moderate
3 days
Participants should have a moderate level of fitness to handle daily paddling and campsite setups.
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.
For ages 7+! • Adult $220, Youth $185 (Under 18 year)
SPECIAL PRICE: Adult $220pp Youth $185pp (Under 18 years)
3 Days
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:
• 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);
If the date selected is not available for reasons, Karen will contact you to rearrange the schedule for you.
Launching your paddle sessions early allows for calmer water conditions and more daylight to explore campsites.
Keep your essentials dry with water-resistant bags or dry sacks, crucial for a canoe trip.
Observe all signage and maintain distance from culturally sensitive areas along the river.
Weather can change quickly; plan accordingly to avoid paddling in strong winds or heavy rain.
The Whanganui River was the first river in the world granted legal personhood status in 2017, reflecting its cultural significance to local Maori.
Visitors are encouraged to practice leave-no-trace principles to protect this pristine river corridor.
A durable, lightweight paddle eases your journey and reduces fatigue.
Essential for protecting clothing, electronics, and food from river spray and rain.
spring specific
Handy for cooking meals at campsites; some stops may offer cooking facilities.