#taumarunui

[2bearbear]

New Zealand Travel Itinerary Day 10: Stopping at Taumarunui enroute to Huhu Chalet and Waitomo Ruakuri Caves! Day 10 of our travels in New Zealand was yet another highlight of our trip. This was because we were heading to the Waitomo Caves... ( Open Link to Read More.. ) https://www.2bearbear.com/new-zealand-travel-itinerary-day-10-stopping-at-taumarunui-enroute-to-huhu-chalet-and-waitomo-ruakuri-caves/

[orangeblur]

Carmen Rupe (Ngāti Maniapoto, Ngāti Hauā, Ngāti Heke-a-Wai, 1936-2011) was a flamboyant transgender women, performer, business owner and anti-discrimination activist who became a cultural icon in New Zealand and Australia. She owned several businesses in Wellington, including late-night cafes, an illicit sex venue, and The Balcony nightclub.

Born near Taumarunui in 1936, Carmen moved to Auckland in the 1950s, then to Sydney, where she made a living dancing and stripping at nightclubs in Kings Cross. It was here that she picked up many of the business ideas that she later deployed in Wellington. These ideas were ahead of their time for New Zealand, largely due to Carmen’s uninhibited and liberal views on sex and sexual orientation. She was openly and proudly transsexual.

In 1977 Carmen ran a high-profile campaign to become mayor of Wellington, supported by outspoken entrepreneur Bob Jones. Her campaign included calling for the decriminalisation of prostitution, abortion and homosexuality. She came fourth.

Carmen left New Zealand in the late 1970s and returned to Sydney, but she remains an inspiration to New Zealand’s gay and transgender communities.

[dame-de-pique]

Frank Evans - Katie Evans, Taumarunui, 1906

[themotormile]

Where to Start and Stop When You Canoe the Whanganui River

Why It Matters Where You Start and Stop When You Canoe the Whanganui River

Choosing where to start and stop when you canoe the Whanganui River can make or break your trip. Whether you're looking for a full five-day adventure or a short scenic paddle, planning ahead is key. You'll need to match the route to your time, fitness, and interests.

Matching Route Length With Time and Skill Level

Some paddlers want the whole experience, while others prefer a bite-sized adventure. If you're a beginner or have limited time, shorter sections might suit you better. If you're fit and ready for a challenge, the full 145-kilometer route is unforgettable.

Planning for Safety, Weather, and Access Points

Each section of the river has its own features and risks. Starting or ending in the wrong place can leave you unprepared for rapids or long stretches without shelter. Always check weather conditions and transport options.

Full Journey Option: Canoe the Whanganui River From Taumarunui to Pipiriki

Distance and Duration

This is the full Great Walk route by water—145 kilometers from Taumarunui to Pipiriki. It usually takes five days to complete. It’s a great way to experience everything the river has to offer: peaceful stretches, exciting rapids, deep gorges, and dense forest.

Major Sights Along the Way

The full route includes must-see places like:

Mangapurua Landing: The jump-off point for the Bridge to Nowhere.

John Coull Hut and Campsite: A popular place to rest.

Tīeke Kāinga: A living marae that offers cultural insight.

This route is ideal if you want to immerse yourself in both nature and culture.

Shorter Options to Canoe the Whanganui River

Whakahoro to Pipiriki (3 Days)

This is the most popular short trip. It covers about 87 kilometers and skips the more technical rapids near Taumarunui. It includes all the highlights with less time commitment.

Ohinepane to Whakahoro (2 Days)

This section is a good intro to river paddling. It includes small rapids, lovely views, and easier access points. It’s ideal for families and first-timers.

Best Day Trips for Beginners

For those not ready to commit to a multi-day trip, day tours from Whanganui offer a taste of the river. These are often combined with a Whanganui River cruise for a relaxed way to enjoy the scenery.

