Image: Daniel Deans | DOC
John Coull Campsite.
John Coull Campsite

Located in Whanganui National Park in the Manawatu/Whanganui region

This is a boat-in only campsite on the Whanganui Journey. There is no drive on access.

In this remote setting, you will be able to look and listen for kereru, tui and fantail, while brown kiwi can often be heard at night. At dusk you may also see bats. The forest is a mix of rata, rewarewa, rimu, tawa and kowhai trees. 

Fees

In the Great Walks season (1 October – 30 April)

  • Adult (18 years and over): $19 per person, per night
  • Child (5 to 17 years): $9 per person, per night

Outside the Great Walks season (1 May  – 30 September)

  • Adult (18 years and over): $12 per person, per night
  • Child (5 to 17 years): $6 per person, per night

The DOC Campsite Pass cannot be used at this campsite. 

Bookings

Bookings are required if you want to stay between 1 October – 30 April as part of the Whanganui Journey.

Book John Coull Campsite.

You can only access this campsite from the Whanganui River.

Tracks to this campsite

Location

The campsite is situated 95.5 km downstream from Taumarunui.

NZTM2000 coordinates: E1765126, N5655601
Latitude: -39.2331696, Longitude: 174.91415657
  • Maximum 2 consecutive nights stay for Whanganui Journey river trip campers
  • No fires are permitted at this campground
  • Boil, filter or treat water if you doubt its purity
  • There is no cellphone coverage on the Whanganui River.
  • Wasps are a known hazard and are particularly common from January until May. Carry antihistamine if you are allergic to their stings
  • New Zealand's weather can be highly unpredictable - expect weather changes and be prepared for them. More information: Check the Whanganui rural area weather forecast of the MetService website.

On the Whanganui River, be aware that:

  • Heavy rain and flooding can occur at any time of year on the Whanganui River and the weather can change quickly. You will need to be prepared for rain, cold and windy conditions.
  • Don’t canoe the river when water levels are predicted to rise or it is in flood - you won't be charged for staying an extra night at a campsite or hut due to high river levels. If you capsize, you may not be able to get back in, or swim to the river’s edge.
  • Canoeing into the wind can be demanding – allow extra travelling time between stopovers in windy conditions.
  • Always pull your canoe up high on the bank and tie it to something secure. It may not be raining on the river, but rain elsewhere in the large catchment can cause the river to rise several metres overnight.

More information:

For a comprehensive gear list, read New Zealand Recreational Canoeing Association’sGuide to the Whanganui River.