Embark on a 3.5 hour adventure that captures the essence of traditional river travel. Departing at 11 am and returning at 2.30 pm, you’ll enjoy captivating commentary, breathtaking scenery from the heart of Whanganui.
Your journey begins at the Riverboat Centre Wharf and takes you upriver, offering unique views of Whanganui only visible from Te Awa Tupua - Whanganui River.
Our onboard commentary will enrich your experience with riverboat history and fascinating points of interest. Don’t miss the chance to see the boiler that powers our paddle steamer. You might even meet our homing pigeons and send a message with them back to the Riverboat Centre. Our friendly team is always available to answer any questions you may have.
Upon reaching Ūpokongaro, you can:
- Stop by Behind The Door On 4 café and spot the elusive Nankeen Night Herons.
- Enjoy delicious offerings from a local food cart.
- Visit Papaiti Gin to learn about the unique stories behind their flavors.
- Explore St Mary’s Church, a historic landmark built in 1877, and admire its distinctive three-sided spire.
Join us for a memorable journey through history and nature on the Whanganui River.
Duration
- 3.5 Hours.
- 1.5 hour stop over at Ūpokongaro
- Available Sundays December - March and Fridays in January.
- Boarding is at 10.30am. All guests to report to our ticket office to receive your boarding pass before 10.30am
- Departs from the Riverboat Centre Wharf at 11am
- Departs from Ūpokongaro at 1.30pm
Prices
- Adult: $62.00
- Adult - Local (Must live in Whanganui): $57.00
- Child (5-15 years, under 5 free): $28.00
- Seniors (Age 65+): $57.00
- Infants (Ages 4 & under): Free
- Family Pass (2 Adults + 2 Children (Ages 5-15): $149.00
- When booking Family Passes please select 1 for 1 Family Pass which is 2 Adults & 2 Children, add additional adults, children, infants & seniors from the other booking options.
Tram Ride - Available Sundays only as an add on to either the 2-hour cruise or Upokongaro Stop over - See Additional Information below
- Adult: $5.00
- Children & infants: Free
Inclusion
- 2 hour cruise on the Paddle Steamer Waimarie
- 1.5 hour stop over at Ūpokongaro
- On board commentary
- Wonderful views
- Meet the homing pigeons and perhaps send a message back with them on their flight to the Riverboat Centre
- The nostalgic sound of the steam whistle, the boiler powering the paddles, and the paddles making way their way through the water
- View our Riverboat Museum before or after your cruise at no addition cost
Additional information
- Suitable for all ages
- There is a short uphill walk from the wharf which some passengers may find challenging
- Sturdy footwear is suggested
- Wet weather gear if its raining
- Licenced bar on board. Snacks, hot and cold beverages available for purchase
- Eftpos available
- Wheel chairs up to 680mm wide can access the vessel but please contact us before making your booking
