Cultural River Journey

The Whanganui River Journey allows you to relax your senses, unwind and fully immerse yourself in the natural beauties of our river, our land and our people. Experience the customary practices of our ancestors, as we give you the most peaceful experience in this tranquil environment we call home.

Immersed in the essence of the great Whanganui river, the journey is a wilderness adventure through the most amazing stretches of the Whanganui National Park. An 87km voyage in our traditional 6 man waka that carves its way through the heart of our region.

It is the sweet sound of the river birds that will seduce your senses, as you appreciate the overwhelming flora and fauna that cloaks the riverbanks.

The river reveals to us its diversity with some more placid sections through deep gorges and other more challenging rapids that test the skill of your cultural river guide.

Scheduled breaks allow you to discover and explore the wonders of the land as you enjoy scenic bush walks and historic sites that help paint a picture of the traditional lives’ of our ancestors.

Away from the necessities of home each night is hosted at traditional pa sites where we welcome you in the customs of our ancestors with pōwhiri (traditional Māori welcome) and kai (food).

Each evening is a time of sharing and caring as we join together in what we call ‘whakamoemiti.’ (A time to acknowledge the blessings each day has revealed to us). Blessed with stories and waiata(songs) that have been passed down through generations and generations.

We endeavor to provide the highest quality experience second to none, mesmerized in a depth of culture that can be experienced nowhere else but in this magnificent place we call home.

What we provide

• Trained Riverguide
• Waka(Canoe) hire
• Safety equipment
• Life jackets and paddles
• River support crew (dependent on group size)
• Fully catered with all meals (option for self-catering just inquire)
• Cultural Entertainment
• Vehicle Drivers

Transport comes at an extra cost dependent on group size.