Canoe Safaris Lodge

I learned a lot and felt challenged, and finishing the four days left me with a huge sense of achievement. The Whanganui river was a beautiful setting, and we had a fabulous group. Zoe and Matt were excellent, experienced guides. They taught us to paddle and steer, encouraged us when we needed it, and gave clear directions for each rapid. The food they cooked was plentiful and very good. The tents were easy to put up, and the inflatable sleeping mats were very comfortable. Ten stars!

Jake and Elyse made our five-day Whanganui River trip with Canoe Safaris unforgettable. Their energy, kindness and professionalism stood out, and their local history knowledge gave the river so much more meaning. They coached paddling brilliantly, with clear, patient guidance for beginners and more experienced people alike. The trip was beautifully organized from start to finish. Jake and Elyse kept things running smoothly and cooked hearty, delicious meals each day, just what we needed after hours on the river. Even during heavy downpours, they stayed completely unfazed. Seeing them carry heavy supplies up slippery river banks so calmly gave us real confidence in their leadership. This was our 2025 New Year's Eve adventure, and I can’t recommend Canoe Safaris enough. Jake and Elyse are two of the best young humans you could hope to meet.

The five days were thoroughly enjoyable, and dietary needs were handled with impressive ease. There were delicious alternatives at every meal, including yummy desserts. Matty and Gregor were amazing guides. They went above and beyond to keep people of all ages and abilities happy and comfortable. Their positive, fun energy came with plenty of useful information and real skill on the water, which helped us feel safe. Camp life was a blast too, with delicious food they cooked and stories to entertain us. Everything had been thought through to make this an incredible canoe experience.

The Whanganui river is beautiful, with stunning native bush and a morning chorus. Our co-paddlers were a lovely bunch, and there was plenty of fun and shenanigans on the river and at camp. Phil and Kirsty handled the logistics and organization of our four-day guided trip really well. Our guides, Gregor and Zoe, were outstanding. They knew who needed a gentle approach and who to nudge outside their comfort zone. They cooked meal after meal, all delicious and far better than typical camping food. Highly recommend.