New Zealand’s Great Walks: The Whanganui River Trip

From rapids and whirlpools to untamed nature, you’ll enjoy an array of thrilling experiences while canoeing New Zealand’s Whanganui River. This NZ Great Walk is a 145km river journey over 5 days although smaller sections can be completed in a lesser amount of time, but hey! - why not make the most of your experience and go the for the full shebang and join us for a 5 Day Guided Whanganui River Trip if you have the time. It might make those of you with feet firmly set upon dry land a little apprehensive, but it should be on every Kiwis bucket list. Find out what to expect on this once-in-a-lifetime adventure and discover how it earnt its place among the Great Walks of New Zealand.

If you are completing the challenging and rewarding Te Araroa Trail then we can tailor things to suit you to ensure your transition from one section to another is as smooth as can be. If you need gear transported to the end point to ensure you can carry on the trail from there - No Problem!.  If you need us to meet you at the rivers edge for the start of the tour - No Problem!  

(Scroll down to find a Whanganui River Map for reference with reading this guide)

Day 1: Taumaranui to Ohinepane Campsite

During the first day, you’ll pass through a mixture of rolling hills and rising valleys, with nothing but the telltale song of the native bird on the wind, reminding you of the truly untouched nature of the area. A  very healthy set of rapids will soon shake you out of your trance, lest you risk taking an unwanted swim this early into the trip. Depending on the time of year, most of our 5 day tours actually start from Ohinepane, this is due to the technical nature of the upper section that can change with every storm or flood with new obstacles and hazards created. And as it isn't a section of river that is technically inside the Whanganui National park itself, we prefer to keep our clients safe and happy by entering just a little bit lower at Ohinepane, avoiding a potential risky situation and setting you all up for success straight away. We are always happy to discuss alternative itineraries to suit each group.

Day 2: Ohinepane Campsite to Whakahoro Campsite

From here, you’ll paddle deeper into the rich and rugged landscape and the beginnings of the Whanganui National Park. Farms become fewer, hills rise, and native forests begin to dominate. Rapids punctuate this stretch of river; you’ll need to navigate successfully to avoid a baptism in the Whanganui.

Day 3: Whakahoro Campsite to John Coull Hut

Whakahoro is where the wilderness truly begins. You’ll pass through towering gorges, dripping with moss and ferns, made more spectacular by the numerous waterfalls bursting from the valley walls. A circular trip will take you around the Kirikiriroa Peninsula before reaching the wāhi tapu or sacred place of Tamatea’s Cave. It’s a long day of paddling, so you may feel it in your arms by the end of it. For anyone wanting to complete a section of the journey in 3 or 4 days, this is where you will begin.

Day 4: John Coull Hut and Campsite to Tieke Kāinga

The stunning scenery continues on day four. Bush-covered hills and the river mouths of Tangaraku and Whangamomoma greet paddles as they meander down the river. Once you arrive at Mangapurua Landing, there’s a chance to stretch your legs and walk on this Great Walk. A 45-minute excursion through the surrounding forest will take you to the iconic Bridge to Nowhere.

Day 5: Tieke Kāinga to Pipiriki

On the final day, you’ll pass the narrow gorge of the Manganuioteao River as it completes its journey from the slopes of Ruapehu into the Whanganui River. If you’ve managed to stay dry his long, the final day might have other plans for you, The final rapids are notorious for testing your canoe skills in this short but sweet last leg of the journey.  

Experience a Great Walk Like Never Before

The Wanganui River journey demands its place within New Zealand’s Great Walks due to its breathtaking scenery that has you paddling back through Aotearoa’s past. Want to experience this adventure for yourself but have no canoeing experience? No problem! Canoe Safaris offers a range of guided tours with experienced instructors, from single-day trips to multi-day journeys. To really experience the beauty of the national park we recommend spending a minimum of 3 days on your tour, and if you have the flexibility then opt for the relaxed pace 4 Day Guided Whanganui River Tour or the full 5 Day Trip.  

Booking your Whanganui River Journey with Canoe Safaris means you are guaranteed to have an amazing time, rain or shine.  With everything included, you just need to bring a smile and a sense of adventure. We take care of the rest - Spacious tents, comfortable & thick mattresses, all gourmet food, Safety equipment, transport to and from the river.....  We take care of everything to ensure your focus is on making the most of the Wonderful Whanganui Wilderness.

Book now; the river is waiting! We can't wait to see you out there!

Posted by Canoe Safaris on September 10, 2024