Where Most People Start to Canoe the Whanganui River

Taumarunui: The Official Starting Point

If you're doing the full trip, Taumarunui is the go-to starting place. It has rental outfitters, gear check services, and shuttle options. Be ready for longer paddling days and more rapids.

Whakahoro: The Most Popular Launch Site

Whakahoro is a common start for those doing the 3-day trip. It's remote but stunning. You'll get scenic views, calm stretches, and enough rapids to keep things interesting.

Ohinepane: Ideal for a Shorter Trip

Located closer to Taumarunui, Ohinepane is perfect for a quick overnight journey or a warm-up paddle. There's a DOC campsite right at the launch point.

Where to End Your Trip When You Canoe the Whanganui River

Pipiriki: The Most Common Finish Point

This is the official end of the Whanganui Journey. It’s a small riverside village with shuttle access, restrooms, and shelters. Many transport services operate here, making it a convenient endpoint.

Jerusalem: An Optional Stop with Cultural Value

Also known as Hiruhārama, this peaceful settlement offers cultural depth and quiet beauty. It’s not a typical finish point but is worth a stop if you’re continuing to Whanganui city.

Whanganui City: End of the Line and Start of the Road

Some paddlers continue to Whanganui city for a more urban end. It’s the perfect place to unwind, visit museums, or hop on a relaxing Whanganui River cruise if you're not paddling back.

Best Stops Along the Route to Canoe the Whanganui River

John Coull Hut

Located along the middle section of the river, this is one of the busiest DOC huts. It offers shelter, toilets, and stunning river views.

Tīeke Kāinga

This special site is run by local Māori. Visitors can learn about tikanga (customs) and the spiritual importance of the river. It’s also a DOC hut and campsite.

Mangapurua Landing and the Bridge to Nowhere

This is one of the biggest draws of the whole trip. A short hike from the landing takes you to the famous Bridge to Nowhere—a surreal reminder of a lost settlement.

Transport and Logistics for Your Whanganui River Journey

How to Get to and From Start and End Points

Whether you're starting in Taumarunui or Whakahoro, most canoe rental companies offer transport. At the end of your journey, shuttles from Pipiriki or Whanganui city make return trips easy.

Shuttle and Canoe Hire Services

Local outfitters offer packages that include gear, transport, safety gear, and route advice. Booking early is smart, especially in peak season (December–February).

Vehicle Relocation Options

Some companies offer vehicle relocation. You drive to your end point, and they move your car while you paddle. It’s a time-saver and great for self-guided trips.

How to Choose the Right Route to Canoe the Whanganui River

Time Constraints and Weather Considerations

Don’t overestimate what you can do in a day. Paddling takes time, especially in wind or rain. Always check DOC alerts and river flow conditions.

Fitness Level and Experience

If you're new to canoeing, pick a shorter route. The river has calm sections but can be tricky after heavy rain. Most sections are grade I to II, but even that can be challenging.

What You Want to See and Do

Looking for history? Stop at the Bridge to Nowhere. Want peace and nature? Stick to the upper stretches. Interested in culture? Don’t miss Tīeke Kāinga.

Final Tips for Planning Where to Start and Stop

Always Check River Conditions

The Whanganui River can rise quickly. Even experienced paddlers should respect its power. If DOC says don’t paddle, don’t paddle.

Book Campsites or Huts in Advance

During summer, campsites and huts fill up fast. Use the DOC website to book ahead. You'll get a better experience and avoid last-minute stress.

Coordinate With Tour or Rental Operators

These folks know the river best. They can help you pick the best start and stop points, give weather advice, and arrange pick-up services.

Bonus: Whanganui River Cruises for a Relaxed River Journey

Not everyone wants to paddle, and that’s okay. A Whanganui River cruise is a perfect way to see the river without the physical effort. Operators offer half-day or full-day cruises with guides explaining the river’s history, Māori heritage, and ecology.

These Whanganui River cruises are great for older travelers, families with young kids, or anyone looking for a more relaxed way to enjoy the river’s beauty.

