealand’s most unique and fascinating adventures, where you cruise the deep jade waters of the Whanganui River, through the heart of the Whanganui National park and leave civilisation far behind. Along the way discover beautiful natural wonders and connect with the spirit of the Tangata Whenua.
Activity in brief
- Distance:
- 88km
- Duration:
- 3 days
- Start - End:
- Whakahoro - Pipiriki
- Transport:
- Bus
Accommodation: Department of Conservation Huts, Campsites, Lodge and Cabins.
Nearest Town: Ohakune
Activity Overview
The Whanganui River Journey is available from October to April
The beautiful jade green Whanganui River is one of the longest rivers in the country and this magnificent floating adventure take you on a voyage deep into the pristine forests of the surrounding national park.
It's a trip that takes you through steep-sided canyons far from towns and roads. Here you'll find tranquility as well as abundant birdlife in the native podocarp forests that cling to the the river’s edge. Along the way you can take a break from the water for short walks in the forest and immerse yourself in history with the numerous important Maori cultural sights along the way.
This is a generally straightforward paddle, with a few gentle rapids to negotiate, so it's definitely a great option for families. Independent trips or fully guided and catered excursions of varying lengths are available!
"THANKS AGAIN FOR ALL YOUR QUICK AND CLEAR COMMUNICATION AND HELPING US TO HAVE THE MOST AMAZING TIME ON THE WHANGANUI RIVER JOURNEY. IT IS AN AWESOME TRIP AND WE'RE SO PLEASED TO HAVE DONE IT!" SHELLEY, NZ
Itineraries
Personalised Itineraries
- We can organise your independent canoe trip for anything from 3 to 5 days. we can also recommend various options for your starting point and each overnight stop. Accomodation options include Department of Conservation huts, campgrounds, cabins and lodges. And we'll sort out all your gear and transport of course!
- If you are a less confident paddler but are still keen to experience this awesome trip we can recommend a fully guided trip - these include canoe hire and all your gear, transportation, they are fully catered and you stay in confirmable campsites or lodge cabins. The knowledgeable guides are well trained and experienced. Guided trips from 3 to 5 days are available.
Contact us today and we can help you with some great advice and organise all the details for you.
Include the Whanganui Canoe Trip in your unique Multi-Activity Trip
You can combine this canoe trip with any other activity on this website to create your own unique itinerary.
When you develop your own tailor-made itinerary with us, it's fully customised with your choice of activities, accommodation and transport around New Zealand - Click here for more information about Multi-Activity Trips or Enquire Now to get started.
BOOK this trip online now...
Three Day Independent Canoe
- Available October to April
- Canoe rental included in large stable multi-person canoes plus all safety equipment and briefing.
- All transportation included from Raetihi to the river and return.
- Accommodation includes 2 nights at the comfortable Department of Conservation Huts on the river
Day One: Whakahoro to John Coull Hut (37.5km, 7-9 Hours). You depart the canoe base in Raetihi between 7.30 and 8.00am for the river. At Whakahoro the canoes are unloaded and you're shown you how to safely navigate your canoe. The gorge starts to narrow and you leave the last road access point behind at Whakahoro, passing several old Maori kaianga (villages). This is the start of the scenic middle reaches of the river. You'll pass numerous waterfalls, the Tarepokiore (whirlpool) rapid and then the large overhang known as Tamatea’s Cave - a highly sacred place.
Day Two: John Coull Hut to Tieke Kainga (29km, 6-8 Hours). On this section, you’ll follow the river as it meanders through bush-covered hills, passing the mouths of the Tangarakau and Whangamomona rivers where they join the Whanganui. Perched high above the river, Mangawaiiti is an attractive spot to stop for lunch. Continue your trip downstream past the Mangapurua Landing, gateway to the Bridge to Nowhere, where you can get out and walk for an hour or so if you like. When you arrive at Tieke Kainga you can examine the intricately-carved pou whenua (carved timber pole) and learn about the history of Tieke and the tikanga (protocol) of the marae (meeting house).
Day Three: Tieke Kainga to Pipiriki (21.5km, 4-6 Hours). Today you'll wonder at the scenic gorge of the Manganui o te Ao River where it enters the Whanganui after its journey from the slopes of Mt Ruapehu. The Ngaporo and Autapu rapids then provides the day's excitement and perhaps a cool dip on a hot afternoon. You’ll pass through more dense native forest, before finally emerging into farmland and the end of your journey at Pipiriki village. You'll return to Raetihi by late afternoon.
Pricing: Three Day Independent Canoe
From NZD$295 per adult / NZD$265 per child (10 to 16). Includes canoe and safety equipment rental, all transportation and accomodation in Department of Conservation huts.
Book NowActivity Planning
When to go
This trip is definitely best between October and April and not just because being on the river when its warm and sunny is more enjoyable: There's more daylight hours to complete reasonably long days on the water and there's less chance of heavy rain rising river levels and making it dangerous to paddle.
What to bring
We organise:
Canoe - Each canoe comes complete with paddles, buoyancy vests, and waterproof storage barrels.
You will receive a full safety and equipment briefing before you head out on to the water. Please note that for safety reasons solo paddlers have to be placed together into small groups.
You will need to bring:
Waterproof jacket
Lots of warm clothes
Water bottle
Sunscreen
Insect repellant
First-aid kit
Sleeping bag
If canoeing independently - All your food, gas cooker, plates, bowls, utensils etc.
Accommodation
Accommodation On The River
Bridge to Nowhere Lodge
This cosy wilderness retreat has cabins with 3-4 bunks or in the lodge itself private twins, doubles or family rooms are available.
Huts
For independent canoeing accommodation is provided in two excellent Department of Conservation Huts: John Coull Hut and Tieke Kainga Hut (which is uniquely also a historic marae). They both feature toilets, fresh water, mattresses, tables, benches and heating.
For more information about backcountry huts in New Zealand please checkout our accommodation guide here.
Accommodation In Ohakune
We can organise your accommodation in the charming resort town of Ohakune for before and after your trip if you wish. Please let us know what sort of accommodation you are looking for when you make your booking for this activity, and we can discuss the options with you.
Transportation
Shuttle-Bus
Pick up your kayak or canoe, and the rest of your gear, at Raetahi. Transportation is provided from there to the start point at Whakahoro and return from Pipiriki. Secure vehicle storage also available in Raetahi.