New Zealand

The Whanganui River - Canoeing

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The Whanganui National Park has rugged terrain covered in lush native forest with the Whanganui River flowing through it. The river from Taumarunui to Pipiriki is part of the Department of Conservation ‘Great Walk' network. The 3 day Whakahoro to Pipiriki section is the most popular canoeing section. From Whakahoro, the only access out is by canoe and this remoteness with forest filtered fresh air makes for a rejuvenating holiday. The Canadian Canoes used, are well suited for the rapids and the long still water of the gorges and they hold plenty of gear. Luxuries are a must!

Whanganui River Canoeing New Zealand is rich with Maori and European history, the largest reminder of which, is the famous ‘Bridge to Nowhere'. Just like the early explorers, you will see the spectacular sheer gorges rising hundreds of metres to distant ridges and hopefully hear a Kiwi calling, while eating dinner under the stars.

Your guides are qualified, experienced and personable, whose sole purpose is to ensure you have a safe, enjoyably and memorable adventure. There are many marvels and obstacles on the journey where our guides willingly offer their experience and anecdotes. Equally there are times where you are left to absorb the tranquillity and solitude.

We have guided clients of all ages, between 4, and our favourite, a beautiful 84 years young!

Itinerary

Recommend River Routes

All itineraries are a suggestion only, and will be altered to meet with your needs and wishes. We have itineraries for 1-5 day trips. However the 3 day trips are the most popular for guided and freedom hire adventures.

if doing the one day trip from Taumarunui to Ohinepane, this section of river has a larger frequency of rapids some of which are technical, requiring a guide.

3-day Whakahoro to Pipiriki

Previous Day
Arrive at National Park Village. Make contact with us and pick-up your dry barrels.

Day 1  Whakahoro to John Coull Hut

You will be picked up from your accommodation about 8.00am. This day involves a 6-hour paddle to John Coull Hut. We will be passing the Mangapapa and Ohauora campsites at 2 hrs and 4-hrs paddling, respectively. Just before the Ohauora Campsite is Tamatea's Cave.

Day 2   John Coull Hut to Tieke Marae
Today we have a 5-hour paddle from John Coull Hut to Tieke Marae. Passing Mangawaiti and the Upper Mangapurua campsites at one and a half hour intervals. Just before the Mangapurua Campsite is the track up to the Bridge to Nowhere (1.5 hour return walk).

Day 3   Tieke Marae to Pipiriki
From Tieke, it is a four hour paddle to Pipiriki and at 2 pm we will be met by our transport which will take us back to National Park Village by 4.30 pm. But before that, where we will pass the Ngaporo Campsite, successfully negotiate the 3 largest rapids of the journey including the Ngaporo Rapid and the infamous Autapu Rapid. WhoHa!

General Terms and Conditions

Prices are based on a minimum of 2 people. Single customers will be accepted upon availability with a surcharge. If possible and agreeable, single customers will be placed into a group, with no surcharge.

Pick up from Taupo, Turangi or Ohakune has a surcharge. Minimum numbers apply.

Depending on the group and activity, restrictions will apply in regard to age, level of fitness, and standard of health that is required. These restrictions will apply in the instance of safety and general enjoyment of the whole group. Where possible, we will offer an alternative option to accommodate clients. All trips have a minimum of clothing and equipment requirements that clients must adhere to. In the instance of clients being under the influence of drugs or alcohol, refusal will be automatic and no refund will be issued.

Bookings

NZ$100 pp non refundable deposit is required to confirm any booking.

Payment in full is required prior to commencement of the adventure.

Cancellation

In the event of bad weather an alternative adventure will be offered that is safe. We reserve the right to cancel an adventure should we consider the weather to cause too high a risk.

Cancellation of an adventure by the customer - If possible, we will organise for the you to join another party on a similar trip. If this is undesirable, the confirmation fee is forfeited. If you cancel with 30 days notice then a full refund will be made. No refund will be made on cancellations within 30 days of the start of the adventure.

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