Paddling near Whanganui, Manawatū-Whanganui

Whanganui sits at the mouth of the Whanganui River in Manawatū-Whanganui, and that river defines the paddling scene here. New Zealand's longest navigable waterway, the Whanganui is the only water-based Great Walk in the country — a multi-day canoe or kayak journey through deep gorges, dense bush and Whanganui National Park. The full 145 km route from Taumarunui to Pipiriki takes five days; a popular three-day version starts at Whakahoro. The Rangitīkei River also draws experienced paddlers to the region.