[rosswallisma]

Day Ten

Really good nights sleep despite neighbours with thumpy music - I just put in my earplugs. In the morning a few of the children from last night, drawn to me like mosquitoes, came to chat. Very friendly. Another day of the spectacular Timber trail, steepish for the first 10k, then steadily downhill on what used to be a tram line, taking the timber out of the bush, and supplying the timber milling camps. Lots of fabulous suspension bridges, a spiral loop in the track, through a tunnel, lots of evidence of the timber industry - bits of rail, an old steam winding engine, the remains of the original bridges, less bumpy than yesterday, but bumpy enough that at one point my back wheel came loose and half jumped of its bracket - thankfully on a slow uphill rather than a fast and bumpy downhill. Another refreshing skinny dip, and the end of the trail, then 29k on a dusty back road to Taumarunui. Very hot, so I stopped for an ice cream at a random roadside café. The smells of New Zealand are so ingrained in my memory, the gum and pine trees, the smell of hot fern trees, hot dust, and hot sheep, and the taste of chocolate coated pineapple chunks bought in a supermarket!

On route I sat and chatted with Garcia, a recently retired Canadian, who plans to do the whole AT. She started with her husband a couple of weeks ago, but the whole of the 90 mile beach into headwind and rain did him in… so she is now riding with Sebastian, a young German with all the kit. I was talking about drinking water from streams, and she gave me some sterilising tablets.

I arrived in Taumarunui just as the heavens opened, with much apocalyptic thunder and lightning, ducking into a supermarket, hopefully to stock up for the coming four days.

Poor Garcia and Sebastian, a couple of hours behind me, caught in the deluge.

Sitting now in the supermarket, waiting for the rain to lessen, before finding a campsite for the night.

Which I have now found - complete with kitchen, hot showers and WiFi… but off line again now till Whanganui I think, in three days time. I am running low on gas, as I’m boiling water - so didn’t buy any food that needed cooking, and regretting that now, as I sit in the fully functional kitchen of the campsite, sheltered from the rain, thinking about the macaroni cheese that I didn’t buy, and eating dry focaccia.

In the shared kitchen are an American couple from Colorado, my sort of age, and three younger Americans from Philadelphia, with serious off road cycling kit - raving about my retro Cannondale, with its original railway station logo.

[canoesafaris]

Experience the Whanganui River Like Never Before in a Kayak

The Whanganui River is not just a body of water; it’s a journey through time, culture, and natural wonder. Whether you are an adventure enthusiast or seeking a tranquil escape, exploring this iconic river in a kayak offers an unmatched experience. From breathtaking landscapes to rich Maori heritage, a Whanganui River kayak adventure promises memories that will last a lifetime.

1. Discover the Beauty of the Whanganui River

The Whanganui River winds through lush forests, rugged cliffs, and serene valleys, creating a picturesque setting for kayaking. With every paddle stroke, you’ll uncover hidden gems, including cascading waterfalls, native wildlife, and tranquil spots perfect for a break.

"Nature’s peace will flow into you as sunshine flows into trees." – John Muir.

A Whanganui River kayak journey lets you immerse yourself in the pristine beauty of New Zealand's landscapes, far away from the hustle of daily life.

2. Embrace a Unique Cultural Journey

The Whanganui River is significant in Maori culture. Known as Te Awa Tupua, the river is considered a living entity with legal personhood. As you glide along its waters, you’re not just kayaking—you’re connecting with a deeply spiritual and historical landmark.

Guided Whanganui River kayak tours often include stories and insights about the river’s cultural heritage. You’ll learn about the local iwi (tribes) and their strong ties to the river, enriching your adventure with meaning and respect.

3. Perfect for All Skill Levels

Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or a first-timer, kayaking on the Whanganui River is accessible to everyone. Various routes are available to match your skill level and time constraints. From short half-day trips to multi-day expeditions, there’s something for everyone.

