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Canoe Safari’s On The Whanganui River

Guided Canoe Adventures On The Whanganui River

Welcome to Canoe Safaris, your premier destination for guided canoe trips on the stunning Whanganui River in New Zealand. Our experienced guides will take you on a journey through the heart of the Central North Island, where you’ll experience the beauty and tranquillity of one of the most scenic rivers in the country.

Our guided canoe trips cater to all skill levels, from novice paddlers to experienced kayakers. You’ll have the opportunity to paddle through lush native bush, marvel at towering waterfalls, and spot a range of native birdlife.

Our trips also include stops at various historical sites, including the famous Bridge to Nowhere, a testament to New Zealand’s pioneering spirit.

At Canoe Safaris, we offer a range of multi-day trips, from one-day adventures to five-day expeditions.

Our one-day trip covers a 30km section of the river, with stops at historic sites and lunch on the riverbank.

Our two-day trip includes a stay at our riverside campsites or unique accommodation places, where you can relax and unwind after a day of paddling.

Our three-day trip takes you further down the river, with more time to explore the stunning scenery and enjoy the peace of the wilderness.

For those looking for a more immersive experience, our four and five-day trips are the ultimate Whanganui River adventure.

You’ll spend your days paddling through the remote wilderness, with plenty of time to explore side streams and hidden waterfalls.

In the evenings, you’ll relax in our comfortable campsites and enjoy delicious meals prepared by our guides.

At Canoe Safaris, we’re committed to providing guests with a safe and enjoyable experience.

Our guides are trained to the highest standards, and we use top-of-the-line equipment to ensure your comfort and safety on the river.

So why wait? Book your guided canoe trip with Canoe Safaris today and experience the natural wonders of the Whanganui River for yourself.

1 Day - Lavender Farm Canoe Trip

If you only have one day to spare or want a taste of the Whanganui River before committing to a more extended trip, our lavender farm voyage is the perfect option.

During your journey, you’ll paddle through a landscape steeped in early Aotearoa history, with remnants of rock weirs and other Riverboat artifacts visible along the way.

As you glide past ancient native bush, you’ll feel a connection to the land that has endured for centuries.

Our guides will share their knowledge of the area, pointing out key historical and cultural landmarks along the route.

At the end of the day, you’ll arrive at our lavender farm café, where you can relax and unwind while taking in the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Our lavender farm canoe trip is the perfect way to experience the beauty and tranquillity of the Whanganui River.

Book your trip today and discover the magic of this special place for yourself.

2 Day - Bridge To Nowhere

Looking for an exciting 2-day weekend adventure on the Whanganui River? Join us on our two-day guided canoe trip, where you’ll cover the stunning 87km section of the Whanganui National Park and experience the thrill of a jetboat ride down the last part of the river to Pipiriki.

On the first day, we’ll paddle through lush native bush and past towering waterfalls before arriving at our overnight stop, the John Coull Hut and Campsite. Enjoy a hearty meal and relax under the stars before turning in for the night.

On the second day, we’ll take a walk to the famous Bridge to Nowhere, a testament to New Zealand’s pioneering spirit. After exploring the site, we’ll embark on a thrilling jetboat ride to Pipiriki, taking in the stunning scenery along the way.

Our experienced guides will provide insight into the area’s rich history and culture, and ensure your safety and comfort throughout the trip. This 2-day guided canoe trip is the perfect way to experience the natural beauty and tranquility of the Whanganui River.

So why wait? Book your trip now and get ready for an unforgettable adventure on the Whanganui River.

2 Day - Upper Whanganui

Are you looking for an exciting weekend adventure on the Whanganui River? Our 2-day guided canoe trip is the perfect way to experience the natural beauty and history of the area.

This trip covers the upper section of the river, from the launch point down to Whakahoro. Choose between two options, covering either 37.5km or 57km, depending on the river levels and group fitness.

Along the way, you’ll encounter many of the area’s historic sites and rapids, including some of the most thrilling rapids on the river.

Our experienced guides will provide insight into the area’s rich history and culture and ensure your safety and comfort throughout the trip.

This 2-day canoe trip is ideal for those with just a weekend to spare or those who want to “test the water” before committing to a more extended trip.

Contact us today to learn more about our tailored approach to the trip and how we can create an unforgettable adventure for you.

