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wanganui river
New Zealand is a land of rivers with around 70 river systems criss-crossing the two main islands.
The Whanganui wears the undisputed crown as the scenic and historic Queen of the Rivers. It is also the longest navigable river in the country.
No other river offers so much primeval beauty, solitude and adventurous fun as the Whanganui. No other river conveys such a deep feeling of mystery, discovery and grandeur. This ancient waterway has profound spiritual, cultural and historic significance for tangata whenua - the people of the land and the river. After 40 generations the Maori iwi and hapu can truly proclaim, ‘I am the river and the river is me.’
Europeans too, hold dear the memories and records of colonial settlement along its dark brooding waters. Today all Kiwis and overseas visitors can enjoy its dramatic landscape and tumbling rapids as a modern-day recreational challenge.
The Whanganui rises as a tiny spring on Mt Tongariro and plunges 329km through deeply incised gorges and open farmland to reach the sea. Canoe and kayak paddlers can launch their craft at Taumaranui, Ohinepane or Whakahoro and ride the rolling river down to Pipiriki over 3 to 6 days. Dept.of Conservation campsites, three huts and several private lodges provide a range of overnight stays.
Paddling the Whanganui is a quintessential experience for every Kiwi who loves the outdoors. For most it represents a physical and an emotional challenge, as the river’s mood is changeable, and the errant boulders, tree snags and strainers can easily trap the unwary. Heavy rain can raise the water level overnight by 10 metres, so the campsites are placed on high terraces.
Canoeing trips can be arranged in Taumaranui, National Park, Oakune and Raetihi. There is a choice of independent canoe hire or guided trips with meals provided. The popular season is September to April and around 6,000 people make the journey each year. Non-paddlers can enjoy sightseeing by jet-boat and trampers can reach the river on two major track systems - the Mangapurua and Matemateonga.
The Whanganui has been a source of food, pleasure and inspiration for centuries. Today it continues to provide adrenalin pumping adventure, recreation and restorative time out.
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