Drives Manawatū-Whanganui, New Zealand Taranaki and Whanganui
Whanganui River Road
Whanganui River Road · Upokongaro → Pipiriki
The drive
The Whanganui River Road follows the river from Upokongaro, just outside Whanganui, up to Pīpīriki. It is a narrow, winding road that climbs and drops above the water and passes small settlements strung out along the valley: Ātene, Koriniti, Rānana and Hiruhārama, better known as Jerusalem, where St Joseph's church and convent stand.
The road is sealed for its whole length of about 64 km. It is also the route of the Mountains to Sea cycle trail, so cyclists share it, and traffic is generally light but busier in summer. The surface is undulating and rough in places, and the drive involves a lot of climbing in short pitches.
Pīpīriki is the end of this drive. There is a small shop there, and not much else in the way of services on the road.
Along the way
- Upokongaro
- Pipiriki
Good to know
- The road is narrow and winding with few places to pass, and cyclists use it, especially in summer.
- Services are limited: Pīpīriki has a small shop, and the Matahiwi Gallery Café is the only refreshment stop on the road, so bring food and start with a full tank.
- Cellphone coverage is patchy along the river, so tell someone your plan.
- Check Whanganui District Council notices for roadworks before you go.
Open all year, weather permitting. Roads close for snow, fire, storms and repairs: before you set off, check Whanganui District Council: roading.
Questions about this drive
How long does the Whanganui River Road take to drive?
The Whanganui River Road from Upokongaro to Pīpīriki is 61 km (38 mi) and takes about 1 hr 25 min.
Is the Whanganui River Road sealed?
Yes. The Mountains to Sea trail notes describe the Whanganui River Road as fully sealed for its entire length, though narrow and rough in places.
Are there petrol stations on the Whanganui River Road?
The Mountains to Sea trail notes list only a small shop at Pīpīriki and one café at Matahiwi along the road, so fill the tank in Whanganui before you start.
What are the settlements on the Whanganui River Road?
Going upriver from Upokongaro the road passes Ātene, Koriniti, Rānana and Hiruhārama (Jerusalem) before reaching Pīpīriki.
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More drives near here
Distance, time, elevation, curves and intensity are from Carve's route. Checked 2026-10-28.