The Whanganui River - Canoeing
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The Whanganui National Park has rugged terrain covered in lush native forest with the Whanganui River flowing through it. The river from Taumarunui to Pipiriki is part of the Department of Conservation ‘Great Walk’ network. The 3 or 4 day Whakahoro to Pipiriki section is the most popular canoeing section. From Whakahoro, the only access out is by canoe and this remoteness with forest filtered fresh air makes for a rejuvenating holiday. The Canadian Canoes used, are well suited for the rapids and the long still water of the gorges and they hold plenty of gear. Luxuries are a must!

The Whanganui River is rich with Maori and European history, the largest reminder of which, is the famous ‘Bridge to Nowhere’. Just like the early explorers, you will see the spectacular sheer gorges rising hundreds of metres to distant ridges and hopefully hear a Kiwi calling, while eating dinner under the stars.

Adrift provides qualified, experienced and personable guides whose sole purpose is to ensure you have a safe, enjoyably and memorable adventure. There are many marvels and obstacles on the journey where our guides willingly offer their experience and anecdotes. Equally there are times where you are left to absorb the tranquillity and solitude.
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Canoeing, Whanganui River Prices 2009/2010
 
Freedom Hire* Adult pp Child pp
3 Day Adventure NZ $190 NZ $190
4 Day Adventure NZ $190 NZ $190
5 Day Adventure NZ $190 NZ $190

All unguided trips commencing from Taumarunui must have a river guide for the first day (NZ$80 per person, per day. Minimum group size is 4 persons). This section of River has a larger frequency of rapids some of which are technical, requiring a guide.

*Freedom Hire Charge is for canoe and paddling equipment hire (dry barrels, paddles, and buoyancy vests), and transport from National Park Village to and from the river. The charge does not include Department of Conservation Hut Passes, nor any clothing or camping equipment. Clothing and camping equipment is available for hire and Hut passes can be purchased through Adrift.

River Guide Only NZ$80 per person, per day

Minimum group size of 4 persons is required for this rate
Full Package (River Guide, Canoe Hire and Fully Catered)
 
  Adult pp Child pp
6 Day Adventure NZ $950 NZ $690
5 Day Adventure NZ $890 NZ $650
4 Day Adventure NZ $750 NZ $590
3 Day Adventure NZ $675 NZ $490
2 Day Adventure NZ $490 NZ $300
1 Day Adventure NZ $230 NZ $200
1/2 Day Adventure NZ $130 NZ $115
2 Day Luxury Jetboat/Canoe NZ $690 NZ $625

Groups with over 5 in numbers 5% discount
Groups with over 10 in numbers 10% discount


Child rate applies to all children under the age of 13 at the time of completing the adventure.
Children under 6yrs and & paddling, i.e. not taking a passenger seat, $100

Includes; guide/s, full catering, canoe & paddling equipment, return transport for National Park Village & Whakapapa Village, cooking & camping equipment (excludes sleeping bags), and Department of Conservation Hut passes. All you need is your clothing and enthusiasm.

Rates are valid till 31st March 2010 and include GST

For more details, suggested itineraries, booking form and gear list, Contact us

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Recommend River Routes

All itineraries are a suggestion only, and will be altered to meet with your needs and wishes. We have itineraries for 6-1 day trips. However, 4 day and 3 day trips are the most popular for guided and freedom hire adventures.

3-day Whakahoro to Pipiriki

Day 0
Arrive at National Park Village. Make contact with Adrift and pick-up your dry barrels.

Day 1
Whakahoro to John Coull Hut (Accommodation pick-up 8.00am)
This day involves a 6-hour paddle to John Coull Hut. We will be passing the Mangapapa and Ohauora campsites at 2 hrs and 4-hrs paddling, respectively. Just before the Ohauora Campsite is Tamatea’s Cave.

Day 2
John Coull Hut to Tieke Marae
Today we have a 5-hour paddle from John Coull Hut to Tieke Marae. Passing Mangawaiti and the Upper Mangapurua campsites at one and a half hour intervals. Just before the Mangapurua Campsite is the track up to the Bridge to Nowhere (1.5 hour return walk).

Day 3
Tieke Marae to Pipiriki
From Tieke, it is a four hour paddle to Pipiriki and at 2 pm we will be met by our transport which will take us back to National Park Village by 4.30 pm. But before that, where we will pass the Ngaporo Campsite, successfully negotiate the 3 largest rapids of the journey including the Ngaporo Rapid and the infamous Autapu Rapid. WhoHa!

1-Day Paddle
Taumarunui to Erceg’s Farm

Depart National Park Village by 9am and drive 45 minutes to the start of our adventure on the Whanganui River at Cherry Grove in Taumarunui. We start Paddling by 10.30 am.

The total time we spend on the River is 4- 5 hours finishing at either John Ercegs Farm or 45 minutes earlier at Ohinepane if we are getting tired. A Good Kiwi B-B-Q overlooking the river from John's Farm awaits us. (Dock a few sheep too if you want to lend a hand) Then an amazing wander though John’s museum packed with artefacts collected from around the region dating back to the colonisation of the River by both Maori and European inhabitants.

Back to National Park by 5.30pm
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General Terms and Conditions

Prices are based on a minimum of 2 people. Single customers will be accepted upon availability with a surcharge .If possible and agreeable, single customers will be placed into a group, with no surcharge.

Pick up from Taupo, Turangi or Ohakune has a surcharge. Minimum numbers apply.

Depending on the group and activity, restrictions will apply in regard to age, level of fitness, and standard of health that is required. These restrictions will apply in the instance of safety and general enjoyment of the whole group. Where possible, Adrift will offer an alternative option to accommodate clients. All trips have a minimum of clothing and equipment requirements that clients must adhere to. In the instance of clients being under the influence of drugs or alcohol, refusal will be automatic and no refund will be issued.
Bookings

$100 pp non refundable deposit is required to confirm any booking.

Payment in full is required prior to commencement of the adventure.

Cancellation

In the event of bad weather an alternative adventure will be offered that is safe.

Adrift have the right to cancel an adventure should Adrift consider the weather to cause too high a risk.

Cancellation of an adventure by the customer – If possible, Adrift will organise for the customer to join another party on a similar trip. If this is undesirable, the confirmation fee is forfeited. If the customer cancels with 30 days notice then a full refund will be made. No refund will be made on cancellations within 30 days of the start of the adventure.
Home Tongariro National Park – Walks Whanganui National Park – Canoeing Coromandel – Sea Kayaking
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