The Ngunguru River is located in the Northland region of New Zealand's North Island, flowing through a landscape of forested hills and farmland before opening into a tidal harbour and estuary. The river extends at least 12.5 kilometres from the harbour channel entrance to the road bridge at Scow Landing, where the main road from Whangarei crosses the river.

A practical Scow Landing road bridge put-in point exists near the road bridge, with a picnic area located just off the main road up Waipoka Road. From here, paddlers can explore upstream, where the river bends northward into forested hills. This upper section is notable for kiwi habitat in the surrounding bush. The farmland flanking the lower river is historically significant, criss-crossed with approximately 1,500 kilometres of drystone walls, some constructed as early as the 1860s by Dalmatian gum diggers.

Downstream, the river opens into the Ngunguru Harbour, and paddlers can continue out into the estuary and harbour proper. This route — from the upper river through to the harbour — is offered as a guided kayak experience by at least one local operator, and is considered suitable for beginners and families. The area is noted for its wildlife and birdlife, which can be observed along the river corridor.

The historical Scow Landing, distinct from the modern council-named site at the bridge, lies approximately 1.6 kilometres downstream of the road bridge near what is now known as Captain Percy's Landing, adding cultural interest to a downstream paddle.