Ongarue river is a riverside park at 2 Taupo Road, Ongarue, Ruapehu, rated 4.9 from 7 Google reviews. The directory gives no reviewer comments, facilities or access details, so check locally before you visit.
A good riverside park is judged on how easily people can reach the water, on shade and on whether the bank is safe to reach. River levels can rise quickly after rain, so check conditions before wading or swimming. Families often bring their own water and shade, since small rural parks may have few facilities. Regulars usually know the calmest spots for a paddle and where the banks are firmest underfoot.
For a river stop in Ongarue, this park is worth a look once you have checked conditions.