4-Day Guided Whanganui River Tour
Embark on a Guided Whanganui River Canoe Tour from Whakahoro to Pipiriki. Cover 90km at a more relaxed pace than the 3 day Journey. Explore canyons, waterfalls and enjoy early camp arrivals. Perfect for soaking up the scenery at your own pace.
Highlights of the 4 Day Guided Whanganui River Tour | |
| ⭐Relaxed River Days Paddle shorter hours, explore more and unwind at camp earlier, Soak up the Whanganui River’s beauty at your own pace. | ⭐All Inclusive From meals and camping gear to transport, guides, and logistics - every detail is covered so you can focus on the adventure. |
| ⭐Secret Canyons & waterfalls Explore side streams, hidden canyons, and waterfalls that most 3-day travellers don’t have time to visit. | ⭐Comfort Under the Stars Settle into riverside camps with roomy tents, thick mattresses & the sounds of nature all around you. |
| ⭐Transport & Pre-Trip Stay Stay at Canoe Safaris Lodge in Ohakune for a stress-free start & finish as we shuttle you to and from the river. | ⭐Gourmet Camp Meals Hot cooked breakfasts with fresh coffee, healthy lunches, and 3-course dinners with NZ wine. |
| ⭐Expert Guides Safety-focused professionals who have extra time to personalise your once-in-a-lifetime river experience. | ⭐Time to Truly Explore Pause for wildlife, history, and scenery that most rush past - making your 4-day Whanganui River tour truly special. |
Everything you need to know
This 4 Day Whanganui River Guided Canoe Tour is designed for families, groups, and travellers who simply want to take their time and truly enjoy the journey. With the same 90km distance as the 3-Day Whanganui River Canoe Tour but spread over four days, you'll paddle at a pace that gives more opportunities for side trips into canyons, relaxed swim breaks, and early camp arrivals for unwinding under the stars.
With this slower pace, our expert guides can personalise the experience, ensuring everyone gets the most out of their adventure. Whether you're refining your paddling technique, appreciating the unique wildlife, immersing yourself in the rich history, wanting to explore extra canyons & tributaries - or simply taking in the magnificent scenery, this extended Whanganui River Journey offers flexibility and fun in equal measure.
We take care of everything - from booking national park and campsite fees to providing spacious tents, comfortable 3 Inch thick mattresses and top-quality safety gear. Enjoy freshly prepared riverside meals - from cooked breakfasts and healthy lunches, to gourmet three-course dinners with a splash of New Zealand wine - You just bring a sleeping bag and we do the rest.
Canoe Safaris Lodge - A Seamless start and finish
If you'd like to keep things simple, consider staying at our on-site accommodation in Ohakune. Arriving the day before means you'll have plenty of time to organise your gear, pack your barrels & drybags and ask any last minute questions before and early start the next day. Because we shuttle you to and from the river, you can also book a night after your tour to fully unwind in comfort and enjoy one of Ohakune's excellent restaurants.
Families, Groups & Solo Travellers
- Families of two adults and three children (14 and under) receive a 50% discount on the third child’s rate.
- Group discounts are available, and custom departure dates can be arranged for Private groups.
- Solo travellers and smaller groups are always welcome and encouraged—you’ll be in great company with like-minded adventurers.
If you don't see a date that works, simply contact us - We often run extra trips during the season to ensure no one misses out!
➜DEPARTURE: Whakahoro
➜DIFFICULTY LEVEL: Bumpy and Fun
➜DATES: Depart Tuesdays & Fridays (October to May)
Additional trips available during peak season
Day 1:Whakahoro to Ohauora
Paddle distance: 27km/ 5-7 hours from launch to camp
We depart Ohakune between 6:45am and 7:00am and head to Whakahoro, where you’ll learn how to pack your canoe. The journey begins as the river narrows, passing historic sites like colonial houseboat moorings and old Māori settlements (Kāinga). Enjoy a possible lunch stop at Mangapapa, then paddle past dramatic river bends, waterfalls, and hidden caves before setting up camp at Ohauora. If time allows, we’ll take a short side trip to explore canyons or enjoy a swim.
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Day 2: Ohauora to Mangapurua
Paddle distance: 31km/ 5-7 hours from camp to camp
After breakfast, we’re back on the river at 9am and paddle through a deep gorge before stopping at John Coull Campsite for a break. As we continue, we’ll pass the confluence of the Tangarakau and Whangamomona Rivers before reaching Mangawaiiti, an ideal lunch and swim spot. The journey then takes us past Otumangu landing, a post-WWI farming settlement, before arriving at Mangapurua for the night. From here, we can take an optional 45-minute walk to the famous Bridge to Nowhere.
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Day 3: Mangapurua to Ramanui
Paddle distance: 11km paddle & 5km walk/4-6 hours camp to camp
In the morning, you’ll have the chance to explore the Bridge to Nowhere before paddling downstream through striking geological formations. Along the way, we stop at an abandoned colonial farm before arriving at Ramanui Campsite. Here, you can unwind with a hot shower and a hearty dinner. If you’d like, you can upgrade to a shared cabin for added comfort—be sure to book early!
Day 4: Ramanui to Pipiriki
Paddle distance: 22km/4-6 hours from camp to finish
The final stretch begins with a paddle past Kahura landing, a key filming location for ‘River Queen’. The river winds through stunning gorges, leading to the thrilling Ngaporo Rapid. After a lunch break, we pass historic winching points and eel traps before tackling the Paparoa Rapids, bringing us to our journey’s end at Pipiriki.
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