Whanganui River Journey - Three Day Guided Canoe

Whanganui River Journey - Three Day Guided Canoe
From NZD $1,190.00
  • Duration: 3 Days (approx.)
  • Product code: AAWRJ2

This trip is available from October to May


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 by experienced and certified operators
  • Great for families, kids from 8 years old can join the trip!
  • All meals provided - Hot cooked breakfasts with fresh coffee, healthy lunches, and 
    3-course dinners with NZ wine
  • Canoe rental included in large stable multi-person canoes plus all safety equipment, personal locator beacon hire and full briefing
  • All transportation included from Ohakune to the river and return
  • Accommodation is camping with all camping gear provided and option for cabin on third night

    Day One: Whakahoro to John Coull Camp (37.5km). Canoes launched and you’re on your way. The gorge starts to narrow and you leave the last road access point behind at Whakahoro - the second and final mooring point for the old Colonial Houseboats. You pass Laceys and Wades landings and several old maori Kaianga. Later in the morning you pass Mangapapa campsite for a possible lunch stop, Man of War Bluff, Kirikiriroa where the river does a huge horseshoe turn, the Verandah, the Whirlpool and on down to Tamatea's. If you have time and weather on your side, there are a couple of stops today for canyon exploring and a swim.

    Day Two: John Coull to Bridge to Ramanui (29km). A morning paddle past the Tangarakau and Whangamomona rivers, and Otumangu landing - one of the post WW1 faming settlements. Shortly afterwards you see the first pine trees since Whakahoro (planted by the early settlers). 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 your second camping location on the river.

    Day Three: Ramanui Camp to Pipiriki (22km). 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 Ohakune by late afternoon.

*Please Note: 

Only available for children 8 to 14 years old