Choose Your Own Adventure

At Owhango Adventures, we offer a range of self-guided canoe and kayak hire options—giving you the freedom to paddle at your own pace, without a guide.

From relaxed 1-day trips to the iconic 5-day Whanganui River Journey (covering the river’s entire navigable length), there’s something for every level of explorer.

Want a guide? No problem—guided trips are available on request.

Freedom to Explore at Your Own Pace

Set your own schedule, stop when you like, and soak in the scenery without being rushed. It’s your adventure, your way.

Deeper Connection with Nature

Immerse yourself in Aotearoa’s pristine wilderness—from untouched bush to native birdlife and stunning river gorges—without distractions.

1-Day River Journey

Nga Huinga (Taumarunui) to Ohinepane

Enjoy the upper reaches of the majestic Whanganui River. The trip starts at Ngohuinga in Taumarunui and ends in about 4.5 hours later. Enjoy Lauren’s Lavender Farm Cafe along the way.

  • Difficulty: Advanced

  • 4.5 hours

  • From NZD $00.00

2-Day River Journey

Ohinepane to Whakahoro – Free Accommodation

Our most popular overnight paddle! For those with less time on their hands! Embark on an unforgettable adventure with our 2-Day Freedom Hire Canoe Journey on the Whanganui River.

  • Dificulty: Easy

  • 2 days +1 night

  • From NZD $230pp

3-Day River Journey

Whakahoro to Pipiriki – No Accommodation

3 Days gives you a great amount of time to explore the most beautiful scenery on the Whanganui River. Includes shuttle from our base to journey start point and the journey end point back to our base.

  • Difficulty: Hard

  • Duration: 4.5 hours

  • Price: NZD $00.00

4-Day River Journey

Ohinepane to Pipiriki – 1 night free accommodation

Immerse yourself in the mesmerizing beauty of nature, where every paddle stroke takes you deeper into the serene heart of Whanganui National Park – 1 Night Free Accommodation at our Base.

  • Dificulty: Moderate

  • 4 days + 3 nights

  • From NZD $250.00pp

4-Day River Journey

Whakahoro to Pipiriki – 1 night free accommodation

5-Days from ohinepane to Pipiriki makes for a relaxed journey with easy paddling distances, perfect for those wanting to really enjoy the scenery. 1 Night Free Accommodation at our base.

  • Difficulty: Moderate

  • 4 days + 3 nights

  • From NZD $250.00pp

5-Day River Journey

Ohinepane to Pipiriki – 1 night free accommodation

Enjoy the upper reaches of the majestic Whanganui River. The trip starts at Ngohuinga in Taumarunui and ends in about 4.5 hours later. Enjoy Lauren’s Lavender Farm Cafe along the way.

  • Dificulty: Moderate

  • 5 days + 4 nights

  • From NZD $260.00pp

**Difficulty Levels:

Easy – Suitable for beginners, families, or first-timers   |   Moderate – Some experience or fitness recommended   |   Challenging – For confident paddlers with good fitness   |   Advanced – Experience required; suitable for seasoned adventurers   |   Expert – Technical skill and high fitness essential

feel the excitement

Why Choose Us

Qualified Team

Our Qualified Cultural Navigators love to share their homelands and stories as you traverse the Whanganui River.

Born and Bred

Born and bred on the banks of the Whanganui River, we have a cultural experience waiting to share with you in our own backyard.

Best Location

Ideally located in the central Ruapehu Region, surrounded by scenic bush and the Whanganui and Whakapapa Rivers on our doorstep.

Fully Licensed

One of a small few who are authorised by DOC (Department of Conservation) as a licensed operator on the Whanganui River.