Experience the best Whanganui River guided tours and canoe trips with Canoe Safaris & Lodge in Ohakune. Whether you’re planning a multi-day river journey or looking for flexible canoe hire on the Whanganui River, we offer fully supported adventures for all experience levels.
From short scenic trips to multi-day Whanganui River Journeys, every experience is designed to help you disconnect from everyday life and reconnect with nature.
👉 Enquire now to plan your Whanganui River canoe adventure.
Planning to explore more of the region? Read our Manawatu Whanganui Travel Guide for top attractions, accommodation and local experiences.
Whanganui River Canoe Trips & Guided Tours
Discover the magic of the Whanganui River Journey with a range of guided canoe trips suitable for all experience levels. Travel through remote landscapes, native forest and historic river routes that are largely inaccessible by road.
This is one of New Zealand’s Great Walks — experienced by water.
Choose from fully guided tours with experienced professionals or enjoy the freedom of self-guided canoe hire with full support and safety briefings provided.
Multi-Day Whanganui River Journeys
Take the time to truly experience the river with multi-day canoe adventures:
5 Day Guided Safari
Our most popular trip covering 90km–125km. Perfect for those wanting a true escape into nature.
4 Day Guided Safari
A great option for those short on time but still wanting a full river experience.
3 Day Guided Tours
Ideal for travellers wanting a balance of relaxation and adventure.
2 Day Canoe Trips
Perfect for weekends or first-time paddlers wanting to experience the river.
Each journey offers a unique perspective of the Whanganui River with opportunities to relax, explore and reconnect.
Rangitikei River Canoe Trips
Explore a different side of the region with Rangitikei River canoe trips, featuring deep gorges, gentle rapids and stunning scenery.
Options include 1-day to 4-day trips, making it ideal for:
- Families
- First-time paddlers
- Those wanting a shorter adventure
Canoe Hire Whanganui River
Prefer to explore independently? Our Whanganui River canoe hire offers everything you need for a safe and memorable journey.
All hire packages include canoes or kayaks, paddles, safety equipment, waterproof storage, detailed maps, and transport to and from the river. A full safety briefing is provided so you can travel with confidence.
All you need to bring is your food, camping gear and a sense of adventure.
Accommodation at Canoe Safaris Lodge, Ohakune
Stay at Canoe Safaris Lodge in Ohakune, a comfortable base for your Whanganui River adventure.
Located near Turoa Ski Field on Mt Ruapehu, the lodge offers:
- Self-contained studio units
- Kitchen facilities
- Ensuite bathrooms
- Sky TV and heating
- Hot spa pool for relaxing after your trip
Perfect for couples, families and groups exploring the Ruapehu region.
Why Choose Canoe Safaris
- Experienced and professional guides
- Quality equipment and safety-first approach
- Flexible trip options from 1 to 5 days
- Lodge accommodation available onsite
- Ideal for families, groups and solo travellers
This is a truly unique way to experience one of New Zealand’s most special landscapes.
👉 Ready to experience the Whanganui River Journey?
Contact Canoe Safaris today to plan your guided tour, canoe trip or accommodation stay.
Group Canoe Trips & Large Group Tours
Planning a group adventure on the Whanganui River? Our group canoe trips and large group tours are ideal for families, school groups, corporate teams and friends travelling together.
Canoe Safaris hosts many group experiences each year and offers flexible pricing based on group size. Every trip can be tailored to suit your needs, including guided tours, catering options, and unique cultural experiences such as marae visits and traditional hāngī at private campsites.
Whether you’re organising a short getaway or a multi-day Whanganui River Journey, we’ll help you create a seamless and memorable group experience.
👉 Contact us to organise your customised group canoe tour.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Whanganui River Journey?
The Whanganui River Journey is one of New Zealand’s Great Walks, completed by canoe or kayak through Whanganui National Park.
Do I need experience for a guided canoe trip?
No experience is required. Guided tours are suitable for beginners, with full instruction and support provided.
How long are Whanganui River canoe trips?
Trips range from 1-day experiences to 5-day guided journeys, depending on your time and fitness level.
Can I hire a canoe on the Whanganui River?
Yes, we offer Whanganui River canoe hire with all equipment, transport and safety briefings included, making it easy to plan a self-guided river journey.
Do you offer group canoe trips on the Whanganui River?
Yes, we specialise in group canoe tours for families, schools, corporate teams and large groups. Trips can be customised with guides, food, cultural experiences and tailored itineraries.
Where do trips depart from?
Most Whanganui River trips depart from Ohinepane or Whakahoro, with transport included.
Is accommodation available?
Yes, Canoe Safaris Lodge in Ohakune offers comfortable accommodation before or after your trip.
