Depart Ohakune between 7.30 and 8.00am for the Whanganui River. At the launch site, the canoes and barrels are unloaded and the guides will show you how to pack your canoe. After a lovely morning paddle, stop for a rock jump, followed by a picnic lunch. After lunch, we will traverse the huge horseshoe turn at Kirikiriroa, the Verandah, the Whirlpool and on down to Tamatea's Cave, and end the day at Ohauora campsite.
In this remote setting, you will be able to look and listen for kereru, tui and fantail, while brown kiwi can often be heard at night. The forest is a mix of rata, rewarewa, rimu, tawa and kowhai trees. Tonight we will be camping on the river front.
Awaken to the sound of native songbirds and the smell of a gourmet hot breakfast, then enjoy a peaceful morning on the straightest section of the river, visit the historic John Coull Hut, explore the Mangawaiiti Canyon and pass the Otumangu Landing, a post World War 1 farming settlement. Admire waterfalls and mirror reflections on the water as you make for Mangapurua, our camp for this evening.
Another night camping on the river front, listen for kereru, tui and fantail, while brown kiwi at night. The forest is a mix of rata, rewarewa, rimu, tawa and kowhai trees.
After breakfast, paddle to the Mangapurua Stream entrance and walk to the iconic Bridge to Nowhere, where we learn more about the former farming settlement in the area. Then we set off again for a short paddle, stopping for lunch along the way. Enjoy a hot shower at camp and take a short walk to the Bridge to Nowhere Lodge where you can enjoy a cold drink on the deck, or relax at camp.
Cabins available at this campsite. Note: book early to ensure a bed at the Lodge.
Enjoy your lodge accommodation high above the river and surrounded by native bush. Located deep in the Whanganui National Park, the Bridge to Nowhere Lodge is only accessible by foot, boat or helicopter which means often it is just you and your group here for the night. Check out the nearby glow worm cave and star-gaze under the clear night skies. Facilities include fully equipped kitchen, lounge and dining room, hot showers and comfortable beds.
Following breakfast, we paddle one of the most peaceful sections of the river. Admire the massive canyon walls with dripping moss and ferns before we navigate the exciting Ngaporo rapid, then stop for a break. Next, we paddle the Mangaio stream and explore the Puraroto cave, followed by fun rapids, including the legendary Autapu rapids after which we see the first signs of civilisation. After one last rapid, we land at Pipiriki and head back to Ohakune.
