Whanganui’s Winding Water

Whanganui River Journey

This five-day journey by canoe or kayak follows the Whanganui River through the pristine native forests of Whanganui National Park. With a  length of 290 kilometres, the Whanganui River is one of the longest rivers in the country. It is also the only river in New Zealand to be  protected by an innovative bill that grants the river the same legal rights as a person.

The journey has been named one of New Zealand’s ten Great Walks. But what makes it different from the other nine walks is that this five- day journey involves paddling down the river instead of hiking on land. Embark on a tranquil journey drifting along a river surrounded by  steep canyons, far from the bustling modern world. Here, you’ll find serenity, the joyful chirping of birds, and lush native forests clinging to  the cliffs. At one point, take a break from your canoe and follow a simple hiking trail to uncover the Bridge to Nowhere, which offers  breathtaking views.

The Legend of the Whanganui River

When the great mountains Tongariro and Taranaki came into conflict over the love of the beautiful Mt Pihanga, a mighty battle ensued.  Tongiriro eventually won this fierce battle and Taranaki, wild with grief and anger at the loss of his love, ripped himself from the ground and  tore a path through the country to the setting sun. Soon after the mighty battle, a stream of clear water sprang from Tongariro, which filled  and healed the wound Taranaki had made in his flight towards the ocean. Green forests, filled with the songs of birds, grew throughout the  valley of this new river, known as the Whanganui River.