Image: Daniel Deans | DOC
Maharanui Campsite

Located in Whanganui National Park in the Manawatu/Whanganui region

This is a boat-in only campsite on the Whanganui Journey. There is no drive on access.

In this remote setting, you will be able to look and listen for kereru, tui and fantail, while brown kiwi can often be heard at night. The forest is a mix of rata, rewarewa, rimu, tawa and kowhai trees. 

Fees

In the Great Walks season (1 October – 30 April)

  • Adult (18 years and over): $19 per person, per night
  • Child (5 to 17 years): $9 per person, per night

Outside the Great Walks season (1 May  – 30 September)

  • Adult (18 years and over): $12 per person, per night
  • Child (5 to 17 years): $6 per person, per night

The DOC Campsite Pass cannot be used at this campsite. 

Bookings

Bookings are required if you want to stay between 1 October – 30 April as part of the Whanganui Journey. Use the online booking system.

Book Maharanui Campsite online.

You can only access this campsite from the Whanganui River.

Tracks to this campsite

Location

The campsite is situated 53 km downstream from Taumarunui.

NZTM2000 coordinates: E1777014, N5673312
Latitude: -39.07357433, Longitude: 175.04466018

  • Boil, filter or treat water – water from tap is not treated.
  • No cellphone coverage on the Whanganui River.
  • Wasps are a known hazard and are particularly common from January until May. Carry antihistamines if you’re allergic to their stings.

Maximum 2 consecutive nights stay for Whanganui Journey river trip campers. You won’t be charged for staying an extra night at a campsite or hut due to high river levels – don’t canoe the river when water levels are predicted to rise or flooded.

Check safety information about Whanganui Journey.