FAQs

We'll take care of your transportation needs. Canoe Safaris offers a shuttle service to and from the Whanganui River from our Ohakune base - this shuttle is included in the cost of your tour. You can safely leave your vehicle in our private off-street car park while you're away. We also have a secure office for storing small valuables that you don't want to leave in your car or take on the river.

While capsizing on the Whanganui River is a possibility, don't worry – our expert guides are always on hand to help. With their friendly guidance and extensive canoeing knowledge, you'll learn how to navigate the river and improve your canoeing skills to minimise the risk of tipping out.

That being said, even with the best preparation, unexpected moments can happen. A slight loss of balance, a rapid, or even a premature celebration can send you into the water. But remember, you'll be wearing a life jacket at all times, so the key is to stay calm. Listen to your guide's clear instructions, and they'll have you back in your canoe in no time, laughing off the experience.

For a hassle-free experience, consider staying at our onsite Canoe Safaris Lodge, conveniently located in the heart of Ohakune. Consider arriving the day before your trip to get settled, and take advantage of our private off-street parking and hot tub facilities.

Our lodge rooms are perfect for families or small groups, with an ensuite, kitchenette, and comfortable bedding (Queen, Single and optional pull-out sofabed) for up to four, or five people. 

After your Whanganui River adventure, and for a fully relaxing getaway - why not treat yourself? Stay and unwind in our comfortable surroundings, head into town and enjoy a well deserved meal at one of Ohakune's many eateries. Read our Guide to Ohakune's restaurants.

Ohakune can be a great base to tick off some other local, fun activities - For an action packed getaway, after your canoe trip, hire a bike and test yourself on one of the many Ohakune bike trails,

Your experienced river guide will provide a clear and comprehensive paddle and safety briefing at the river's edge before you set off. Throughout your journey, they'll share expert tips and techniques to help you navigate the river with confidence, improve your canoeing skills, and minimise the risk of tip-outs. 

Upon booking and In the build up to your departure, you will also receive helpful pre trip information and tips to help you with your planning and preparation, the Canoe Safaris Team are available on the phone or email to answer any questions before you arrive.

Consider what you want to achieve on your Whanganui River adventure. Are you seeking an action-packed, fast-paced experience suited to our 3 Day Canoe Tour? Or a relaxed journey with time to hone your canoeing skills and explore hidden gems on our 4 Day Whanganui River Guided Tour? Or do you want to fully immerse yourself in the wilderness on our 5-Day Whanganui Canoe Trip?

To help you decide, we recommend exploring the Whanganui River map to familiarise yourself with the area. While the journey may take you out of your comfort zone, trust us – the stunning scenery and unforgettable experiences will make every kilometre worthwhile!

Along the Whanganui River Journey you will find many Department of Conservation river campsites, including Ohinepane, Ohauora, Mangapurua, Whakahoro, John Coull, and more. These sites provide the basic cooking and bathroom amenities you would need and are evenly spaced out to maximise your camping experience.

There are a few options for alternative accommodations such as hut and cabin upgrades depending on tour length and group size. 
 

The full Whanganui River Journey spans 120km -145km over 5 days, from Taumaranui to Pipiriki. Alternatively, You can opt for a shorter 3 or 4 day adventure, paddling 90km from Whakahoro to Pipiriki through the breathtaking Whanganui National Park.

Our Whanganui River Canoe tours cater to a wide age range, from 6 years old to 82+! While a basic level of fitness and a positive attitude are essential, we tailor our trips to suit each customer's needs. Whether you're a young backpacker, a family with young children, or an active retiree, we have options to suit your fitness level and preferences.

If you have physical limitations or concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out. We've helped many people with disabilities complete the journey, and we're committed to making it accessible to everyone. Our expert guides will work with you to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Contact us to discuss your specific needs and concerns – we're here to help!

The Whanganui River rapids are classified as Grade 1 and 2, making it an ideal destination for beginners. With the New Zealand River Grading system topping out at Grade 6, our rapids are characterized as 'moving water with small, unchallenging waves' or 'easily seen rapids with wide channels and minimal navigation required'. Your expert guide will instruct you on navigating these rapids, ensuring a fun and safe experience.

The Whanganui River journey is indeed one of New Zealand's 10 Great Walks, but with a unique twist - you get to explore it by canoe or kayak! This 3-5 day adventure takes you through stunning green gorges, exciting rapids, and a rich cultural heritage within the Whanganui National Park.

When planning your trip, keep in mind that the best time to canoe the Whanganui River is during the warmer months from October to April, with optimal conditions typically found between December and March.

Join us on the Whanganui River at any age! Our Guided Whanganui River Tours have a minimum age requirement of 6 years old. If you're renting a canoe or kayak without a guide, the minimum age is 15 years old. We welcome adventurers of all ages – there's no upper limit!

This is maybe our most frequently asked question! Don't worry, rain won't dampen your Whanganui River experience! In fact, a little rain can make your trip easier with higher water levels and create spectacular waterfalls. Our trips operate from September to April, with varying conditions:

• Early/late season (Sept-Oct, Mar-Apr): Cooler mornings and evenings, colder water. Recommended: 3-Day trip with hut stays and warm fires.
• Peak summer (Dec-Feb): Warm temperatures, sunny days, and occasional tropical rain. Recommended: 4-Day or 5-Day trips, as the 3-Day trip might feel rushed.
   

Rest assured, we have strict operating parameters, are constantly monitoring weather and river level forecasts. We prioritise your safety and will never send you out in unsafe conditions.