So why wait? Book your trip now and get ready to experience the thrill and beauty of the upper Whanganui River.

3 Day - Guided Voyager

Are you looking for a relaxing 3-day adventure on the Whanganui River? Join us on our 3-day guided canoe trip and experience the beauty and history of this iconic New Zealand river.

Our two six-person open canoes are based on the early Voyageur canoes from the fur trading days in Canada, offering a comfortable and unique experience on the river. Our priority is your comfort, and we’ve added little extras to make your trip unforgettable.

The trip covers 90km of the Whanganui River and includes:

• Excellent three-course meals.
• Bottled New Zealand wine.
• All camping equipment.
• One night at our pre-set campsite.
• One night at the Bridge to Nowhere Lodge overlooking the river.

Relax and cruise in style in our Big Canoes, with our experienced guides providing insight into the area’s rich history and culture.

This 3-day guided canoe trip is perfect if you only have three days but still want to relax and unwind. So why wait? Book your trip now and get ready to experience the beauty and tranquillity of the Whanganui River in style.

3 Day - Guided Canoe Tour

We want to make your 3-day guided canoe trip as stress-free and enjoyable as possible, so we offer the option to stay with us in our Ohakune Lodge the night before your trip.

We’ll take care of all transportation to the river and expertly guide you throughout the journey.

During your 3-day adventure, we’ll provide you with high-quality camping and safety equipment, so you don’t have to worry about a thing.

And we’ll ensure you’re well-fed with delicious gourmet meals in the wilderness. Wake up to a cooked breakfast each morning before starting your day of adventure.

Staying with us at our Ohakune Lodge before your trip is a great way to relax and prepare for your upcoming journey.

Plus, getting to know your fellow adventurers before setting off on your 3-day guided canoe trip is an excellent opportunity.

So, what are you waiting for? Book your stay at our Ohakune Lodge and prepare for an unforgettable 3-day adventure on the Whanganui River!

4 Day - Guide Whanganui River Tour

Looking for a more relaxed pace and extra time to explore the stunning Whanganui River?

Our 4-day guided tour is the perfect option for families with children, larger groups, or anyone who wants to fully immerse themselves in the beauty of the river and its surroundings.

With an extra day to paddle and explore, you’ll have more time to take in the stunning canyons, tributaries, and swimming spots the river offers.

Our experienced guides will also use this extra time to focus on your canoeing skills so that you can feel confident and comfortable on the water.

We take care of everything on this trip, from booking the necessary DOC permits to providing spacious tents, comfortable mattresses, and high-quality safety equipment.

Our camp cooking is top-notch, too, with delicious cooked breakfasts and three-course gourmet dinners with New Zealand wine each night.

Relax and let us take care of the details while you enjoy the journey of a lifetime on the beautiful Whanganui River. 

5 Day - Guided Whanganui River Trip

Experience the ultimate Whanganui River adventure with our 5-day guided tour.

This is the perfect trip for those looking to truly disconnect from technology and immerse themselves in the stunning wilderness of the Whanganui National Park.

Ideal for families with children or anyone seeking a longer, more in-depth journey.

We take care of everything, including gourmet-cooked breakfasts and 3-course dinners with New Zealand wine, spacious tents, comfortable 3-inch thick sleeping mats, and cooking gear.

All you need to bring is a sleeping bag and personal gear.

Explore canyons, waterfalls, and historically significant sites on this 120km Whanganui journey stretch.

With five days on the river, our experienced guides will teach you tips and techniques to navigate the river like a pro.

This is our most popular Whanganui River trip and the ultimate holiday for anyone seeking an actual wilderness experience.

Depending on the river levels, you can start at either Ohinepane or Whakahoro.

Avoid the busier campsites and enjoy the tranquillity of the river on this unforgettable adventure.Ohinepane

The Rangitikei River Guided Canoe Trips

Looking for a thrilling canoe adventure? Look no further than the Rangitikei River! This incredible river is known for its small rapids, clear water, and stunning scenery.

This is the perfect option if you want something different from the Whanganui River tour. The Rangitikei River winds through the Kaimanawa and Ruahine ranges, creating steep gorges and breathtaking views.

