Whanganui River Canoe Adventure with Taumarunui Canoe Hire
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
6 days (approx. 5 days paddling)
Fitness Level
Participants should have moderate fitness with some experience carrying gear and paddling suitable for river conditions.
Overview
Paddle a 6-day canoe route down New Zealand’s Whanganui River with Taumarunui Canoe Hire. Navigate rapids, waterfalls, and native bush while camping at pristine sites on this unique Great Walk water journey.
Taumarunui to Pipiriki - 5 Day Over 6 Days
For ages 7+ • Recommended! : Adult $270pp, Youth $225pp (Under 18)
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About This Adventure
Embark on a thrilling 6-day canoe journey down New Zealand's stunning Whanganui River, navigating exhilarating rapids and lush landscapes. Experience breathtaking waterfalls, unique rock formations, and pristine campsites. With a private boat ramp and comprehensive support, this adventure promises unforgettable memories in one of the world's most scenic locales.
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
Adult $270pp Youth $225pp (Under 18 years)
Duration
6 Days
About
This journey has it all. With our private boat ramp on-site at our Taumarunui home base, it means that after the morning safety briefing, you can jump straight on the river with no driving time. If you want to take an extra day this is no problem at all, but this must be booked and may be extra cost depending on how busy we are.
This is New Zealand's only Great Walk trip that you can canoe. This Whanganui River journey begins at Taumarunui and finishes at Pipiriki. It covers 145 km through exhilarating rapids, breath-taking scenery, gorgeous waterfalls, rock formations to paddle through the middle of, farmland, native bush, and some of the best DoC campsites which you miss if you book a shorter journey.
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 30L, 60L
- 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 a 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
Master River Hazards
Review the provided safety briefing videos and maps to anticipate rapids and other river obstacles before setting off each day.
Pack Lightweight
Limit gear to essentials stored in waterproof barrels to stay dry and maintain canoe balance during rapids.
Reserve Campsites Early
Popular Department of Conservation campsites fill quickly – book your spots well in advance to guarantee safe overnight stays.
Prepare for Variable Weather
Bring layered clothing and waterproof gear to stay comfortable through changing temperatures and wet conditions.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Kōkako (blue-wattled crow)
- Long-tailed bats
History
The Whanganui River holds deep spiritual significance for Māori and was the first river granted legal personhood status in 2017.
Conservation
Efforts to protect native bush and water quality on the Whanganui include restricting motorized craft and promoting sustainable camping practices.
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Adventure Hotspots in Hamilton
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof Dry Bags
Protects your gear from river spray and unexpected immersion.
Layered Clothing
Allows you to adjust to fluctuating temperatures and weather throughout the day.
all specific
Quality Paddle
An efficient paddle ensures control, especially through rapids.
Sturdy River Shoes
Protect and grip slippery and uneven riverbank terrain during portages and camps.