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.
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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.
Wildlife
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.
Taumarunui Canoe Hire and Jet Boat Tours
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 Canoe Hire and Jet Boat Tours operates from Taumarunui in Manawatū-Whanganui, offering canoe hire and guided river journeys on the Whanganui River. The company runs a range of day and multi-day trips that travel between key river towns — including Taumarunui, Ohinepane, Whakahoro and Pipiriki — and includes one-day, multi-day and extended itineraries.
Trips include a one-day Taumarunui to Ohinepane paddle over 22 kilometres with provided gear and safety briefings; two-day routes from Taumarunui to Whakahoro; multi-day options such as Taumarunui to Pipiriki over five days (or five days stretched to six) and Ohinepane to Pipiriki over four days. There are also Whakahoro to Pipiriki three- and four-day options. Many itineraries highlight Whanganui National Park scenery, waterfalls, rapids, rock formations and camping at Department of Conservation sites. Some departures include support such as transport, equipment, on-site amenities, private boat ramp access and complimentary treats as described in trip summaries.
The operator provides canoe hire, guided navigation of river rapids, and jet boat services for transfers and logistic support as stated in the business name and trip details. Safety briefings and necessary gear are supplied on trips where noted. Routes traverse iconic sights such as the Bridge to Nowhere and native bush habitats, offering wildlife viewing opportunities. This factual summary focuses on the services, locations, and trip formats Taumarunui Canoe Hire and Jet Boat Tours lists for visitors seeking river adventures on the Whanganui River.
Tours Offered
7 trips
Day and multi-day options
Base Location
Taumarunui
Manawatū-Whanganui base
River
Whanganui River
River routes and rapids
Trip Lengths
1–6 days
From one day to six days
Select a one-day or multi-day trip, confirm gear and transfers, and prepare for a guided river experience on the Whanganui River.
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.
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.
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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.