The rapids are grade one and two, providing just the right amount of excitement for a fun-filled trip. In addition to the rapids, there are plenty of opportunities for trout fishing, swimming, and exploring.

You can enjoy grassy campsites on the river’s edge, hike to waterfalls, and see the incredible Rangitikei Boulders. Plus, we offer the chance to walk to the remains of the Mangaweka power scheme built in 1911 – a fascinating piece of history.

How about some wild camping?

As DOC doesn’t manage this river, we have more flexibility for campsites on our longer trips. Our experienced guides will ensure you have everything you need for an unforgettable trip.

1 Day Guided Rangitikei River

Join us for a fun-filled day on the Rangitikei River surrounded by steep gorges.

This one-day canoe trip departs from our Ohakune base at 7am and includes lunch along the way.

Your experienced guide will ensure your safety while showing you the best spots to take in the stunning scenery and have some fun on the river.

Depending on river levels and time of year, we have a few options available, so get in touch to find out what works best for you!

2 Day Guided Rangitikei River

On the first day of our two-day Rangitikei River trip, we’ll pass under several huge viaducts on the main trunk railway and see the famous bungy and rope swing at Gravity Canyon.

The upper gorge of the river has lots of small rapids, providing excitement and a challenge for more experienced paddlers.

The scenery is breathtaking and we’ll encounter rapids every 50m or so. As we continue downstream, the river gradually becomes easier.

This is an ideal trip for those who have previous paddling experience or have done the Whanganui River tour before. We’ve had many overseas guests who rate the Rangitikei River as one of the best they’ve ever paddled.

3 Day Guided Rangitikei River

Day 1: We start our journey at Mokai, where we’ll introduce you to your experienced guide and fellow paddlers. The first day covers the deep papa gorges of the Rangitikei River, which offer some of the most breathtaking scenery in the region.

With rapids every 50m or so, you’ll be in for an exciting day on the water. We’ll also pass under several of the impressive viaducts on the main trunk railway and see the famous bungy and rope swing at Gravity Canyon.

Day 2: We continue our journey downstream, with the river becoming gradually easier as we go.

We’ll have plenty of opportunities to stop and explore the natural surroundings, including grassy riverbanks, stands of native bush, and short walks to waterfalls. There will also be plenty of time to relax and enjoy the clear water for swimming and trout fishing.

Day 3: On our final day, we’ll pass through the picturesque farmland surrounding Ohingaiti before reaching the end of our journey.

We’ll celebrate our adventure with a delicious lunch before saying our goodbyes and heading back to civilisation.

4 Day Guided Rangitikei River

Starting at the end of the white water rafting section, this 4-day canoe trip on the Rangitikei River is an unforgettable adventure.

We’ll cover the deep papa gorges down the river to Ohingaiti, passing under several of the huge viaducts on the main trunk railway, as well as the old bungy and rope swing at Gravity Canyon.

The first day is packed with stunning scenery and exciting rapids, with plenty of challenges and fun to be had. As we make our way further down the river, the rapids become easier and the scenery no less spectacular.

Throughout the trip, we’ll enjoy grassy campsites on the river’s edge, clear water for swimming and trout fishing, short walks to waterfalls and the incredible “Rangitikei Boulders”. As the river isn’t managed by DOC, we offer flexibility for campsites on our longer trips, including the option for wild camping.

Whether you’re an experienced paddler or a first-timer looking for adventure, this trip won’t disappoint.

Telephone:    06 385 9237                    Email:   [email protected]

Visit our Website:     canoesafaris.co.nz

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Booking for Canoe Safari’s On The Whanganui River

• 06 385 4176
• Reservation Only 0800 40 88 88
• [email protected]

Whanganui River Canoes

is a growing, locally owned and operated business based in Raetihi at the Raetihi Holiday Park.

Ben and Rebecca will be your hosts, along with our children Jasmine, Blake and Hunter – our aim is to make your stay at our Holiday Park and your trip on the Whanganui River an amazing experience.

We are the only canoe hire operators on the Whanganui River that own a Holiday Park so be assured that you will have a comfortable night’s sleep in our range of accommodation options the night before your trip – your comfort is our priority. After meeting us at the Raetihi Holiday Park we will shuttle you and your group to whichever canoe destination you have chosen. You can be assured that your cars will be securely parked at our base (for free) while you are paddling on the Whanganui River. And enjoy a free warm shower, drink, and snack when you get back to our base after the trip.

