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Wanganui / Lower Wanganui, III (IV+)

Wed, 2006-05-17 21:59 — jonathan
0
Wanganui
Info
Portage?: 
No
Class: 
III (IV+)
Level: 
30-80 cumecs
Gauge: 
visual at the take out
Length: 
7km
Gradient: 
9.5m/km
Time: 
2-4 hours
Put in: 
Hunter Hut (Wanganui/Lambers Confluence)
Take out: 
Gravel road end 3km up from SH6 (right hand side)
Shuttle: 
helicopter section 7B or 7C
Maps: 
I34 and J34
Character: 
Moderate water
Hot tip: 
Great for a first fly in.

The character of the Wanganui is different from other West Coast rivers, dropping sharply out of the Alps, but easing off without flowing through any gorges.

From just above the Lambert/Wanganui junction is a great class III intermediate trip and an excellent proposition for a first helicopter trip. The gradient drops right off to 9.5m/km and enjoyable class III water, except for one class IV-V rapid. This rapid (Slip Rapid) is about 4 kilometres from the Lambert/Wanganui junction and is easy to spot from above. Run the rapid or portage on the right side.

A soak in the hot pools in Hot Spring Stream (on the left 2 kilometres before the take out) is a great way to finish the trip. Walk 100 metres up the stream on the true left and dig out a pool to sit in. The quarry site on river right indicates the take out.

To get to the take out: from Hokitika drive south for 45 - 60minutes. A road heads off to the left just as you are about to cross the Wanganui River. Follow this for about 3 kilometres. As you get to the river there is a good parking and helicopter landing spot.

Fill: 
89%
NZ Whitewater 4th Edition 2006: 
p201
Credits: 
Graham Charles

This section appears in New Zealand Whitewater, 4th edition, 2006 on p201.

New Zealand Whitewater, 4th edition, 2006
No incidents reported.

Disclaimer

Canoeing and kayaking are activities with inherent risks. Whitewater NZ takes no responsibility for the accuracy of this guide, nor for any risks or dangers that canoeists or kayakers may encounter. Any users should fully research the current river conditions and ensure they are fully equipped and have the appropriate skills, before embarking on any river trip, per Whitewater NZ Code of Practice. While every effort is made to ensure that details are correct, it is possible that this information is no longer accurate. If you find discrepancies or errors, please let us know at guide@rivers.org.nz.