Price from:
722 USD
*3 Days guided exploring the Whanganui Journey by Canoe. This is one of our most common trips as you are covering the most beautiful section of the Whanganui National Park - In the Shortest amount of time. Just bring sleeping bags and personal gear and we do the rest.*
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Rates
- **Adults (Ages 15+)** - $1245
- **Children (Ages 6-14)** - $1045
- **Family (2 Adults, 3 Children)** - $5102.50
- **1 Night Accommodation in Canoe Safaris Lodge Pre Tour** - Starting at $140
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Schedule
This trip spans three days is suitable for backpackers, solo travellers and people who are short on time.
- Day 1: Check in at 6:45am
- Day 3: Return approx. 3:30pm
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Itinerary
Sample itinerary - can vary with river and campsite conditions
**Day One:**
We depart Ohakune between 6.30am and 7am for the river. At Whakahoro we unload canoes and barrels and show you how to pack your canoe. Guides then give a talk on river and campsite safety, and then instruction on how to paddle your canoe. On most trips we have 2 guides so if you are a little nervous you are welcome to paddle with a guide for at least the first day. Once the guides are satisfied that everyone can steer their canoe then the group sets off on the river. The gorge starts to narrow and we leave the last road access point behind at Whakahoro - the second and final mooring point for the Houseboat. We pass Laceys and Wades landings and several old maori Kaianga. Later in the morning we pass Mangapapa campsite, Man of War Bluff, Kirikiriroa where the river does a huge horseshoe turn, the Verandah, the Whirlpool and on down to Tamatea's Cave and a possible lunch stop at Ohauora campsite. There is plenty of time for stops along the way and there are many safe places to get out and swim. We camp at John Coull Hut and campsite.
**Day Two:**
Breakfast and on the river at 9am. A morning paddle past the Tangarakau and Whangamomona rivers, Mangawaiiti campsite, and Otumangu landing - one of the post WW1 faming settlements. Shortly afterwards we see the first pine trees since Whakahoro (planted by the early settlers), and we stop at the Mangapurua for lunch and a walk to the Bridge to Nowhere (45 min each way). After the walk there is time for a swim before we paddle the last 1.5hrs down to Bridge to Nowhere Cabins and campsite. If the weather and time allows we also take a short walk at Tangahoe landing to the Tangahoe waterfall. Dinner and hot showers at the cabins depending on availability. (Please note - book early to ensure a bed)
**Day Three:**
We pass Kahura landing and one of the locations for the filming of "River Queen". It is an hours paddle through the steep gorge until the river cascades through Ngaporo rapid and down to Ngaporo campsite for a break. We paddle past the Mangaio stream and Mangaio rock where several of the early eyebolts can still be seen that were winching points for the riverboats. Next it's the Pururoto caves and then Autapu rapid. If the river is low there is time to unload a couple of canoes and for the adventurous to take another run through the middle of the waves. A great spot for some action photos! It's also a great place for a swim with the guides through the rapid. From Autapu there are several small rapids before the Paparoa rapids swings the canoes past the old eel traps and down to the landing at Pipiriki. After unloading boats and loading the trailer we have a quick stop in Pipiriki and a short one hour drive back to Ohakune. (approx 4pm). Time for a cold drink with the guides, afternoon tea, and dinner with the guides if you decide to stay the last night at our lodge. It's a fantastic trip for all ages - perfect for families and the kids will always have something to do.
Booking Notes
#What Next
If you have booked directly via our website and are receiving this confirmation email for the first time, please await another follow up confirmation email from us with lots of extra information around arrival, final payment and packing information. We will be in touch as soon as possible and aim to acknowledge all new bookings within 24 hours.
#Check-In
Our tours depart at 6.45am sharp, with all customers packed and ready to go at this time. If you are arriving at our Lodge for pre trip accommodation with us, please give us an estimated time of arrival. Accommodation is limited, so this must be booked in advance and during peak times we also utilize our overflow motel which is a quick 10 second drive away.
If you are staying elsewhere please come round the day before your trip to check in for your tour or call us for alternative arrangements if this is not possible.
Please download this PDF for suggested packing lists and more information on your upcoming trip.
[View Guided Pre Trip info 2022.pdf](https://cdn.filestackcontent.com/GCPMSqVQ5eDJQjj3LQ3g)
Ensure you have a good look through this attachment and let us know if you have any questions.
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Thanks for booking with **Canoe Safaris**! We look forward to seeing you here for your Whanganui Adventure. Feel free to contact us with questions.
**Canoe Safaris**
64 6-385 9237
info@canoesafaris.co.nz