Our trips include 3 to 5 day freedom hire canoe experiences as well as freedom hire for you to explore the Whanganui River at your leisure. We can cater for any type of group and have years of experience helping visitors from all around New Zealand and all over the world to experience the Whanganui River. Choose Whanganui River Canoes for your next get away, family reunion, guys or gal’s trip away or team building activity.

We purchase new equipment regularly, and having the best equipment and transport options is our priority. The Whanganui River meanders it’s way from the mountains of the Central North Island down to the west coast before finally emerging at Wanganui. The river provides a safe but fun trip that is ideal for canoe travel and has “just enough” rapids to keep things interesting with incredible scenery along the way. There are huts and campsites conveniently placed on route. Your trip will finish in Pipiriki, and we are the closest operator to this spot. Why not get a group together and discover our latest Trips and fantastic offers for yourself?

We look forward to providing you with an unforgettable experience as we share our world with you!

Please be sure to read our Terms and Conditions before making a booking.

Free cancellation: Get a full refund of ticket price up to 24 hours in advance.

Canoe Safaris Whanganui River Journey

Experience the Whanganui River Journey with Canoe Safaris for an unforgettable wilderness adventure. Paddle Canadian-style canoes through New Zealand's premier natural environment, suitable for all skill levels. Enjoy safe, comfortable, and scenic tours in the heart of Whanganui National Park.

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Product unavailable on this date, nz$ 1145.00, guided paddling on new zealand's premier river system, stunning scenery - temperate rainforest & gorge river system, amazing guides, real care, experience and customer focus, all meals prepared for you - three course dinners, cooked breakfasts and tasty lunches, quality teaching, learn paddling a tandem canoe, navigate small rapids - all safe and enjoyably, full description.

This Whanganui River journey is the type of adventure where you can experience a stunning, totally natural New Zealand environemnt amongst pristine awe inspiring NZ native bush. An extraordinary adventure with a Canadian canoe amongst total nature. Tours offer a perfect blend of safety and excitement, allowing nearly anyone to enjoy paddling through the pristine wilderness of Whanganui National Park in our Canadian-style canoes.

Starting from our base in Ohakune, the adventure capital of New Zealand, we are conveniently located in the heart of the North Island. Just a short road trip from major cities, our buses will transport you to and from the start of your Whanganui River adventure.

The journey covers a vast stretch of the river, much of which is inaccessible by land. This is a must-do experience for both New Zealanders and visitors. Whether you're planning a family trip, a solo scenic journey, or a group adventure, canoeing the Whanganui River offers a unique and memorable outdoor experience for up to 5 days.

Imagine a holiday away from all distractions—no cell phones, no television, no shops, no traffic. Just you, your canoe, perhaps a few books, and friends or family to share in this special adventure.

Our tours camp at Department of Conservation (DOC) campsites, using tents that we provide. These sites are booked by us and included in the tour cost. We prefer these campsites over DOC huts, as they offer a more intimate connection with nature, especially during the summer months when the birds and forest provide delightful company.

Join us for the Whanganui River Journey and experience the unmatched magic of New Zealand's wilderness. Book your adventure today and create unforgettable memories with Canoe Safaris.

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Located at 6 Tay Street, Ohakune, New Zealand  –  in the heart of the North Island, we’re only a short road trip away from most major cities.

Once you get here, our buses will transport you to the start of your Whanganui Adventure.

Additional Information

• Our tours camp at Department of Conservation campsites, using tents that we provide, either two person shared, or if there is an odd number, then we have a single option available. • These campsites are booked by us, and it is part of the tour cost. • We don't use the DOC huts as a rule, not only are they are crowded with others, but our four and five day tours leap frog them to stay at smaller sites - and in the summer months, we find the birds and forest to be better company

Full refund if cancelled up to 30 days before activity starts.

There is a minimum number of travellers for this experience. If the minimum isn't met and we need to cancel, we will offer a different date/experience or a full refund.

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All participants are required to read and sign a "Risk Disclosure" form at arrival, prior to taking part in any "Adventure Activity" by NZ law.

