This trip is designed for the casual cyclist; it is a scenic off-road cycle trail on a disused railway line. From Thames to Waihi the path cuts through the heart of New Zealand’s dairy farm region and passes through the spectacular Karangahake Gorge with a 1.1 km section of tunnel. Remains of old gold mines can be seen in the Gorge; the town of Waihi has an open cast gold mine that still operates.
This tour will run with a minimum of four cyclists.
DAY 1 WAIHI
We will meet you at your Auckland hotel and drive to Thames to commence cycling. Ride from Thames to Waihi, a historic gold mining town, only 10 minutes from the beautiful Waihi Beach.
DAY 2 Te Aroha
We retrace our steps through the gorge to Paeroa then on to Te Aroha, home to the luxurious, historic Te Aroha Mineral Spas and the Te Aroha Leisure Pools.
DAY 3 Matamata
We continue cycling from Te Aroha on a newly opened section of the Hauraki Rail Trail to Matamata. In the afternoon, we have the option of a cycle ride on terrain that is flat to gently undulating beneath the Kaimai Ranges or a bush walk to Wairere falls (the walk to the base of the falls takes approx. 75minutes return and is highly recommended.
DAY 4 Auckland
After breakfast, we travel to the Hobbiton Movie Set followed by lunch at Shire’s Cafe. After lunch, we return to Auckland. About 3 hrs drive.
What’s included
3 nights accommodation (mostly 3 and 4 star)
3 breakfasts, 3 lunches & 2 dinners
Full minibus support
Experienced guide/ cycle mechanic
Pedaltours souvenir cycle jersey
Daily route directions and coloured maps with profiles
Fully guided Hobbiton™ Movie Set tour
Excellent, well-maintained bikes with pannier/carry bags included (e-bikes available)
