WHANGANUI RIVER ROAD
The road from Whanganui to Pipiriki snakes through gorgeous scenery as it closely follows the flow of the Whanganui River. There are only a scattering of settlements en route with no shops or petrol stations so it is advisable to stock up before you start the journey.
From Whanganui, the first settlement you’ll come across is the village of Upokongaro, with it’s pretty St Mary’s Church, built in 1877 – the oldest church in the Whanganui District on its original site. Just north of Upokongaro, off State Highway 4, is the start of the Whanganui River Road.
A short distance up the road is the Aramoana Viewpoint, with incredible views of the river as it cuts through the Wanganui Valley.
Just past the settlement of Atene is the Atene Skyline Track, a 2-hour return walk to a viewpoint with splendid vistas across the valleys.
Along the route a number of operators offer jet boat adventures and scenic river experiences on the Whanganui River, and further north, at Koriniti guests can take a stroll around the pretty Koriniti Marae (+64-6-342 8198) and Church. It is polite to ring up and be invited to enter the marae instead of simply turning up. Shortly after the settlement of Matahiwi is the historic Kawana Flour Mill, the only surviving mill of its kind, dating back to the 1850’s. It is an excellent example of 19th century industrial technology, and a photographic display tells of the history of the site. The mill and its waterwheel have been beautifully restored and is worth a quick visit. The small two-roomed Miller’s Cottage next to the mill dates from the same period. Both the mill and cottage are open daily and is free to visit, but donations are appreciated.
About 12km/7.5miles north of Matahiwi is one of the most picturesque villages along this road. The small, quiet settlement of Jerusalem/Hiruhārama is a peaceful haven. Situated 64km/40miles from Whanganui in a remote location on the banks of the Whanganui River, Jerusalem seems almost cut off from civilization. Once there, you are surrounded by absolute tranquility. The small village is most famous for the charity work that was done here by Mother Mary Aubert, known as the Sisters of Compassion, at the pretty St Joseph’s Church. The historic convent from 1892 still remains, and now offers affordable accommodation (+64-6-342 8190) in open dormitories ($$). However, the closest shops and petrol stations are in Whanganui and Raetihi (40km/25miles north east).
A further 12km/7.5km north of Jerusalem, you finally reach Pipiriki – gateway to the stunning Whanganui National Park. This small settlement on the banks of the river used to be a major stop during the riverboat era of the late 19th to early 20th century. These days it is the main access point for trips to Bridge to Nowhere. Although Pipiriki is small, it has accommodation and a camping ground ($).