Please view this form now before booking. No action is required now other than to read it to make sure you are happy to sign at arrival.

Four-Day Guided Whanganui National Park Canoe

Five-day guided whanganui national park canoe, three-day guided whanganui national park canoe, two-day guided rangitikei river canoe, your order summary.

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Canoe Safaris New Zealand

Canoe Safaris is the premier New Zealand Multi day Canoe Tour Guiding company. Operating both the Whanganui & Rangitikei rivers for anything up to five days, we pride ourselves on safety, coaching and guiding ability and providing exceptional meals to complement the natural beauty of our amazing wilderness areas.

A Canoe Safari on the Whanganui River

Listed as one of New Zealand’s nine Great Walks the Whanganui River Journey isn’t a walk at all.

Instead of tramping a well-trodden trail , those who seek to disconnect from the outside world paddle a 157km stretch of water which meanders through some of the most remote parts of New Zealand’s North Island .

‘Ko au te awa, ko te awa ko au’ I am the river, the river is me

One of the country’s longest and most scenic waterways, the Whanganui stems from the north-west flank of Mt Tongariro on the island’s volcanic Central Plateau. Flowing gently towards the Tasman Sea, the river is navigable as far north as Tamranui where this unique route begins .

Two days into the recommended itinerary and the river reaches the tiny settlement of Whakahoro. It is here we begin, launching our canoes and easing into a rhythmic paddle as the water carries us slowly towards the coast.

Known to offer the most spectacular views of the entire route, it is this middle section of waterway that leaves me breathless.

I am the river, the river is me.

PADDLING THE WHANGANUI RIVER 

From my perch in the front of the canoe my view is unobstructed.

To my left and right vast sandstone walls loom large, blanketed in vibrant green palms and littered with abstract patterns in the rock forged from millennia of lava flow and layered sediment.

Ahead 90km of water to paddle and three days of adventure to enjoy.

At times the only sound is the gentle trickle of water dripping from elevated paddles and occasionally the low pitched murmur of a waterfall is audible over the apparent silence.

As the sun reaches its peak high above, we stop for lunch. From our makeshift picnic bench of river rock we sit and refuel, watching as a waterfall spills over the cliff on the opposite bank tumbling down to the river below.

Back on the river talk turns to the Whanganui’s rich heritage .

In the late 19 th century the river was the lifeblood of the region,

says Grant our guide. 

Known as the Rhine of the Pacific steamboats traversed north and south ferrying much needed supplies to those early communities living along the river’s edge.

Pioneered by merchant Alexander Hatrick these steam powered paddle boats paved the way for tourism on the Whanganui, with some 12000 visitors arriving each year to experience the beauty of the waterway.

CAMPING AT JOHN COULL HUT

We paddle 37km that first day.

Although the greatest distance we would paddle in one stint, we were assisted somewhat by the flow of the Whanganui, its gentle rapids offering assistance when our muscles began to ache .

Late afternoon the river began to slow and so too did our pace. The rippling water that was once carrying us forward was still, mirror-like reflecting the world above.

Pitching our tents on the banked grassland aside the John Coull Hut (a DOC campsite), we dined on a hearty meal served up by our guide and turned in for the night in anticipation of the day ahead .

THE PARALLEL WORLD OF THE MANGAWAIITI

As we set our canoes in the river early the next morning, a kingfishers darts across the water. The river beckons us to join its gentle ebb and flow, and we set off towards the stretch of water known as the Mangawaiiti .

Although flowing gently south-west, the surface of the river appears still. Vertical rock walls plunge towards the river bed, blanketed in a pattern of green moss and an intriguing pattern which appears to have been etched into the rock.

Worn slanted grooves, what appeared to me as an ornate decoration was in fact a functional structure put in place by the ancient Maori tribesmen to whom the river was a means of transport .

To make the process of paddling upstream a little easier, the Maori would dig their wooden paddles into the rock, propelling their craft forwards against the current.

READ MORE OF MY NEW ZEALAND TRAVEL GUIDES

PADDLING THROUGH A PARALLEL WORLD

Our day is spent in flux between two parallel worlds, above us the walls of the river canyon loom large, and mirrored in the still water below they appear to sink towards an endless blue sky .

We’ve had a few for whom this landscape induces vertigo,

says Grant.

