Whanganui National Park - Manawatu-Wanganui

The Whanganui National Park is located in the central North Island north of Wanganui City. The small towns of Taumarunui, Pipiriki, Ohinepane and Whakahoro provide access to hiking and canoeing experiences in the park.The main point of this national park is to protect the upper reaches of the Whanganui River. Winding from Tongariro National Park to the Tasman Sea through wild lowland forests, this river was once an important transport route for both Maori and early European settlers. Western tributaries of the Whanganui flow through mudstone gorges and valleys, which colour the river waters. To the east the waters are clearer and are an important habitat for the whio (a native torrent duck).As New Zealand's longest navigable waterway, the Whanganui turns on a great river journey. Taumarunui is the starting point for most canoe or kayak safaris; huts and campsites are spaced along the river. An overnight stay at Tieke Marae is a special highlight. Run by local Maori, the marae is a chance to see traditional customs in action.Jetboating is another way to enjoy this national park. From Pipiriki you can journey up the river to the Bridge to Nowhere, which is all that remains of Mangapurua, an isolated settlement that was abandoned in 1942.