The river – Te Awa o Whanganui – forms the heart and history of Whanganui.
As the longest navigable river in New Zealand, the Whanganui River is popular for aquatic adventures of all kinds, whether you’re travelling by canoe, kayak, paddle steamer or high speed jet boat.
Beginning on the slopes of Mount Tongariro, the Whanganui River flows to Taumarunui and on through the Whanganui National Park and the city before joining the sea at Castlecliff.
Choose from a sedate cruise past city suburbs, a multi-day journey paddling in the National Park, a quick jet boat blast to discover the intriguing Bridge to Nowhere or stay ashore as you drive or bike the scenic Whanganui River Road.
A site of huge cultural and historical importance for Māori, the Whanganui River is also the only river in the world to be granted the same legal status as a person.