His form mirrored in the river as he talks,  I can see how easily the view could play tricks on the mind.

THE BRIDGE TO NOWHERE

On we paddle, towards the Whanganui’s most famous landmark, the abandoned Bridge to Nowhere.

Built in 1935 and now serving as a memorial to the efforts of the men and women who tried to develop the isolated valleys that surround the river , it sits alone amidst a jumble of lush forest.

Leaving our canoes on the Mangapurua Landing beneath the bridge, we scramble up the river bank and along a shaded forest path to the concrete structure.

Constructed of 105 cubic metres of concrete and 15 tonnes of steel, transporting the materials to the building site was a feat of engineering itself let along fabricating the bridge which sits some 40 metres above the water.

THE BRIDGE TO NOWHERE LODGE

Despite the failed efforts to populate the banks of the Whanganui, there are a few sporadic settlements along its shore. Launching our canoes back onto the water, we paddle for a further two hours before reaching the Bridge to Nowhere Lodge .

Set aside the water with unrestricted views of the river, this working farm offers respite to those adventurous enough to explore the Whanganui.

Accessible only by water, the property is blissfully unaware of the outside world, a tiny bubble of paradise removed from the sometimes overwhelming chaos of modern life.

“I have 20 kilometres of the most beautiful road in New Zealand,” owner Joe Adam says, as we gaze out along the river. “It’s the most scenic driveway in the country.”

It is here we spend the night and as the dawn breaks on our third and final day, my body urges me to remain in a cocoon of pillows and duvet.

PADDLING TO PIPIRIKI

For our first few hours on the water the gorge closes in and the river runs narrow and deep. Then the route widens and once again the smooth river rocks are visible beneath the surface.

As the canyon falls away and pastures green appear, a series of rapids are all that lay between us and our route end at the boat ramp in Pipiriki . Splashing through the waves, braced against the thin walls of our canoe, we bounce over the rapids with apparent ease.

One of the first of our fleet of four to tackle this last section of water, we sail straight through, the force of the water spitting us out into the calm embrace of deeper water.

The last canoe through is helmed by John and Phil, and as they enter the rapid it becomes clear that their choice of course has failed them. Skidding sideways into the rapid they begin to take on water, and as if in slow motion their canoe upends itself spilling them and their water tight barrels into the river.

Much splashing and a few choice phrases can be heard as we down paddles to watch, our canoe comes to a halt on the boat ramp as the pair swim to the riverbank. They’d obviously decided to finish this Great Walk on foot.

Want to follow in our footsteps? We joined the team at Canoe Safaris based in Ohakune, and opted for their 3 day guided voyageur excursion.

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Have you taken a canoe safari in New Zealand? Share your comments with us below!

Amazing photos Charli.

What an awesome trip. I haven’t heard about tripping down the Wanganui river before, definitely something that I will have to do when I get back to NZ. Scenery looks beautiful and can imagine it would have been a peaceful place to be.

Wow very nice article .I was looking where to spend my next holidays .Now i found this .Thank you 🙂

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Kia ora from New Zealand's Open Canoe Specialist.

Wilderness Canoe Trust provides exceptional canoe journeys into Aotearoa's great outdoors.

Real life adventures in canoes and bushcraft for people of all ages and backgrounds with a specific emphasis on developing a connection to nature and environmental awareness. Through a combination of journeying and team work, we foster holistic personal development through quality outdoor experiences.

Wilderness Canoe Trust is a Not for Profit Charitable Trust.

You can experience journeys from a few hours to a week long adventure, tailored to your requirements. Journeys are designed for School and Youth groups , Respite care for families , Accessible adventures for people with disabilities , Canoe camps for young people and Skills courses . Please explore the Canoe Trust at the top of the page.

Safety is our priority on all our journeys, explore About us / Safety to learn more. Wilderness Canoe Trust works hard to be as Ethically and Environmentally sound as possible.

- James Alker, Director Wilderness Canoe Trust [email protected]

Our Funders

The Wilderness Canoe Trust gratefully acknowledges the support of the following organisations:

Wilderness Canoe Trust

[email protected]

Our Location

Near Motueka, Top of the South Island, New Zealand We are mobile and can come to a suitable location near you.