For those seeking a challenge, the multi-day journey from Taumarunui to Pipiriki spans 145 kilometres of stunning scenery. Families and beginners can opt for shorter, calmer routes that capture the river’s magic.

No matter your experience level, a Whanganui River kayak adventure ensures a safe and enjoyable trip with options for guided tours or self-guided expeditions.

4. Adventure Meets Serenity

Kayaking down the Whanganui River offers the perfect balance of excitement and peace. As you paddle through gentle rapids or drift along calm stretches, you’ll feel a sense of harmony with the natural world.

The river provides endless opportunities for adventure. Explore side trails leading to hidden caves, stop by historical sites like the Bridge to Nowhere, or simply let the sound of the water soothe your soul. Each moment on a Whanganui River kayak is an opportunity to reconnect with nature.

5. What to Pack for Your Kayaking Adventure

Packing the right gear ensures a comfortable and safe experience. Essentials include:

A waterproof dry bag for your valuables

Sunscreen and a hat for protection against the sun

Comfortable clothing that dries quickly

Snacks and water to keep your energy up

Many operators offer equipment rentals, including kayaks, paddles, and life jackets, making it easy to embark on your Whanganui River kayak journey with minimal hassle.

6. Eco-Friendly Travel on the River

Kayaking is one of the most eco-friendly ways to explore the Whanganui River. Choosing a kayak minimises your environmental footprint while you enjoy an up-close encounter with nature. Remember to follow the Leave No Trace principles: pack out what you pack in and respect the natural environment and wildlife.

By hiring a professional guide for a Whanganui River kayak, you’re having an adventure and contributing to preserving one of New Zealand’s most treasured landscapes.

Conclusion

A kayak trip on the Whanganui River is more than just an outdoor activity—a journey that touches the soul. From its awe-inspiring beauty to its rich cultural significance, the river offers an experience.

Whether you’re looking for adventure, serenity, or a deeper connection to New Zealand’s heritage, the Whanganui River has it all. Book your Whanganui River kayak adventure today and let the river guide you to unforgettable memories.

[nzconservationjobs]

Hut Warden/Ranger - Department of Conservation - Whanganui

Live and work in one of New Zealand’s most spectacular natural environments –Whanganui National Park! The salary range for this position is $58,816 to $66,578 Permanent, full-time role based in either Pipiriki, Taumarunui or Whanganui Our vision: Nature is thriving in Aotearoa | Te Oranga o te Ao Tūroa The Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai (DOC) serves to protect and restore nature…

[terraencounters-blog-blog]

New Zealand — Tectonic Tongariro

Tongariro has spectacular turquoise lakes and volcanoes. Taumarunui has quintessential rolling green hills. Waitomo has awe inspiring glowworms shining like stars in the dark. @PureNewZealand #newzealand #nz #travelnz #NZMustDo #travel #hiking #nature

Why visit Tongariro, Taumarunui, and Waitomo? Is it worth visiting Tongariro, Taumarunui, and Waitomo regions? Tongariro is worthwhile but you need to do a hiking track to see the most spectacular views of turquoise lakes and volcanoes. Taumarunui is Quintessential New Zealand with white sheep on rolling green hills. Seeing glowworms shining like stars in the dark is awe inspiring. We liked…

[frankego]

肥宅哈比人魔戒之旅-2023紐西蘭北島行(6)這個下去這麼深有沒有上升負荷你要確定耶

　　在小木屋好好休息了一天，今天開始的行程是一路往北往回奧克蘭的方向開，中間再停各個旅遊景點．今天規劃要去的是來到紐西蘭北島旅遊一定會去的知名景點Waitomo Glowworm Caves懷托摩螢火蟲洞．這個景點本來是排在第二天的行程，但是因為班機的延誤，所以行程往後挪才挪到這天．

