Adventuring has become incredibly easy with smart phones, the internet, google maps, and APPs. We can research travel options, book cheap flights and accommodation for the first few nights, and everything else can be taken care of once we arrive.
New Zealand is a great destination for an active cycling or mountain biking break, with accessible riding trails and tracks near most cities and towns. You’re guaranteed a cycling holiday to remember, with beautiful landscapes found around each bend.
Diverse trails range from super easy to hardcore and epic, offering rides for all abilities, interests and itineraries. All trails make the most of the spectacular coastline or countryside, yet are seldom far from towns.
A seemingly endless network of forest trails, abandoned railways, farm tracks and other backcountry routes usher riders through an array of stunning backdrops. Cyclists can make interesting detours to enjoy walking, arts, culture, local hospitality and a wealth of attractions.
Biking provides an unrivalled travel experience. Mostly off-road, the Hauraki Rail Trail traverses a remarkable range of landscapes. From pristine coastlines and green pastures to misty rainforests, you’ll discover places four-wheeled travellers never knew existed.
The 197km trail showcases some of the region's best scenery, and as a Grade One (easiest) trail, it’s suitable for all fitness levels and cycling abilities. Although the Trail can be enjoyed as manageable day sections, this versatile trail lends itself to multi-day adventures.
With multiple access points from Kaiaua, Thames, Paeroa, Waihi, Te Aroha, Waikino and the Karangahake Gorge, all options are within a two-hour drive from Auckland, Hamilton and Tauranga. The Coromandel’s temperate climate also means the Trail can be ridden all year round.
If you want to focus on riding with someone else taking care of the logistics, a guided cycle tour might be for you. Supported tours have the advantage of providing planning, support, transport, and local knowledge of the Trail and region.
Expert guidance enriches your experience, so you can relax and make the most of your adventure. If you’d like to enjoy New Zealand's famous scenery, culture, food and wine here’s an example itinerary to help you plan.
Long and Laid-Back
4 Day (Cruising) - 160 -184 km, Grade 1 Easiest, All skill and fitness levels
This 4-day ride enables riders to cruise at a leisurely pace, enjoying additional attractions and activities the area has to offer. At the end of the ride take a shuttle back to your start point.
Day 1 - Kaiaua to Thames (55kms)
Ride along stop banks beside the Firth of Thames taking in the Kaiaua Shore Birds, lush farmlands and wetlands with magnificent views of the Coromandel Ranges.
Day 2 - Thames to Paeroa (34kms)
Refuel at cafés along the way and peruse the antique shops of Paeroa.
Day 3 - Paeroa to Waihi (24kms)
Explore the majestic Karangahake Gorge, cool off with a swim at Owharoa Falls. Gold mining Tours are available at Waihi.
Day 4 - Waihi to Te Aroha (47kms)
Hop on the Train from Waihi back to Waikino, and enjoy the downhill ride through the Karangahake Gorge back to Paeroa. Finish your ride with a soak at the Te Aroha Mineral Spa.
The Hauraki Rail Trail showcases the best of New Zealand’s landscape, environment, culture and heritage. No matter how fast or far you want to ride, if you’re ready for an adventure there’s a great option for every rider.
You can view and download the Trail Map here, or find more information on the official Hauraki Rail Trail website. Content in this blog was supplied by The Hauraki Rail Trail Trust.