028 414 0264

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• 5 Day Guided Whanganui National Park Canoe Safari

Pricing From $1445

Difficulty 2

Take a real vacation minus the TV and telephone on a 5 Day Guided Whanganui National Park Canoe Safari from Ohakune, New Zealand. Bring the kids along if you like. In this highly popular trip taking 5 days, the starting point is either Ohinepane or Whakahoro depending on river levels.

On the night before the trip, we meet you at Ohakune base to introduce you to your guides and to sort out river gear. Our base has 6 motel units where you can stay the night before the trip and the night after the trip. Doing so makes it easy for you and gives you plenty of time to get packed for the trip and ensure you have everything you need in your river barrels before we leave. We also have ample safe parking off-street, so it’s more convenient and quicker for you to get packed once you arrive.

Apart from your personal gear, we suggest you bring a sleeping bag. We take care of all the other things like tents and sleeping mats, as well as wine, food and cooking gear.

Tour Grading: B

Difficulty: 2

Start: Ohakune

Finish: Ohakune

Depart Ohakune between 7.30 and 8.00am for the river. At Ohinepane we unload canoes and barrels and show you how to pack your canoe.

The first day includes lunch at Poukaria Campsite, we paddle past the old riverboat landing at Kirikau and take a short walk at Marae Kowhai. View the Ohura falls, and the War and Peace Poles that were erected by the Hau Hau warriors. It's then a short paddle to the first nights camp at Maharanui.

The gorge starts to narrow and we leave the last road access point behind at Whakahoro—the second and final mooring point for the Houseboat. We pass Laceys and Wades landings and several old maori Kaianga.

Later in the morning we pass Mangapapa campsite, Man of War Bluff, Kirikiriroa where the river does a huge horseshoe turn, the Verandah, the Whirlpool and on down to Tamatea's Cave and a possible lunch stop at Ohauora campsite.

There is plenty of time for stops and there are safe places to get out and swim. Camp at John Coull Hut and campsite.

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 we see the first pine trees since Whakahoro (planted by the early settlers), and we 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 we paddle the last 1.5hrs down to Bridge to Nowhere Lodge. If the weather and time allows we also take a short walk at Tangahoe landing to the Tangahoe waterfall. Dinner and hot showers at the lodge or cabins. (Please note - book early to ensure a bed at the lodge)

After a leisurely breakfast there is a walk to the Matemateonga track and up to the Puketotara hut. View across to Mt Ruapehu. After returning to the lodge we are back on the river for a short paddle until lunch.

We pass Kahura landing and one of the locations for the filming of "River Queen". It is an hours paddle through the steep gorge until the river cascades through Ngaporo rapid and down to Ngaporo—our final campsite.

There is a big eddy to swim in, or a short paddle across the river to a waterfall for a cold shower! Dinner overlooking the river.

After breakfast we 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.

It's a fantastic trip for all ages—perfect for families and the kids will always have something to do.

Enquire Now!

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Planning your Rangitikei Or Whanganui River Canoe Trip and have some extra questions? See if we can answer them below!

How long does the Whanganui Journey Take?

This Varies on how many days you choose to spend exploring and Canoeing the Whanganui River and what you would personally like to get out of your trip. All Trips finish at the same point of Pipiriki and you can decide if you spend 3, 4 or 5 Days paddling your way there! The 3 and 4 Day Canoe Trips are both 90km From Whakahoro, the 5 Day Canoe Trip is 120km from Ohinepane. This may sound like a long distance to paddle! But your experienced guides help you work on your technique to help you navigate the river and it's rapids with ease. Even leaving time each day to explore a canyon, tributary or hidden waterfall!

How hard is the Whanganui River Canoe Journey? Do i have to be very fit?

