Paddling near Pahiatua, Manawatū-Whanganui

Pahiatua sits in the Tararua district of Manawatū-Whanganui, surrounded by hill country drained by several significant rivers. The Manawatū River runs within a few kilometres, and the Mangahao River is even closer, giving local paddlers accessible flatwater and moving-water options without travelling far. Further afield, the Rangitīkei and Whanganui rivers are among the region's most celebrated canoe and kayak routes.