Activities in Whanganui National Park
Tracks and walks
Short walks and longer tramping trips are all possible in the park. The Matemateaonga Track is one of the most popular longer trips (3 - 4 days one way). It follows an old Maori trail and settlers dray road deep into the park. transport by jet is needed to or from the river end of the track.
Hunting
Hunting of pigs, goats and fallow deer in the park is encouraged. The Whanganui River Valley within the park is closed to hunting during the peak usage season from the 1st of October until the 30th of April. Tracks are closed to hunting from 20th December to the 20th February and over Easter.
Hunters require a hunting permit. You can get permits from the Department of Conservation
Hunting dogs require a separate permit from the Whanganui Area Office.
Always check where pesticides have been laid - view the Whanganui pesticide summary.
More information on hunting in Whanganui National Park see Whanganui hunting.
Boating and fishing
The Whanganui is New Zealand's longest navigable river, canoeable for over 200 kilometres. There are huts and campsites along the river. Tieke Hut is run as a Marae (meeting house) by local Maori and traditional customs are observed.
The trip down the river is classified a Great Journey and from October to April a River Journey Pass is required to use the facilities on the river. It is a relatively easy river to canoe or kayak and is suitable for novices. Hire and tour options are offered. Jetboating is also popular. Jetboat and launch tours are available.
Brown and rainbow trout are found in the Whanganui River and its tributaries.
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Guided activities and tours