Whanganui River Journey - Three Day Independent Canoe Trip

Whanganui River Journey - Three Day Independent Canoe Trip
From NZD $295.00
  • Duration: 2 Days (approx.)
  • Product code: AAWRJ1

This trip is available October to April


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.

  • Accommodation on the river in huts included.
  • All transportation included
  • Canoe or kayak hire plus all safety equipment included.

Day One: Whakahoro to John Coull Hut (37.5km, 7-9  Hours). Meet in the early morning at the town of Ohakune where you can park your vehicle securely. Your preference of canoe or kayak is loaded aboard the shuttle-bus trailer and then you are off to the start of your river adventure at Whakahoro. After a full safety and equipment briefing you'll be on your way. 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. Your first overnight stop is at John Coull Hut.

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, on your way to Tieke Kainga. Here 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). Stay the night at the Tieke Kainga Hut.

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 will be picked up from here and returned to Ohakune.


*Please Note:

There is a supplementary fee imposed by the NZ Government for international (non-NZ Resident) visitors to NZ Great Walks  - If you are an international visitor please select the International Adult / Child Price Boxes.

For safety reasons there is a minimum of 2 Participants for this trip.

Only available for children above 9 years old - must be accompanied by an adult.