Our customer age range is from 6 years old upto...well we have no limit! We have celebrated an 82nd Birthday on the majestic Whanganui River before! Our trips and the Whanganui River Journey do require a basic level of fitness and a strong, positive, can-do attitude. We won't lie to you - This Canoe journey can be a little physically demanding at times and you may use muscles you never knew you had! However, we like to tailor our suggestions for river trips to each customer. For example if you are a young, strong fit backpacker who is short on time, the 3 Day Whanganui Guided Tour may be perfect for you! And if you are a family of 5 with young children we will suggest a longer trip such as the 4 Day Whanganui Guided Tour so you are paddling less hours per day to avoid fatigue and lack of concentration with the kids and do an extra swim stop or rock jump! And If you are 60-80 years old we may recommend the 4 day trip or 5 day Guided Canoe Trip option to give you flexibility throughout each day to take it a bit slower and enjoy your surroundings a bit more. If you have physical limitations that you think may hinder your performance in a canoe.. you may be very, very wrong and we may have a way to help you complete this trip. You would be surprised who we have helped make it down the Whanganui River. (Wheelchairs won't stop us!) If you are unsure about your fitness levels and have some more specific questions or worries. Please don't hesitate to get in touch and we can talk more in detail.

What is the Weather Like on the Whanganui River?

Well, Well, Well. This is maybe our most frequently asked question! You are absolutely guaranteed to enjoy your Whanganui River trip come Rain or Shine. Rain isn't necessarily a negative thing! In fact, a little bit of rain can actually make your trip easier due to higher water and can also produce some spectacular waterfalls! Our Whanganui And Rangitikei River Trips operate from late September to the end Of April every year. In the early & late season (September - October & March - April) You will experience some chillier temperatures in the morning & evenings and the water will be colder than during peak summer months. We recommend the 3 Day trip in September & early October to make use of the huts and warm fires. During December to February you can usually expect high temperatures and long, sunny days with a few tropical rainy periods scattered here and there. It is during these months that the water is low and we recommend the 4 Day Guided Tour or the 5 Day Whanganui River Trip as the 3 Day trip can be a little rushed. Of course in any month, we have safety parameters that we VERY strictly stick to and we will never send you out in unsafe conditions

What our customers say

We did a family 4 day guided canoe trip, it was absolutely amazing. Very professional, our guides Morgan and Aiden were very knowledgeable and friendly. The food was way above expectation and the memories we have made will be with us forever. Highly recommend.

Leeann Morgan

This was out and out one of the best experiences I've ever had. The trip exceeded my expectations in every department. The hospitality was second to none and the care taken for all of us was outstanding. Safety was never forgotten and was balanced with a load of fun and great humour...

Simon Christie

We were part of a group of 8 friends doing the 3 day trip with Phil and Wai as guides. They were both terrific and very organised. Phil is excellent explaining how to manoeuvre through the rapids and the safety control was first class.

peaceful, primal, professional, Challenging, adrenalin - I experienced all of these on a three day trip down the Whanganui river with a group of 18 people and two amazing guides - Simon and Aiden. These guys worked tirelessly to ensure we were kept safe and well fed and were happy to share their...

Michele Laurie

Had the most enjoyable trip in my life. Took the 4 day canoe safari down the Wanganui river. We thoroughly enjoyed it, couldn't have asked for better guides, Erin and Jordan. Their knowledge and expertise was invaluable. The scenery was out of this world, at times we felt as though no one...

Sharon Gamble

This was the best family trip ever! Three course meals, a wealth of knowledge from our awesome guides, and no devices, were just three reasons we would highly recommend this adventure. Phil and Simon were amazing guides and worked from the moment we were collected for our trip to the moment we...

Richard Beechey

SIMPLY SENSATIONAL. Just completed the 3 day trip. Our guides Wilson and Gregor were fantastic. Cool, clear, calm (even when I tipped the wife out of our canoe). Always felt safe, always felt informed. The food was sensational. From the time we were greeted to the time we departed, I was very...

Warren J, Christchurch, NZ

We had a magic 4 days on the Whanganui thanks to Kirsty Phil Keira and Jackson. The equipment, food, guiding and training were faultless. Phil's instruction was enough to make us confident on the river without overloading two novices and Keira's and Jackson's enthusiasm and...

Larry B, New Zealand

We did the 5 day, fully guided and catered river journey, with our four children and three other families. This was truly one of the best holidays we have ever had. Phil and Ian, our guides, organised every detail. It was enormous fun canoeing down the river, jumping off rocks and canyoning. We...

Sarah Scott-Brown

A couple of good mates decided we'd do this trip some time ago and Canoe Safari's helped make it happen. Alex, Bailey, Lesley and Canon our guides / hosts were absolutely amazing. Scenery was stunning - seems like little has changed on the landscape in hundreds of years... still...