The Waimatā River flows through the Gisborne region of New Zealand's North Island, running from steep pastoral and forested hill country down through the city of Gisborne, where it joins the Taraheru River to form the harbour on which the port, marina, and fishing club are situated. The river sees a range of paddle craft, including kayaks, waka ama, and informal rafts, alongside rowers and anglers.

Water quality is a significant concern for anyone paddling the Waimatā. Pastoral farming on steep, unstable terrain has caused severe erosion, and sediment loads are heavy — after rain, the river can turn to what observers describe as liquid mud. Forestry operations in the catchment have also contributed debris and logs to the river, which have been reported in the river itself, the sea, and nearby beaches. These conditions are ongoing rather than isolated events, and paddlers should factor in the likelihood of turbid water and floating debris, particularly following rainfall.

The river's winding valley provides road access through the hinterland, suggesting reasonable land-based access along much of its length, though specific put-in and take-out points are not well documented. The lower reaches near the city and harbour are the most actively used by the paddling community. Efforts are underway through various environmental initiatives to improve riparian vegetation and reduce sediment input, but the river's condition remains degraded relative to its potential.