[1] The river runs northeast through Lake Sumner Forest Park then south until it turns east along a large valley formed by the Hope Fault, a significant tectonic fault line.

[2] It is joined by a major tributary, the Boyle River which flows south from the Lewis Pass some 12 kilometres (7.5 mi) above its confluence with the Waiau Uwha.

The Waiau Uwha enters from a side valley and continues eastward along the Hope Fault's valley before turning south through a gorge near Hanmer Springs.

A walking track follows the river and there are several huts managed by the Department of Conservation.

Media related to Hope River (Canterbury) at Wikimedia Commons