Explore New Zealand’s Whanganui River: The Ultimate Bridge to Nowhere Adventure
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
6-7 hours
Fitness Level
Good general fitness required for walking and paddling sections, suitable for ages 7 and up.
Overview
Set off on a thrilling jet boat ride, scenic walk, and peaceful canoe trip along New Zealand’s Whanganui River to the iconic Bridge to Nowhere. Discover stunning gorges, native bush, and rich local history in this unforgettable outdoor adventure.
Onedayer Adventure
Ages 7+! • 7 hours • Great for couples and families! • The Ultimate Adventure!
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About This Adventure
Embark on a captivating journey to the "Bridge to Nowhere," starting with a thrilling 55-minute jet boat ride through stunning gorges. Enjoy a guided walk along historic trails, savor lunch at this iconic site, and conclude with a scenic canoe adventure back to Pipiriki, rich in local stories and breathtaking views.
A tour that will surprise you with special thoughts of what might have been?
Duration:
7 hours
About:
The fascinating story of the Bridge to Nowhere. In 1917 the Government opened up the valley for settlement by servicemen returning from the great war. About 35 holdings were developed.The first job was to clear virgin bush.
Bridging the Mangapurua stream was always a problem, a swing bridge was the early access, but a better bridge was promised, the replacement bridge, now known as THE BRIDGE TO NOWHERE was eventually started in 1935, opened in June 1936. After a major flood in January 1942 funds were declined for maintenance, eventually the valley was officially closed in May 1942.
It’s past history has so many stories to tell and all that remains is it’s beauty of abandoned farmland regenerating back to it’s natural podocarp forest and a bridge built in the middle of nowhere with reminders of past memories of those families who once lived there and decaying remnants of once was treasures and old home sites of the Returned Soldiers in that era of the Riverboats. This tour is one of the most memorable experiences that brings you so close to an era of the past and present time, a tour that will surprise you with special thoughts of what might have been?
More info:
(Minimum 2 pax for canoe part) The tour departs from Pipiriki with a 55 minute jet boat journey upriver 32 kms to the Mangapurua Landing, through an area of spectacular natural features with deep river gorges covered with green tree ferns and lush native vegetation. With your guide we will take you on an easy grade 40 minute walk from the Mangapurua landing following in the footsteps of the early pioneers along the old roadway to the “BRIDGE TO NOWHERE” where you will stop for lunch on this historical monument of a bygone era and learn the history from your local guide.
The tour then includes Jet boat back down river 22kms and do an unguided 2 hours canoe or kayak (last 10 kms) back to Pipiriki stopping and exploring along the way.
We provide:
Tea, coffee, hot chocolate and Biscuits
What to bring:
Lunch, drinking water
Suitable walking footwear and warm jacket
Light clothing for canoeing
(NO DENIM TROUSERS)
Bring a spare change of clothing for afterwards
Sunscreen/hat
Sunglasses
Adventure Tips
Wear suitable footwear
Bring sturdy, waterproof walking shoes for the historic trail to the Bridge to Nowhere.
Avoid denim
Denim trousers are not recommended for canoeing; opt for quick-drying clothing instead.
Bring sun protection
Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are vital to protect against sun exposure during the river segments.
Pack a spare change of clothes
After canoeing, a dry set of clothing helps you stay comfortable for the trip’s end.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Fantail
- Kereru (New Zealand pigeon)
History
The Bridge to Nowhere was built to serve a remote farming settlement abandoned after WWII, marking a poignant piece of local pioneer history.
Conservation
Whanganui River National Park is New Zealand’s first legal personhood river to recognize its ecological and spiritual significance; respect for these values is integral on all trips.
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Adventure Hotspots in Pipiriki
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof walking shoes
Necessary for the historic trail and wet riverbanks.
Quick-drying clothing
Lightweight apparel ideal for canoeing and variable river weather.
Hat and sunglasses
Protects face and eyes during sun-exposed paddling.
summer specific
Drybag
Keeps personal belongings safe and dry on the water.