Now offering Guided Canoe trips. Gift Vouchers available.
Experience the Whanganui River with Blazing Paddles
Canoeing | Jet Boat | Fly Fishing | Helicopter | Hunting | Accommodation
Which adventure will you choose?
Guided Canoe Trips • Freedom Hire • Multi-Day River Adventures
Discover one of New Zealand’s most iconic wilderness journeys with Blazing Paddles, your locally owned and operated canoe adventure specialists based in Taumarunui, Ruapehu. Our guided and freedom hire canoe trips take you deep into the native bush, history, and beauty of the Whanganui River Journey — one of New Zealand’s Great Walks (by river).
Whether you’re a first-time paddler, a family looking for an unforgettable holiday, or an adventure-lover ready for a multi-day trip from Taumarunui to Pipiriki, we provide everything you need for a safe, enjoyable, and truly memorable experience.
Why Choose Blazing Paddles?
Local Guides. Safer Trips. Better Experiences.
✔ Fully guided or freedom hire options
✔ Local Ruapehu family-run business with deep knowledge of the awa
✔ Safe, well-maintained canoes and equipment
✔ Shuttle transport to and from the river
✔ Pre-trip briefings and river safety guidance
✔ Competitive pricing with no hidden costs
✔ Adventure activity audited (Qualworks) & WorkSafe registered
✔ Friendly, experienced guides who make the journey fun, safe, and easy
We pride ourselves on offering a personalised, supportive experience so every paddler — beginner or experienced — feels confident on the water.
For more information email us on info@blazingpaddles.co.nz
Call 0800 252 946 or text 021 991 564
Our Whanganui River Canoe Trips
Fully Guided Canoe Trips
Join our experienced river guides for a fully supported canoe journey. Perfect for families, school groups, first-timers, and anyone wanting a safer, stress-free adventure. Learn about local history, paddle confidently through gentle rapids, and relax knowing everything is taken care of.
Freedom Hire Canoe Trips
Confident paddlers can explore the Whanganui River at their own pace with our quality canoe hire packages. We’ll brief you on river safety, help you plan your route, and provide all the equipment you need for a successful journey.
Multi-Day Whanganui River Journey (Taumarunui to Pipiriki)
Take on the full 145km Whanganui Journey, one of New Zealand’s most scenic adventure routes. Drift through lush native bush, explore historic sites, paddle past waterfalls, and camp at beautiful DOC sites along the way.
Safety First – Adventure Approved
Blazing Paddles is a WorkSafe-registered Adventure Activity Operator (AAO) and is fully audited through Qualworks. We follow strict safety protocols, maintain high-quality equipment, and ensure every paddler understands the river and feels ready for the journey ahead.
Your safety is our priority — and your experience is our passion.
What You’ll See on the River
Towering sheer cliffs
Deep green native bush
Hidden waterfalls
Historic bridge sites
Famous Whanganui River rapids (beginner friendly)
Peaceful valleys and wildlife
DOC campsites
Whakahoro "Blue Duck" country
It’s one of the most stunning river experiences in Aotearoa.
Ready to Paddle? Book Today
Canoe trips on the Whanganui River fill up fast — especially during summer and school holidays.
Secure your guided or freedom hire adventure now.
👉 Book Your Whanganui River Canoe Trip
👉 Contact Us for Custom Group Bookings
Need help choosing the right trip?
We're here to help! Call us, send a message, or chat through your ideas — we’ll recommend the best Whanganui River experience for you.
Don't Forget to Check the Weather
Your safety is important to us. We may postpone or cancel your trip if the weather or river levels are unsafe. The Whanganui River is considered unsafe for canoeing when the Levels are above 1.5m at Te Maire.
