Join a guided canoe trip on the stunning Whanganui River that offers thrilling rapids, scenic stops, and a visit to a fragrant lavender farm—all perfect for family fun and adventure lovers alike.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
8-10 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be in average physical condition, capable of paddling and sitting for extended periods.
Wildlife
History
The Whanganui River is culturally significant to the Maori, who consider it a living ancestor and have worked to preserve its natural state since it was declared a national park in 1981.
Conservation
The trip supports local conservation efforts that protect native species and promote sustainable tourism in the river region.
Canoe Safaris
Join a guided canoe trip on the stunning Whanganui River that offers thrilling rapids, scenic stops, and a visit to a fragrant lavender farm—all perfect for family fun and adventure lovers alike.
Canoe Safaris operates from Ohakune in the Manawatū-Whanganui region and offers a range of guided canoe trips, self-hire options, and lodge accommodation. The company runs guided adventures on the Rangitikei River and the Whanganui River, including one-day, two-day, three-day, four-day and five-day itineraries. Popular guided routes listed include the Three-Day Guided Rangitikei River Canoe, Two-Day Guided Rangitikei River Canoe, Four-Day Guided Rangitikei River Canoe, Three-Day Guided Whanganui National Park Canoe, Four-Day Guided Whanganui National Park Canoe, and Five-Day Guided Whanganui National Park Canoe. Self-guided hire options include the Three-Day Whanganui National Park Canoe Hire and Four-Day Whanganui National Park Canoe Hire. Shorter experiences include the One Day Guided Lavender Farm Canoe on the Whanganui River. Accommodation is provided at Ohakune Lodge Accommodation, a studio-style lodge at the base of Turoa ski resort with kitchen facilities and a Hot Spring Spa Pool. Trips feature grade one and two rapids on the Rangitikei River, river camping, fishing and walks to waterfalls and historic sites where described. The Whanganui National Park itineraries travel along the Whanganui River and present scenic paddling opportunities and cultural history in locations where noted. Canoe Safaris lists guided trips and hire options across multiple durations to suit families, groups, and paddlers with varying experience. Information on specific routes, durations, and amenities is available in each trip listing.
Some trips include riverside lunches, visits to the Lavender Farm Cafe, and highlights such as Gravity Canyon bungy; self-hire Whanganui itineraries can navigate nearly 90 km of river in National Park.
Base Location
Ohakune, Manawatū-Whanganui
Launch point for river and lodge trips
Tours Offered
11 trips
Range from 1 to 5 days
Family Friendly
Most trips
Suitable for families and groups
Trip Durations
1–5 days
Short and multi-day options available
Secure guided trips, self-hire packages, or Ohakune Lodge accommodation — plan multi-day adventures on the Rangitikei and Whanganui rivers.
Wear quick-drying clothing
Bring moisture-wicking clothes suitable for water-based activities to stay comfortable throughout the trip.
Bring sun protection
Use sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to shield against Wellington's strong UV rays during midday paddling.
Pack waterproof gear
Ensure your camera and personal items are in waterproofContainers to keep them dry during river crossings.
Arrive early
Get to the launch point 30 minutes beforehand to gear up and receive safety instructions.
Water-resistant hat
Helps protect your face from direct sunlight during long hours on the water.
spring
Waterproof sunscreen
Protects skin from UV rays during extended exposure on the river.
summer
Quick-dry towel
Useful for drying off after water crossings or if you get splashed.
spring; summer
Light rain jacket
Provides extra protection if weather turns overcast or rainy.
fall; spring; winter