Walking this section
Introduction
This is a walking road shoulder bypass of the Whananui River from Pipiriki to Whanganui City, for those that do not opt for the main route kayaking the Whanganui River.
The Whanganui River winds its way from the mountains to the Tasman Sea through countless hills and valleys. Lowland forest surrounds the river in its middle and lower reaches, forming the heart of Whanganui National Park. Although a river journey, the Whanganui is part of New Zealand’s “Great Walks” network.
River transport is the only option from Mangapurua Landing to Pipiriki. You must pre-book this so jet boats can collect you at Mangapurua Landing. Alternatively hire a canoe to travel from Whakahoro to Pipiriki
From Pipiriki to Whanganui city - 76km
- Walk the Whanganui River Road (62 kms of tarsealed country road to SH4 then a further 14km to Whanganui; 3-4 days walking)
Distances between huts/campsites/exit points are as follows (with indicative times, though will vary person-to-person):
- Mangapurua to Tīeke Kāinga - 10.5km, 2hrs
- Tīeke Kāinga to Ngāporo campsite - 12.5km, 2.5hrs
- Ngāporo to Pipiriki - 9km, 1.5hrs
- Pipikiri to Jerusalem - 10.5km, 2hrs
- Jerusalem to Matahiwi Landing - 11km, 2hrs
- Matahiwi Landing to Koriniti Pā - 7km, 1.5hrs
- Koriniti Pā to Pungarehu Marae - 26.5km, 5hrs
- Pungarehu Marae to Upokongaro - 24km, 5hrs
- Upokongaro to Wanganui Top 10 Holiday Park - 3.5km, 45min
- Whanganui Top 10 Holiday Park to City Bridge - 7km, 1.25 hours
Track conditions
- Vehicles on road, stick to the left and single file if biking on the road.
- Narrow winding road with poor visibility. Wear a bright or fluorescent top
- Use your pack cover if it's more visible than your pack
- Vehicles on road or track - stick to the left & single file if biking on roads.
- River crossings - Never cross flooded rivers.
- Tracks exposed to sun, wind or cold
- Fires only in designated fireplaces
Accommodation
Trail Pass
Downes Hut - km 1,352.6 on the river route Included in the Trail Pass (Bookings Required)
Camping not permitted
The hut is on the west (true right) bank of the river and is not accessible from Whanganui River Road
Food and supplies
- Wilsons Hunting and Outdoors – Outdoor shop with food, gear, and repair options. We also accept bounce boxes at no charge and will forward gear on if arranged. Send packages to: 222 Victoria Ave, Whanganui 4500. Please have your name, TA Walker, phone and email, and estimated collection date visible on the box. Contact us at 06 348 7679