A Whanganui River trip is an experience like no other, filled with breathtaking views and adrenaline-pumping action. But you’ll feel more secure in this magical experience if you respect the necessary safety precautions.
Paddling off without understanding basic canoe safety tips is like hiking in jandals and jeans. Sure, you might be fine, but why tempt fate?
A Whanganui River trip is an experience like no other, filled with breathtaking views and adrenaline-pumping action. But you’ll feel more secure in this magical experience if you respect the necessary safety precautions. To ensure you get the most out of your time on the river, follow these safety tips, and you’ll be shipshape.
While the call to adventure can be deafening, take a realistic look at your skill level and plan your NZ canoeing trip accordingly before you get too far ahead of yourself. It doesn’t matter if you’re an expert with the paddle in hand or wouldn’t know which way to hold it; you should always plan a trip within your skill level. Take a look at the difference between the three day guided journey, the four day guided tour and the Five Day Guided River trip options to see the difference and what will suit your skill, comfort and enjoyment levels more.
Are you looking for a challenge? It’s always safer to put your skills to the test on a guided trip rather than a solo adventure. Having the safety of experienced guides paddling alongside you will ensure your canoeing trip is nothing but smooth sailing. Click here to meet our guides this season!
Coming prepared is the most basic canoe safety tip there is, When you book a Whanganui or Rangitikei River Tour with Canoe Safaris you will receive a multi page pre trip information leaflet/PDF with detailed packing lists and extra information to help you plan. Here is a basic look what items to bring on your Whanganui River Adventure, and here is an example of some vital safety equipment you’ll also need on the water:
· Life Jacket: A life jacket is an absolute must for anyone hopping into a canoe. Your jacket should be a snug fit and never leave your body once you’re on the water.
· Whistle: Carrying a whistle with you is a great way to stay safe on the water by letting people know when you need help.
· Communication Device: For longer multi-day trips where you may find yourself out of your group's whistle range, a waterproof communication device may be the lifeline you rely on to avoid potential danger.
· Headlamp: If you’re expecting to be on the water for long periods, a headlamp may be necessary to see where you’re going when visibility drops.
Don’t worry if you’re new to canoeing and don’t have the gear handy. Canoe Safaris provides all the safety gear you require.
Depending on the time of the year, an important canoe safety tip is to always keep an eye on the weather conditions, river levels and water temperature. Sudden weather changes can turn a peaceful paddle into a flurry of rapids and fast-moving currents. Planning and looking at the forecast can help protect you from unexpected river conditions. Ask the Canoe Safaris Team about the best time of year to come along on a Whanganui Journey.
With these canoe safety tips firmly planted in the back of your mind, you’ll be able to get out and experience nature like never before while remaining safe and sound.
See New Zealand like never before with a guided tour of the Whanganui River with Canoe Safaris. No experience or equipment is needed; you must bring yourself and an adventurous attitude. Give us a ring and book your next adventure today!
I would like to thank Mike, Stefan and Sophie for a great rafting experience on the Mohaka River. They were all such fun, very experienced and wonderful chefs too. Certainly a fantastic holiday and one to be recommended. So a big thank you for making it happen.
Sinda Hall
We went on the four day canoe safari and absolutely loved it! Amazing scenery, and great service. Aidan and Morgan really went the extra mile to make sure everyone was happy and comfortable. Food was just like the comforts of home! We were very well looked after, and felt safe on the...
Nicola Johansen
SIMPLY SENSATIONAL. Just completed the 3 day trip. Our guides Wilson and Gregor were fantastic. Cool, clear, calm (even when I tipped the wife out of our canoe). Always felt safe, always felt informed. The food was sensational. From the time we were greeted to the time we departed, I was very...
Warren J, Christchurch, NZ
A couple of good mates decided we'd do this trip some time ago and Canoe Safari's helped make it happen. Alex, Bailey, Lesley and Canon our guides / hosts were absolutely amazing. Scenery was stunning - seems like little has changed on the landscape in hundreds of years... still...
Hawkdwn
We did the 5 day, fully guided and catered river journey, with our four children and three other families. This was truly one of the best holidays we have ever had. Phil and Ian, our guides, organised every detail. It was enormous fun canoeing down the river, jumping off rocks and canyoning. We...
Sarah Scott-Brown
This was out and out one of the best experiences I've ever had. The trip exceeded my expectations in every department. The hospitality was second to none and the care taken for all of us was outstanding. Safety was never forgotten and was balanced with a load of fun and great humour...
Simon Christie
We did a family 4 day guided canoe trip, it was absolutely amazing. Very professional, our guides Morgan and Aiden were very knowledgeable and friendly. The food was way above expectation and the memories we have made will be with us forever. Highly recommend.
Leeann Morgan
Did the 3-day guided canoe trip down the Whanganui river with Phil and Simon as our guides. Even though all of us were first-time canoeists and a few of us were non-swimmers, they looked after us very well and were amazing at teaching us the skills we needed to keep ourselves safe. The...
Mark Loh
This was the best family trip ever! Three course meals, a wealth of knowledge from our awesome guides, and no devices, were just three reasons we would highly recommend this adventure. Phil and Simon were amazing guides and worked from the moment we were collected for our trip to the moment we...
Richard Beechey
Absolutely amazing experience with Canoe safaris! We did a 4-day canoe trip in the Whanganui river with Canoe safaris. Our guides, Phil and Ian are highly experienced, professional and helpful. Almost everything we need were provided, including tent, 3-meals everyday plus snacks, life jacket,...
Mandy Qiu
