Whanganui National Park: The Hidden Gem in New Zealand’s Wilderness

With the majestic 290km-long Whanganui River flowing through its heart, this national park is home to one of New Zealand’s most unique Great Walks — and the only one you can experience by canoe. 

It is a land steeped in Māori history, rare wildlife, lush native forest - In this guide, we’ll uncover it's hidden highlights and show you how to explore it best with Canoe Safaris.

Where Is Whanganui National Park?

Covering 742 km² of rugged terrain, Whanganui National Park is located in the central North Island of New Zealand. It sits between Tongariro National Park and Egmont National Park and is part of the Manawatū-Whanganui region.

Nearby towns like Ohakune, Whanganui, and Taumarunui offer excellent launch points to explore this vast and remote wilderness.

A Brief History of New Zealand’s National Parks

Whanganui became New Zealand’s 11th national park in 1986. It was established to protect the largest remaining area of lowland forest in the North Island, along with the upper Whanganui River and its surrounding terrain.

(Fun fact: The river itself is not technically part of the national park! But its cultural, ecological, and recreational significance makes it the park’s defining feature)

New Zealand’s 13 national parks (three in the North Island and ten in the South) cover more than 30,000 km². They offer a wide range of landscapes and experiences — from canoe journeys and tramping to volcanoes, coastlines, and wildlife encounters.

Key Features of Whanganui National Park

Whanganui National Park is a truly unique destination, offering a rich blend of natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural history. Some of its standout features include:

• The Whanganui River – A 290km waterway central to Māori culture and the only river journey in New Zealand’s Great Walks system.
• Lush native forest – Home to some of the last remaining lowland forest in the North Island.
• Historical Māori sites – Including Tieke Kāinga, a living marae and an important cultural stop along the river. The park is a part of the sacred landscape of local iwi, with stories and traditions connected to many landmarks along the river. Visitors are encouraged to travel with respect, and our guides share these cultural insights as part of the journey.
• Rare wildlife – Including the endangered Whio (blue duck), North Island brown kiwi, and long-tailed bats.

Want to experience these features up close? A Canoe Safaris journey down the Whanganui River is the best way to do it. 

Things to Do in Whanganui National Park

Whanganui National Park offers something for everyone — from families to serious adventurers.

• Canoeing & Kayaking

Explore the national park from its most iconic feature: the Whanganui River. A canoe trip with Canoe Safaris is the best way to fully immerse yourself in this landscape
Our guided 5-day Whanganui River trip offers the full journey from Taumarunui or Whakahoro to Pipiriki.

• Tramping & Hiking
  -Matemateāonga Track (42 km, 3–5 days): A remote tramp linking Taranaki and Whanganui’s National Parks
  -Bridge to Nowhere: Visit this historic, iconic, abandoned concrete bridge deep in the forest. Canoe Safaris offers a popular 2-day Bridge to Nowhere Tour, ideal for those short on time.

• Jet Boating & Cycling

Jet boat tours and the Mountains to Sea Cycle Trail offer different ways to access remote parts of the park.

• Camping

There are several DOC-managed campsites and huts along the Whanganui River, as well as limited private options. Wild camping is not permitted — book early in peak season!

• Cultural & Historical Sites

From ancient pā sites to Tieke Kāinga, the park is full of important locations tied to Māori heritage and early settler history.

The Whanganui River Journey (A Great Walk by Canoe)

The Whanganui River Journey was officially added to New Zealand’s Great Walks network in 1992 — although ironically, it’s the only Great Walk that’s done by canoe!

Visitors can paddle 90–145 km over 3 to 5 days, starting from Taumarunui or Whakahoro, and finishing in Pipiriki.

Whether you want to explore for a day or tick off the full Whanganui River Journey, Canoe Safaris offers:

• Guided trips with cultural & historical storytelling, safe, professional & fun guides, hidden stops to explore, and freshly cooked meals.
• Self-guided options with all transport and logistics handled

Q: When is the best time to visit Whanganui National Park?

A: The best months to complete your Whanganui River Journey are October–April for warmer weather and ideal river conditions. Summer is busiest, so book your Canoe Safaris trip early!

Getting There: Access Points and Transport

Main entry points to the park and river include:

• Taumarunui
• Whakahoro
• Pipiriki
• The town of Whanganui

Nearby base towns like Ohakune, Raetihi, Owhango, and Waimarino offer accommodation, gear, and visitor info.

Local’s Tip: Skip the highway and drive the scenic Whanganui River Road for an unforgettable start/end to your trip.

At Canoe Safaris, we include:

• Shuttle transport to and from the river
• Safe off-street car parking at our Ohakune base
• Gear drop-offs and pickup logistics

Why Visit with Canoe Safaris?

With over 40 years’ experience, Canoe Safaris is the leading operator on the Whanganui River. Here’s why:

• Local expertise and knowledge
• Family-friendly and flexible options for all ages
• High-quality equipment included
• All meals cooked for you on guided tours
• DOC campsite bookings included
• Friendly, professional guides that make the experience unforgettable

Whether you’re a solo traveller, couple, family, or school group — we have a trip for you

Ready to Explore Whanganui National Park?

Experience the Whanganui River Journey with Canoe Safaris — the best way to discover Whanganui National Park.
Book your trip today and start planning your wilderness adventure!

Posted by Canoe Safaris on July 31, 2025