Whanganui River Journey - Three Day Guided Canoe Trip

This trip is available from 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.

• Fully guided with highly knowledgable, experienced and friendly guides.
• Canoe rental included in large stable multi-person canoes plus all safety equipment and briefing. 
• All transportation included.
• Accommodation includes 1 night at a very comfortable pre-set campsite (all camping equipment included) and 1 night at Bridge to Nowhere Lodge Cabins.
• Fully catered including 3 course meals and NZ wine.

Day One: Whakahoro to John Coull Campsite (37.5km, 7-9  Hours). You depart Ohakune 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). There is plenty of time for stops along the way and there are many safe places to get out and swim. You camp at John Coull Campsite where you will find your comfy tents waiting for you. Relax while dinner is prepared and enjoy the peace of this stunning natural region. 

Day Two: John Coull Campsite to Tieke Kainga  (29km, 6-8 Hours). Breakfast and on the river at 9am. A morning paddle past the Tangarakau and Whangamomona rivers, Mangawaiiti campsite, and Otumangu landing - one of the post WW1 faming settlements. Shortly afterwards you stop at the Mangapurua for lunch and a walk to the Bridge to Nowhere (45 min each way). After the walk there is time for a swim before you paddle the last 1.5hrs to the Bridge to Nowhere Lodge and Cabins (includes hot shower!).

Day Three: Tieke Kainga to Pipiriki (21.5km, 4-6 Hours). There's excitement to start the day with an hour long paddle through a steep gorge until the river cascades through Ngaporo rapid and down to Ngaporo campsite for a break. You paddle past the Mangaio stream and Mangaio rock where several of the early eyebolts can still be seen that were winching points for the riverboats. Next it's the Pururoto caves and then Autapu rapid. From Autapu there are several small rapids before the Paparoa rapids swings the canoes past the old eel traps and down to the landing at Pipiriki. After unloading boats and loading the trailer you have a quick stop in Pipiriki and a short one hour drive back to Ohakune.

*Please Note: 

Only available for children over 6 years old.