Our Hauraki Rail Trail 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. Remains of old gold mines can be seen in the Gorge; the town of Waihi has an open cast gold mine that still operates.

We will collect you in the morning and drive to Thames to commence cycling. If you wish you are welcome to cycle part way along the Firth of
Thames from Kaiaua, known for its migratory birds.  Ride from Thames to Paeroa, the home of the World famous L&P bottle, and on to Waihi, a historic
gold mining town, only 10 minutes from the beautiful Waihi Beach. Ride through the old rail tunnel (1100m) and pass old mining infrastructure such as the Victoria battery, the Blackpool Dam and Water Race and the Waihi-Waikino vintage railway.

After breakfast you have the opportunity to visit Waihi Beach, a 9km stretch of inviting sand and one of New Zealand’s safest surf beaches. Another attraction is the Athenree Saltmarsh Wetlands for a leisurely stroll, and take in the area’s rich history at the historic Athenree Homestead. After lunch we continue cycling on the rail trail. 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.

This morning we travel to Matamata for your tour of the Hobbiton Movie Set followed by lunch at Shire’s Café. After lunch 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 approximately 75 minutes return and is highly recommended. We will then return to Auckland.

Download our North Island brochure or any of our brochures from our bookcase. To see what bikes you can enjoy your fantastic Hauraki Rail Trail cycle tour, follow this link to our bike rental options. Bike Rentals