Wanganui to Taumarunui - 4 Day

How many people have poled or winched up a rapid in a large boat?
Where else in the world can you experience this?

This trip appeals to the more adventurous type of person and the number of passengers is limited. Days onboard are about 8 hours long consisting of both uphill slog and quiet gentle sections and you just become involved as each obsticle is mastered one after the other – and yes, some rapids normally need to be winched or poled.

Ranana Run – Stage 1
The engine takes on a determined note as we leave the tidal zone and start heading upriver. We may need to winch the boat through rapids if the water is low.
This region is historically significant and we will see the beautifully restored flour mill at Matahiwi. About 5.00 pm we arrive at Ranana Marae where we will be greeted with a Powhiri (Maori Welcome) treated to a generous 3 course meal, a Kapa Haka (traditional dance) and be guests of the Marae for the night.

Bridge to Nowhere Run – Stage 2
On day 2 we pass Moutoa island, the site of a fierce battle then enter the most scenic stretch of the Whanganui River. There is Jerusalem with its microclimate that once made it the fruit bowl of New Zealand, historic Pipiriki and the famous drop scene. At late afternoon we berth at the Bridge to Nowhere lodge where we enjoy a buffet dinner and stay the night in the comfort of this iconic location.
The last big boat up here was in the 1940's.
www.whanganuiriveraccommodation.co.nz/

Whakahoro Run – Stage 3
This most scenic stretch of the river proceeds through a series deep georges with steep banks. The splendour of the rugged formations and vertical drops is surpassed only by the spectacular beauty of the untouched sub-tropical flora.
We will disembark to visit the Bridge to Nowhere and hear its strange story.
Around mid afternoon we enter the Retaruke River berthing at Whakahoro, 37 miles to the south of Taumarunui - our lodgings for the night.
www.blueducklodge.co.nz  

Taumarunui Run – Stage 4
This section is the most challenging as much of the headwaters is diverted for electricity production.

Only under high water conditions will Taumarunui be reached.

The last big boat up here was in 1928.

This is an experience you will never forget.

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