Whanganui National Park

The Whanganui National Park surrounds the magical Whanganui River. A historically important transport route for both Maori and European settlers, the winding river is now best known as home to the Whanganui Great Walks canoeing journey.

Whanganui National Park contains the largest lowland native forest in the North Island, and is an important sanctuary for many native plants, birds and insects.

Whanganui National Park

Location

Located in the central North Island, Whanganui National Park lies between Taumarunui (to the north) and Wanganui (to the south).

Getting to Whanganui National Park

Whanganui National Park can be accessed from all directions – surrounding towns including Taumarunui, Wanganui, Pipiriki, Ohinepane and Whakahoro.

Regular shuttle services run from both Taumarunui and Wanganui.

The Whanganui River also runs through the park, meaning it can be accessed by jetboat, kayak or canoe.

Accommodation in Whanganui National Park

Accommodation can be found in the towns surrounding the park.

Inside the park, backcountry huts are located along the hiking routes, and a number of riverside camping grounds line the Whanganui River.

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Activities in Whanganui National Park

Hiking & Walking
One of the most popular long walks is the Matemateonga Track – which takes 3-4 days one way. Transport by jet boat is needed to or from the end of the track.
Hunting
Boating
Fishing

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Whanganui National Park Fauna & Flora

The Whanganui National Park is quite unlike any other National Park in the country.

The forest is comprised of thick broadleaf/podocarp, with rata, rewarewa, rimu, tawa and kowhai mingling with riverside tree ferns.

Bird species in the park include kereru (native pigeon), piwakawaka (fantail), tui, toutouwai (robin), riroriro (grey warbler) and miromiro (tomtit). Brown kiwis also inhabit the park, but are seldom seen. Native trout and fresh water crayfish are also found in the park's waterways.