Whanganui Journey Gear List
The Whanganui Journey is a canoe or kayak trip, so the kit starts with a life jacket, a distress beacon and dry storage. DOC says water at huts is not treated, there is no phone reception on the river, and open fires are not permitted.
On the river
Life jacket
DOC says to always wear one.
Distress beacon
DOC says to carry one so you can signal for help.
Spare paddle and dry storage
A spare paddle, plus plastic drums or barrels and dry bags for food, clothes and gear.
Be visible
DOC recommends bright clothing so boats can see you.
Footwear
Sandals or aqua shoes plus walking shoes. DOC says denim, cotton and hiking boots are not suitable.
Huts and campsites
Water
Not treated. Bring a way to boil or treat it.
Winter huts
DOC says gas cookers are not provided in winter, so bring a stove.
Fire
Huts are not stocked with firewood and open fires are not permitted.
Toilet paper
Not provided at huts or campsites.
No phone
DOC says there is no phone reception on the river.
Gear questions for the Whanganui Journey
Do you need a distress beacon on the Whanganui Journey?
DOC says to carry a distress beacon so you can signal for help.
Can you light a fire on the Whanganui Journey?
No. DOC says open fires are not permitted and huts are not stocked with firewood.
Sources
Checked against the agency page above on 30 October 2026. This page names no products, and it lists what the agency says, in our words. Check the agency page for rules that changed since.
In an emergency in New Zealand, call 111.