早上一邊吃早餐一邊看超放鬆的神秘毛利文化台的早晨帶動操節目

離���前在大廳看到兩個鱒魚門檔，這裡的人愛鱒魚愛得深沉．

路途上的風光也是很值得一看的美，但是坐在前座開車的兩個人聽說一直看到路死的動物（怕）

　　路過一個叫做Taumarunui的城鎮，在這邊休息上廁所，這裡是一個公路與鐵路的一個交會點，但是因為我們來的這天是國定假日，紐西蘭政府規定復活節假期的第一天Good Friday以及復活節假期的最後一天Easter Monday，除了某些觀光地區的咖啡店加油站和民生小商店，以及少部分地方自治規定之外，所有的連鎖超市，商店，餐廳，百貨公司，電影院都必須放假不能營��或部分營業，也有的店家乾脆就連放四天復活節假期，當初制訂是為了保障勞工階級參加活動與家人相聚的權利，所以雖然已經快十點了，街上的店都是關門而且大街上都沒什麼人．也是相當特殊的文化體驗

裝飾藝術風格的老戲院

　　開了幾個小時，到了Waitomo地區，Waitomo的意思是有水的洞窟/陷洞，所以這一帶有很龐大且複雜的石灰岩地下洞窟網路與地下水流，來這個地方不外乎有四種玩法：

１．Ruakuri Cave鐘乳石洞窟導覽

２．Waitomo Glowworm Caves　螢火蟲洞坐小船導覽

３．Black Water Rafting　黑水漂

４．洞窟攀岩、垂降及滑索＋黑水漂

如果是年輕人又不怕水的話強烈建議選３４，如果不想弄濕，或是同行有需要坐博愛座的人員或是像肥宅兄弟一樣的奧笑連的話建議選１２

　　送走了參加黑水漂的同行後，首先我們來到了Ruakuri Cave，Ruakuri 的意思是狗窩，據��四五百年前來到這裡的毛利人看到洞口處有野狗在此生活因而得名．後來也有洞穴被當作墓場，因而有些洞窟是屬於毛利人心靈世界領域的聖地．

直達地底的螺旋樓梯，中間有一個不斷滴落地下水的岩石，據說是毛利聖地．

一進去洞裡就看到絕美的鐘乳石奇景

步道之間洞窟的縫隙，可以聽到地下河流和瀑布被放大的水流聲，感覺底下有不小的地下水量．

各式各樣的鐘乳石與石灰岩層

　　還會看到一些海底生物如珊瑚或貝殼的痕跡化石，因為這些石灰岩層就是數百萬年前海底生物遺骸的沉積，經過地層的抬升冒出水面，再經過與水與地下水的滲透與掏洗而形成的大自然的奇景．

這是��下６４公尺處直通往地面的洞　

裡面也有一些展示一些當年探窟家的艱辛

重點來了!

洞裡可以看到神秘的發出藍光的藍色螢火蟲!

然而藍色螢火蟲背後的真實是

.......

所謂的藍色螢火蟲其實是一種成蟲像是不會飛的蚊子的昆蟲幼蟲，大部分的生命週期是一種蠕蟲，他的覓食方式就是在尾端發出藍光，並伸出這些濕濕黏黏的絲線，吸引獵物入網．但他們對光和聲音都很敏感，所以只能生活在洞窟裡．

　　第二個螢火蟲洞坐船導覽很可惜因為不開放拍照攝影，所以沒有照片，只有最後快出洞口的時候允許拍照而已，但是裡面的螢火蟲量比Ruakuri Cave的數量多很多，導覽過程會先帶你到一個很大的洞窟裡，據說是宴會廳，因為音響效果很好，舉辦過不少演奏會和音樂錄製之類的活動，這裡他有說了一個小故事就是以前毛利人來到這裡的時侯，因為這裡的洞穴錯綜複雜，要怎麼記路呢？答案就是看鐘乳石的形狀想像一個東西，比方說動物或器物之類的給他命名，如此才不會迷路．

　　玩了一天晚上回到營地，我們煮了蒜頭雞當做晚餐，在異鄉吃到家鄉味就是爽！

待續

[benforster-grad604]

Pohewa Pāhewa - The curators (SDL) Week 2

https://www.objectspace.org.nz/exhibitions/pohewa-pahewa-a-maori-design-kaupapa/Links to an external site.

