The Whakatīkei River is a small river located within the Akatarawa Forest, a network of mountain bike and 4WD trails in the Wellington region of New Zealand's North Island. It flows into the Hutt River (Te Awa Kairangi) and is graded I/II/III depending on the section paddled. The river has a notably wild and untouched character once on the water, with pretty gorges along the upper and middle sections that appeal particularly to packrafters and trampers.

Flow levels are the critical planning factor for this river. Because the catchment is small, water levels rise and drop rapidly in response to rainfall. Kayakers consider the lower section a flood run, and during summer the riverbed can be largely dry and walkable. The best approach is to paddle shortly after a significant rain event. Since the river has no publicly accessible gauge of its own, the Akatarawa River at Cemetery gauge serves as the best available approximation of conditions.

The Hutt Valley Canoe Club runs regular trips on the Whakatīkei, making it a recognized local paddling destination for whitewater enthusiasts in the region.

For access, the take-out options include a footbridge just before the Whakatīkei meets the Hutt River, with parking available at designated spots at the end of the cul-de-sac on Cory Jane Grove in River Stone Terraces. Paddlers can also continue a short distance down the Hutt River for additional rapids and easier driving access, with alternative take-outs at Hutt River/Poet's Corner or Hutt River/Moonshine Bridge.

Given its proximity to Wellington and its position within a managed forest area, the river is accessible but remains relatively lightly paddled, contributing to its undeveloped feel on the water.