Whanganui River Canoes: 4-Day Paddle Whakahoro to Pipiriki
Difficulty
easy
Duration
4 days
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness recommended; suitable for beginners and families with children aged 7+
Overview
Paddle four days along New Zealand’s iconic Whanganui River, drifting beneath sandstone cliffs and native forests with Whanganui River Canoes. Perfect for families and beginners, this trip blends natural beauty with cultural heritage.
Whakahoro to Pipiriki - 4 Days
$220-$230 p/p + booking fee • EASY • Freedom Hire Trips • Suitable for Groups with Children aged 7+
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About This Adventure
Embark on a memorable 4-day paddle through the stunning Whanganui National Park, perfect for families, friends, and couples. Enjoy a leisurely pace, allowing you to soak in the breathtaking scenery without the rush. Experience the great outdoors with essential camping gear and create lasting memories along the river.
Begin your paddle in the heart of the Whanganui National Park
Duration
4 Days
About
For our 4 day trip we recommend you book Ohauora, Mangawaiiti and then Tieke or the Bridge to Nowhere Lodge/Campsite. If they are unavailable; give us a call or email before booking other options.
This trip is a fantastic way to see the Whanganui National Park and spend time with friends and family. If you don't want to rush the trip, and want to enjoy each day, without rushing to set up tents and get dinner on before it gets dark this is probably our favourite option.
Prices:
- $230 per person for a group of 5 or less people
- $220 per person for a group of 6+ people
Minimum booking is for 2 people. If you are paddling alone, please contact us before continuing with the booking.
More info
Suitable for:
- Families with Children aged 7+
- Groups of friends
- Couples looking for a getaway
- Beginner Paddlers
Level: Easy
What to bring
Unguided Tour:
- TENT– even if you have booked Huts/Lodges a tent is a basic requirement for the outdoors.
- Pots, pans, and eating utensils, can opener as well as dish washing material and tea towels
- Matches or lighter and a gas cooker
- Enough food for the whole trip and for an extra day
- Snacks and nibbles for in between meals
- Toilet paper
- Torch / batteries/headlamp
- Canoeing clothing – layers of clothing that you can easily add and remove. No jeans
- Camping clothing and equipment
- Swim wear
- Complete change of warm clothes
- Shorts
- Towel
- 2-3 x Polypropylene or woollen tops
- Spare light weight top (fleece and wool preferably)
- Sun hat / warm hat
- Warm socks
- Waterproof light weight jacket or Parker
- Beanie (depending on season)
- Wind-proof leggings (optional)
- Shoes suitable for canoeing in, and a separate pair for at the campsites. Please note, jandals, thongs, and flip flops are not suitable for this trip.
- Track suit or poly-pro pants (not jeans or cotton)
- Sleeping bag / sleeping mat
- Wetsuit (optional for colder months)
- Lightweight gloves for warmth or blisters
- Water bottle (and thermos to keep hot drinks handy)
- Basic toiletries (no soap in river)
- Spare plastic bags – for clothing and rubbish
- Sun glasses with strap
- Insect repellent/ Sunscreen
- Small camera – carried in waterproof box (we don’t recommend paddling with any expensive electronics)
- Small pillow (optional)
- Please note, there are rain water tanks at every DOC camp-site approximately every two hours along the river. DOC do advise that you boil or filter the water. It is good outdoor practise to bring plenty of water with you.
Adventure Tips
Book Campsites Early
Reserve Ohauora, Mangawaiiti, and Tieke campsites in advance to secure your spot on this popular route.
Pack Layered Clothing
Prepare for rapidly changing weather by bringing multiple layers suitable for paddling and camping outdoors.
Use Bio-Friendly Toiletries
Keep the river pristine by avoiding soaps or detergents directly in the water during your trip.
Bring a Waterproof Container
Protect electronics and valuables from water damage by storing them in sealed waterproof bags or boxes.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Kererū (New Zealand wood pigeon)
- Blue duck (whio)
History
The Whanganui River is the only river granted legal personhood, honoring Māori values and deep historical connection.
Conservation
The Whanganui National Park emphasizes Leave No Trace principles, encouraging paddlers to minimize their environmental footprint.
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Adventure Hotspots in Whanganui
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Layered Clothing
Adapt to variable weather by layering quick-dry, breathable paddling clothes topped with waterproofs.
Camping Tent
Necessary for overnight campsites unless booked in huts; choose a lightweight, waterproof model.
Waterproof Dry Bags
Keep clothing and electronics dry while on the river.
Insect Repellent
Protect yourself from sandflies and mosquitoes common along the river in warmer months.
summer specific