Desna Whaanga-Schollum

Desna Whaanga-Schollum is a New Zealand artist, born and raised in Maori blood, on the east coast of NZ. Studying a Masters of Science in Communication at Otago University she found herself constantly tying back to her roots and pushing into indigenous design and art. She is the original founding member and Chair of Ngā Aho (Māori Design Professionals Inc), also exhibiting many of her artworks in many solo and group shows around New Zealand.

Tyrone Ohia

Tyrone Ohia is a graphic designer, born in Tauranga and raised in Whanganui, studying a bachelor of Computer Graphic Design at the Universal Collage Of Learning he found himself winning a Certificate of Typographic Excellence from the New York Type Directors Club in his final year, further going on work at various design studios in Wellington and now working alongside Alt Group in Auckland.

 Graham Tipene

 Graham Tipene is a Tā Moko artist, born and raised in Auckland by his foster mother, who studied and practised Māori art at Auckland University of Technology. Tipene later established the Te Wheke Moko Design Studio, and has also been involved as a consultant and key artist on civic and Council-led projects throughout Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland. His public work brings Māori kaupapa into the built environment of the city, within major projects.

Johnson Witehira

Johnson Witehira is an artist, designer and academic, born in Taumarunui and raised in Gisborne. Johnson of Tamahaki and Ngāi Tū-te-auru descent studied a Masters of Graphic Design and a Doctorate in Māori visual arts at Massey. He is the co-founder of Āpōpō and Indigenous Design & Innovation Aotearoa (IDIA) and has been on a mission to bring Māori culture into all aspects of New Zealand life.

Zoe Black

Zoe Black is the deputy director of Objectspace in Auckland, Aotearoa New Zealand. She has been working in galleries for the past eight years. Her curatorial practice has focused on community development and advocating for critically under-represented craft and object art forms. She is Norwegian Crafts' curator in residence (2020–2022), working on projects that create a dialogue between Indigenous making practices in Aotearoa and Sápmi.

[slidesworthseeing]

Taumarunui Railway Station, Aotearoa New Zealand, circa 1964, in stereo. Photo by MacDonald S Reed

[turnbullephemera]

The King Country team won this match against Wanganui 11 to 3. All Black great Colin Meads first played for King Country in 1955 at the age of 19, but we are not certain if he played in this game. Meads ended up playing 125 matches for King Country (as well as 132 matches for New Zealand!)

King Country Rugby Union (Inc) :Representative football, Taumarunui Domain, Saturday 3rd September 1955. King Country v Wanganui, at 2.30 pm. Curtain raiser third grade representatives at 1 pm - Maniapoto v Taumarunui. [Printed by] F Darvill Ltd [1955]

Eph-D-RUGBY-1955-01

[must-be-mythtaken]

Thairrific food. I love finding oddities in small towns

[jontycrane]

Taumarunui

A small town a long way from the major centres, Taumarunui was a pleasant place to rest up before tackling the Timber Trail. That and Taumarunui being at the start of both the Forgotten Highway and Whanganui Journey has resulted in a relative tourist boom. The town of nearly 5,000 people grew off the back of transport on the river, then the railways, and more recently forestry and farming. The…

[carolynenting]

Exploring the old rail trail along the Forgotten World Highway with @forgottenworldadventures is quite an experience and includes travelling through lots of tunnels and gorgeous country in rail modified golf carts! #forgottenworldadventures #taumarunui #travel #newzealand (at Forgotten World Adventures) https://www.instagram.com/p/CHpQVHJsftj/?igshid=qxr8v846d9n2