The third longest river in New Zealand, the Whanganui rises on the slopes of Mount Tongariro, winding off the Central Plateau west down to Taumarunui, where it gains stature before turning south to snake its way through thick native forest to Wanganui town and the sea. Much of its 290km is navigable; the river was an important transport link long before road and rail connections were engineered through the landscape. It therefore has a rich history and is steeped in Maori mystique. Learn all about it on a day trip to the Bridge To Nowhere with Wanganui River Adventures or travel down it in a canoe and experience what's said to be one of New Zealands Great Walks on water. Numerous companies operate trips out of Ohakune. Ask us for more info.