Directions

The Pororari River can be easily accessed near the bridge which is one kilometre north of the Paparoa National Park Visitors Centre in Punakaiki on State Highway 6. There is parking beside the bridge.

Canoeing Pororari River

Sit back and paddle your way from beach lagoon and into one of the most scenic parts of Paparoa National Park.

Become immersed in the scenery as you pass from the rugged coastline and into the karst landscape. Watch lush nikau palm groves go past and look up at the dramatic limestone cliffs surrounded by rainforest. This trip is great for children and beginners to more advanced kayakers. Families will love it.

Canoeing up the Pororari River gives you the opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the stunning surroundings of the Paparoa National Park, from the sea to the limestone canyons.

Start at the Pororari River Bridge and choose whether to head downstream and paddle in the lagoon or straight into the limestone gorge upstream.

Paddling downstream will take you past lush nikau palms on your way to the lagoon. Spend a while in the lagoon breathing in the sea air and watching the waves crash on to the beach. Look up and down the rugged coastline - you may be lucky and see a little blue penguin on the beach.

Paddling upstream from the Pororari River Bridge will take you into the dramatic limestone canyon. Lean back and look up at the cliff walls towering above you. During summer time the rata is in flower and these red blooms add spectacular colour which really stands out amongst all the lush green rainforest. The canyon is alive with the sounds of birds calling. Paparoa National Park supports one of the highest concentrations of native birds in New Zealand.

Make sure to watch out for the huge rocks in the river that the water has beautifully sculptured over hundreds of years. Paddle over and see how the water has carved the rocks into fantastic shapes. On a still day the rocks are reflected in the water bringing a whole new dimension to the carvings.

If you are feeling adventurous you can explore further up the Porari River to the lower reaches of Cave Creek.

The Pororari River Track runs along side the river. This track was originally called the Razorback Road and was created in 1867 in response to the opening up of the goldfields in the area.

Canoes can be hired from Punakaiki Canoes (beside the bridge) a locally owned and operated company. You can hire a kayak and they also do guided trips. Punakaiki Canoes have a range of kayaks to suit different needs, including double kayaks. They also provide lifejackets, wetsuits, booties and water proof containers for cameras or lunch.

When water levels are high the river is not suitable for canoeing. If you are unsure at all contact the Paparoa National Park Visitors Centre and i-site to check about the river levels.

Make sure you stop and see the Pancake Rocks while you are here. These are one kilometer north of the Pororari River bridge and should not be missed.