Waka rides on the Whanganui River

Waka rides will be part of the scene on the Whanganui River this summer.

A new waka and canoe ride service launches from the traders market on Saturday.
As well as a stall, Ki Tai, the company behind the venture, will sell $10 rides in their 20-person waka.

"It was gifted from Grant Knuckey who had it in his paddock overgrown with grass," spokesman Ash Patea said.

The waka now has its relevant certifications and was named this week, Te Tai Kotoku.

In addition to the waka the company has 12 six-person canoes and 10 two-person canoes.
Waka rides will range from two or three hours for a trip from Aramoho to Putiki, or 21 days from Taumarunui to Aramoho.