The Wye River is located within the Leatham Conservation Area in Marlborough, New Zealand. Access to the river, including for paddling, is a critical consideration. The primary access points, specifically at Wye River and Waihōpai/Gosling, are through private land. Paddlers must obtain permission from the landowners before attempting to use these routes, as the Department of Conservation does not maintain a list of contacts for this area. This requirement for landowner permission is a significant restriction for paddlers planning a trip. The river is part of a route that leads to the Hidden Hut, indicating it is used for overnight tramping and suggesting a backcountry, remote character for the surrounding landscape. The river's setting within a conservation area implies a natural environment.