Kayak & Canoe Tours
Family-friendly Tours
Day Tours
Wilderness Scenery and Historic Highlights
The Whanganui River flows through a stunning landscape rich with both Māori and European history. From waterfalls cascading into sheer gorges to tranquil bush-lined stretches, every bend of the river reveals something new. A highlight is the famous Bridge to Nowhere, a poignant landmark that connects today’s journey with the stories of the past.
As you paddle, your private guides ensure the trip is tailored to suit your pace, fitness level, and preferences. Whether you want more time for photography, to soak in the history, or simply enjoy the thrill of the rapids, this personalised canoe adventure offers a unique way to experience the Whanganui National Park.
- Private guide(s)
- Transport between the start and end of the tour and the base
- All canoe equipment: canoe, dry barrels for your gear, PFDs (personal flotation devices), paddles
- All clothing hire
Extra Options:
- Lunch. Two options are available: standard or vegetarian.
- Return accommodation transfers from Taupo CBD, Turangi, or Whakapapa Village
- Fitness Level: A basic level of fitness is required.
- Experience: No canoeing experience is needed, but you must be confident in the water.
- The Rapids: This section features Level 1 rapids. They are easily navigable with directions and instructions from your guide.
- Capsize Risk: While capsizes are uncommon, they can happen. Our professional, qualified, and experienced guides are fully trained to handle this.
- Preparation: You will receive a full safety briefing, paddling training, and instructions on what to do if you fall out.
Children: 11 years & under must receive approval before joining the tour
Gear List
Summer
- Water bottle
- Personal medications (e.g. Asthma Inhaler, blister protection etc)
- Sun hat, sunscreen, sunglasses
- Covered sandals
- Shorts
- 1 light top and 2 warm top layers (wool, merino, thermals, fleece, soft shell etc. are good layers)
- Waterproof raincoat
- 1 set of spare warm clothing to change into at the end of the day
- Own lunch if not ordered via Adrift at time of bookingP
In any adventure activity there is an element of risk involved. Examples in undertaking this activity are: hypothermia, slipping on ice and/or loose terrain, and volcanic eruptions to name some. The staff & management of Adrift Tongariro take all practical steps to manage, mitigate, and at times eliminate, exposure to potential danger. Clients must follow our instructions & use the safety equipment provided at all times. Adults accompanying any person under the age of 18 must ensure that the underage person follows our instructions at all times.
We reserve the right to withdraw any person who in our opinion is likely to endanger themselves or others. We also reserve the right to cancel the trip if we become concerned for any reason for your safety or that of another person.
You agree to release or indemnify Adrift Tongariro and our staff against any liability we incur to anyone else resulting from your failure to follow our instructions or the failure of any person accompanying you under the age of 18 to follow our instructions.
- 14 days or more before travel: Full refund**
- Within 14 days: No Refund
- Postponements within 14 days: Reschedule allowed within 12 months, subject to availability & approval. No refunds if subsequently cancelled.
- Insufficient group size: Options to pay extra, reschedule within a year, or get a refund**
- Weather-related cancellations: Safe alternative provided, or option to reschedule within a year, or receive a refund*
*Note: Any refund approved under our terms and conditions will be subject to a 5% admin & processing fee, which will be deducted from the refund amount. Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.*
