Adventure Collective
Explore New Zealand’s Whanganui River: Whakahoro to Pipiriki 3-Day Canoe Adventure - Taumarunui

Explore New Zealand’s Whanganui River: Whakahoro to Pipiriki 3-Day Canoe Adventure

Taumarunuimoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

3 days

Fitness Level

Participants should have a moderate level of fitness to handle daily paddling and campsite setups.

Overview

Discover the wilds of New Zealand’s Whanganui River on a three-day canoe trip from Whakahoro to Pipiriki. Experience native forests, volcanic cliffs, and cultural heritage on this accessible river journey.

Taumarunui, Manawatū-Whanganui

Whakahoro to Pipiriki - 3 Day

For ages 7+! • Adult $220, Youth $185 (Under 18 year)

Water Activities

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About This Adventure

Take a trip through the many exciting rapids and lush native bush with some of the best scenic landscaping in the world, all found right here on the incredible Whanganui River

Prices

SPECIAL PRICE: Adult $220pp Youth $185pp (Under 18 years)

Duration

3 Days

About

After Whakahoro there is no road access to the river until Pipiriki. The 3 day trip travels through the river gorges with beautiful scenery and native wildlife in the Whanganui National Park.

The first day of this journey is not for the faint-hearted, it takes just over an hour to drive from our Taumarunui base to the starting point at Whakahoro, pack your boats, then a 5 hour paddle to Ohauora campsite or a 7 hour paddle to the John Coull campsite/hut. This can be too much for families or older people.

In this case, you could do the 3 day journey over 4 days so you can relax more or you could choose to do the 4 day journey listed on our website, you will then only have a 20 minute drive to Ohinepane to start your journey, and either a 5 hour paddle to Maharanui campsite or a 6 hour paddle to Whakahoro campsite/hut. Doing the 4 day journey instead of the 3 day journey will cut up to 2.5 hours off your first day while you are getting used to the canoe and the river.

What is included in your Whanganui journey with us:

  • Transport to and from the river* (Taumarunui, Ohinepane, Whakahoro, Pipiriki)
  • Canoe (2p) or Kayak (1p)
  • Waterproof Barrels
  • Life Jackets
  • Comprehensive Maps with hazards and photos of campsites
  • Paddles (spare paddle)
  • Comprehensive Safety Briefing in person, and video of the hazards
  • Free Camping before your journey with boat ramp onsite
  • WIFI in the campsite
  • Showers and Toilets
  • Complimentary Barista coffee on the morning of your journey along with a treat
  • On the water paddle briefing and practice before you leave
  • Home Baking and juice at Pickup for multi-day journeys. (Council Certified Baking)
  • Carparking / Vehicle storage at our Base
  • Backpack and suitcase storage
  • We can bring your backpacks and suitcases to the pickup point if you want to get out at Pipiriki, Raetihi or National Park
  • Free Drop off at Raetihi (Intercity Bus) National Park or Taumarunui

Our prices do not include the following:

• Department of Conservation Campsites/Huts; • Private accommodation (e.g. Posh Pioneers, Whakahoro, Bridge to Nowhere Campsite/Hut or Lodge); • Camping gear (can be hired from us);

Please note:

If the date selected is not available for reasons, Karen will contact you to rearrange the schedule for you.

Adventure Tips

Start Early Each Day

Launching your paddle sessions early allows for calmer water conditions and more daylight to explore campsites.

Pack Water-Resistant Gear

Keep your essentials dry with water-resistant bags or dry sacks, crucial for a canoe trip.

Respect Local Maori Sites

Observe all signage and maintain distance from culturally sensitive areas along the river.

Check Weather Forecasts

Weather can change quickly; plan accordingly to avoid paddling in strong winds or heavy rain.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Blue duck (whio)
  • New Zealand fantail

History

The Whanganui River was the first river in the world granted legal personhood status in 2017, reflecting its cultural significance to local Maori.

Conservation

Visitors are encouraged to practice leave-no-trace principles to protect this pristine river corridor.

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Adventure Hotspots in Taumarunui

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Lightweight Canoe Paddle

Essential

A durable, lightweight paddle eases your journey and reduces fatigue.

Waterproof Dry Bags

Essential

Essential for protecting clothing, electronics, and food from river spray and rain.

Comfortable Quick-Dry Clothing

Essential

spring specific

Camping Stove

Handy for cooking meals at campsites; some stops may offer cooking facilities.