Join the Original Mail Tour in Whanganui for a unique blend of adventure, history, and stunning scenery. Deliver mail, visit historic sites, and enjoy the natural beauty of New Zealand’s North Island.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Basic mobility and stamina are sufficient; no special fitness required.
Wildlife
History
The Whanganui River has been a vital route for local Māori and early settlers, and its route was officially designated as a national park in 1986.
Conservation
This tour emphasizes sustainable practices by respecting the environment and promoting awareness of local ecological efforts.
Whanganui Tours
Join the Original Mail Tour in Whanganui for a unique blend of adventure, history, and stunning scenery. Deliver mail, visit historic sites, and enjoy the natural beauty of New Zealand’s North Island.
Whanganui Tours is a locally based tour and transport operator located in Pipiriki in the Manawatū-Whanganui Region. The business provides scheduled and private shuttle services across the Whanganui corridor and to regional destinations including Ohakune and Palmerston North.
Beyond shuttle transport, Whanganui Tours operates the Original Mail Tour along the Whanganui River Road, guided by a local host, Tracy, with historical commentary, scenic stops and a morning tea visit including sites such as the Jerusalem Convent. For independent exploration the operator hires e-bikes and mountain bikes in multiple sizes (x-large, large, medium and small) and offers accessory logistics such as shuttles to trailheads and door-to-door luggage transfers to support cycle touring.
Services are presented for event connections, bus and train transfers, inter-town travel and recreational touring. Equipment and vehicles are positioned to serve a range of fitness levels and trip types, from leisurely river rides to longer cycle itineraries. Scheduling, pricing and booking information is available directly from Whanganui Tours. The business serves visitors and residents along the Whanganui River corridor and the wider Manawatū-Whanganui Region and focuses on delivering practical, locally informed transport and touring options.
Base Location
Pipiriki
Central on the Whanganui River Road
Bike Fleet
E-bikes & MTBs
Sizes from small to x-large
Shuttle Routes
Whanganui–Ohakune, Palmerston North, Pipiriki
Flexible inter-town transport options
Tours Offered
11 experiences
Guided and self-guided river experiences
Reserve a shuttle, hire an e-bike or join the Original Mail Tour to experience the Whanganui River Road with local logistics and support.
Dress comfortably and wear sturdy shoes
You’ll be walking and possibly getting your feet wet, so comfortable footwear and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended.
Bring a camera or smartphone
Capture the breathtaking views and cultural landmarks along the route.
Arrive early for the tour
Arriving a bit before the scheduled start ensures you don’t miss any part of this immersive experience.
Respect local customs and heritage sites
Help preserve the cultural significance of the stops like Jerusalem Convent by following guidelines and being mindful.
Comfortable walking shoes
Necessary for walking along the scenic routes and uneven terrain.
Waterproof jacket
Protection against unexpected rain during outdoor activities.
winter
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
Shield yourself from the sun during daytime.
summer
Camera or smartphone
Useful for capturing scenic and cultural highlights.