Whakahoro: A Remote Retreat on the Whanganui River
Whakahoro is a secluded destination at the confluence of the Retaruke and Whanganui Rivers, on the edge of Whanganui National Park. It marks the boundary of Whanganui National Park and Blue Duck Station. This area is a key stop on the multi-day Whanganui Journey canoe trip and the Mountain to Sea Cycle Trail. The Whanganui Journey is designated by DOC as a Great Walk.
Exploring Whakahoro's Natural Beauty
Upon arriving in Whakahoro, you'll find the Blue Duck Station facilities on your left and the access road to the DOC campground and Retaruke River on your right. The station is known for its quirky charm, featuring dilapidated old trucks near the car park. If open, the café here is worth a visit, being one of the most remote in New Zealand.
A short walk will take you down to the Retaruke River, where you might spot whio, the rare native blue ducks. A bridge leads to a small jetty at the meeting point of the Whanganui and Retaruke Rivers, an ideal spot for a refreshing swim.
Hiking Adventures in Whakahoro
For those seeking longer hikes, the Kaiwhakauka Track is a one-hour walk to an even more remote part of the region, culminating at a waterfall. From this track, you can also access the Paraitua Trek, which involves a steep uphill climb on Blue Duck Station.
How to Get to Whakahoro
To reach Whakahoro, take the turn-off from State Highway 4 onto Oio Road, just south of Ōwhango. Although the distance is only 44 km, the road turns to gravel about 2/3 of the way, and it becomes winding and rough in places with spectacular views of the gorge carved out by the Rurareke River. From Owhango, the drive takes 1 hour. From Auckland, it is 4.5 hours and 346 km; from Wellington, it is 5 hours and 385 km.
Other places to explore in the wider region include Ohinetonga Reserve near Owhango, Taumarunui and the Forgotten World Highway to the north, and Tongariro National Park to the south.
