Whanganui River Canoe 1 Day Trip: Lavender Farm
If you’re keen to explore the Whanganui River but short on time, our fully guided 1-Day Lavender Farm Canoe Trip offers the perfect solution. Designed for families, beginners, and those wanting a scenic, laid-back paddle with some fun rapids.
DEPARTURE: Cherry Grove, Taumaranui.
DIFFICULTY LEVEL: Easy Rider
DATES: Depart on demand, October to May
Lavender Farm Itinerary
Your day starts in Ohakune, where we meet at our base before heading to the launch point in Taumarunui. If you'd like to make the trip even more relaxed, consider staying at our on-site lodge the night before.
The paddle itself takes around five hours, covering 22km of scenic waterway. The river flows at an easy pace, with stretches of calm water and a few fun, bouncy rapids that add just the right amount of excitement while still being beginner-friendly. Towering native bush lines the riverbanks, home to abundant birdlife and a landscape that feels worlds away from the everyday.
Halfway through, we will stop for a filling and fresh lunch prepared by your guide, then after some more time on the water we will take a break at one of the highlights of the day, the Lavender Farm Café, a charming spot where you can stretch your legs, unwind, enjoy a drink, and take in the vibrant purple lavender fields. After soaking up the scenery, we continue downstream to the take-out point, where our shuttle will be waiting to bring you back to Ohakune.
A Glimpse Into the History of the Whanganui River
Beyond its stunning scenery, the Whanganui River has played an important role in the history of Aotearoa. Once a key transport route for Māori iwi and early European settlers, the river still holds reminders of its past.
As you paddle, you’ll see the remains of century-old rock weirs, carefully built to help riverboats navigate the waterways. The surrounding native forest has remained largely unchanged for centuries, making this trip feel like a journey through time.
By the end of the day, you’ll arrive at the Lavender Farm Café, the perfect spot to take a final break before heading back to Ohakune. If you’re looking for a relaxing day outdoors or taking a first step toward a longer paddling adventure, this trip offers a memorable way to experience the Whanganui River. Our experienced guides ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, even when paddling solo or sharing the adventure in a six-person voyager canoe.
Want to spend more time on the river? Check out our other 2, 3, 4, or 5-day Whanganui River canoe trips for a deeper exploration of this incredible region.
