Aside from Whanganui’s spiritual and cultural significance to Māori, it is the first river to be granted the status of personhood. The body of water is home to abundant plant and animal resources. Since it’s the longest navigable body of water in New Zealand, it’s a prime travel destination for canoeing tours. Anyone who wants to experience its full grandeur can conveniently join guided tours like the famous Bridge to Nowhere tour.
If you’re planning to explore the significant beauty of this spiritual destination through this famous tour, this article is for you. We’ll give you helpful tips and details on what to expect from your first river cruise journey, whether alone or with your loved ones. Let’s start with the basics.
1. Who can join the Bridge to Nowhere Tour?
The answer to this question depends on the difficulty level of the tour. The two-day, easy rider level of the Bridge to Nowhere tour is safe for beginner adults and kids. It’s also a shorter, convenient option as it involves beginner canoeing and jetboating skills that everyone can enjoy.
2. How much should you pay for a Whanganui River tour?
The Bridge to Nowhere tour is a safe and affordable Whanganui River beginner cruise. An adult and child ticket costs $785. This fee covers meals, guide fees, operational costs, and other trip expenses. You can also enjoy discounts by going with a bigger group.
3. What does this special Whanganui River trip cover?
This trip covers the cruising and exploration of the river’s idyllic 87-kilometre national park section. Adventurers depart from Ohakune, paddle on canoes most of the way, and end the cruise with a thrilling jetboat ride down the rapids of the Pipiriki area of the river.
4. What to bring for a River adventure?
Like any outdoor adventure, you must be well-equipped and ready for the unexpected. Bring appropriate canoeing clothes, wet suits, waterproof jackets, leggings, gloves, tracksuits, and camping clothes. For your footwear, pick the safer option, like sandshoes and sandals. Since the trip includes base camping, don’t forget to bring all the basics. This gear includes a sleeping bag, insect repellent, torch, sunscreen, extra snacks, sunglasses, water bottle, first aid kit, and ropes, to name a few.
5. When is the best month to tour the famous river?
Adventurers and locals advise visiting this natural wonder from October through April if you want to enjoy the best weather conditions. Short tours like Bridge to Nowhere operate from October to May. However, they can also accommodate special trips for Christmas and New Year.
6. Can I customise my Whanganui adventure?
If you want a more customised itinerary that suits your skill level and the type of adventure you want to take on, it’s possible. Just find recommended companies that organise canoe, rafting, and jetboating trips in the area.
Whatever travel agency you choose, make sure they are licensed. They should have an active membership with the NZ Rafting Association and a qualified member of the New Zealand Outdoor Industry Association (NZOIA).