About Whanganui River Adventures

Nau mai, haere mai. Welcome to Whanganui River Adventures.

Whanganui River Adventures is a locally owned Māori tourism business based in Pipiriki, proudly operated by Ken and Josephine Haworth, descendants of the Whanganui River (tangata whenua).

Born and raised in the heart of the river valley, Ken and Josephine have spent their lives immersed in the history, traditions, and stories of the Whanganui Awa. These stories have been passed down through generations of their whānau, giving guests an authentic connection to the people, culture, and spirit of the river.

With decades of jet boating experience, combined with a deep love and respect for the Whanganui Awa, they take pride in delivering a truly personal and authentic experience that cannot be replicated.

Josephine represents the third generation of her family involved in jet boating on the Whanganui River, continuing a family legacy spanning more than 50 years. Ken's family began operating jet boat tours in the 1970s, and he started driving professionally in 1985 alongside his parents, Ken and Raewyn Haworth, in the family business, Pipiriki Jet Boat Tours.

Over the years, Ken and Josephine have continued to build on that legacy. They operated the family business until 1998, re-established Pipiriki Jet Boat Tours in 2002, and in 2003 acquired Riverspirit Jet Boat Tours, combining the two businesses. Today, they proudly continue that journey as the owners and operators of Whanganui River Adventures, offering visitors an unforgettable experience guided by generations of knowledge, history, and passion for the Whanganui River.