Whanganui River Road Tours is a group interactive, cultural
and scenic tour, providing access to the lower and middle
reaches of the Whanganui River valley, it’s culture, history
and National Park.

There is particular reference to the relationship that river dwellers both past and present experience with the Whanganui River.

We offer fully customised group tours of six people or more. Through your own
individual experience you will absorb the majestic beauty and gain a personal
perspective of the history and culture of the Whanganui River.

Experience what many describe as Stepping into a Different World.

The Whanganui River begins high up in the volcanic plateau of the central North Island at Mt Tongariro, then travels north towards Taumarunui before heading south for 260km towards Wanganui. Its journey to the sea passes through the native tree and fern clad hills of the Whanganui National Park.

The upper reaches of the river are cloaked in dense rainforest and lead to the deeply incised gorges of the middle reaches. Tree ferns and rare native plants cling to the steep riverbanks and morning mist clings to the surface of the water from dawn, rising slowly with the light of day.

This dramatic landscape opens out in the lower reaches of the river to follow rolling farmland and open valleys to the coastal dunes and cliffs which border the Tasman Sea to the west.

Rory Smith is the Director and principal guide of Whanganui River Road Tours.

Rory has a 17 year connection with the Whanganui River as a tourism operator. His reputation, experience, and relationships with local people and iwi make him unique.

Whanganui River Road Tours began operation in 2004, and reflects Rory’s passion for the river and its history. Take a day with Rory to gain insight from local knowledge, and to experience the enchanting wonders of the Whanganui River.

Koriniti Marae ~ where we have permission to tour the Marae including viewing the Taonga (treasures) in the two restored Wharenui. Full Marae visits/stays are possible.

Stop at Jerusalem/Hiruharama ~ the most photographed village on the Whanganui River Road, and tour the Church and Convent that symbolise Sister Susanna Albert’s work. Jerusalem was also the site of James K. Baxter’s commune that was operating in the early 1970s.

Kawana Flour Mill ~ built in 1854 and renovated some 30 years ago is an excellent example of early European commerce on the Whanganui River.

Touch the water at Pipiriki ~ Originally the largest Pa in the region, Pipiriki is the final settlement on the River Road. It is the starting point for the jet boat trip to the Bridge to Nowhere and is also the finishing point for the three day canoe trip from Whakahoro.

Tour Extras ~ Jet boat tours as an addition to the standard tour are available and can usually be arranged for any part between the city and Pipiriki although the trip from Pipiriki to the Bridge to Nowhere is by far the most popular.
Canoeing, both guided and unguided are also options along with bush walks.

The minimum group size is six people. Prices begin at $70 per person but may decrease for larger groups.

All operators employed by Whanganui River Road Tours that assist in providing services such as jet boating and canoeing carry both Qualmark and Department of Conservation certification.

For more information or tour bookings, contact us:

Whanganui River Road Tours
Rory Smith, telephone 027 318 9803

tour@whanganuiriverroad.com

Tours are defined by numbers and arranged by appointment