Visit spectacular Waihi Beach on day 2

Hauraki Rail Trail Pedal

Duration
4 days
Site savings
$15
From
$1,427 USD

Enjoy a relaxed four-day ride along the Hauraki Rail Trail, a scenic cycling route through New Zealand’s beautiful dairy-farming country. From Thames to Waihi, cycle through the spectacular Karangahake Gorge, passing historic gold-mining remains and riding through a 1.1 km railway tunnel. Starting in Auckland, the adventure also includes a visit to the famous Hobbiton Movie Set, combining stunning scenery, pioneering history and a touch of Middle-earth.

  • Category
    Easy-going & Leisurely
  • Type
    Fully Guided
  • Duration
    4 days
  • Culture Level
    Familiar
  • Skill Level
    1 - Beginner
  • Activity Level
    2 - Moderate
  • Elevation
    1 - Easy
  • Terrain
    Agricultural
  • Distance
    55.9 miles
  • Avg. Daily Distance
    18.6 miles
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Quick Stats

  • Duration
    4 days
  • Main Destination
    North Island
  • Distance
    55.9 miles
  • Avg. Daily Distance
    18.6 miles
  • Elevation
    1 - Easy
  • Terrain
    Agricultural

Route Map (click to view larger image)

Itinerary Details

  1. Day 1Auckland to Waihi

    This morning, you’ll be picked up from your hotel in Auckland and driven to Thames, where your cycling adventure begins. If you wish, you can start your ride earlier at Kaiaua and cycle part of the scenic Firth of Thames, a popular stop for migratory birds. From Thames, follow the trail to Paeroa, home of the world-famous L&P bottle, before continuing to Waihi, a historic gold-mining town just 10 minutes from beautiful Waihi Beach. Along the way, ride through the impressive 1.1 km (3,608 ft) old railway tunnel and pass fascinating remnants of the region’s mining heritage, including the Victoria Battery, Blackpool Dam and Water Race, and the Waihi-Waikino vintage railway.

    • 15.5 miles
    • Accommodation in Waihi
  2. Day 2Waihi to Te Aroha

    After breakfast, take some time to visit Waihi Beach, a beautiful 9 km stretch of golden sand and one of New Zealand’s safest surf beaches. Then, retrace your route through the spectacular Karangahake Gorge to Paeroa before continuing on to Te Aroha. This charming town is home to the historic Te Aroha Mineral Spas and Leisure Pools, offering the perfect opportunity to relax and unwind after your ride.

    Waihi to Paeroa 25 km / 15.5 mi
    Paeroa to Te Aroha 36 km/ 22 mi

    • 15.5 miles
    • Accommodation in Te Aroha
  3. Day 3Te Aroha to Matamata

    Today, continue cycling from Te Aroha to Matamata along a newly opened section of the Hauraki Rail Trail. The route is mostly flat to gently undulating, with beautiful views beneath the Kaimai Ranges. In the afternoon, choose how you’d like to experience the area: enjoy another scenic cycle ride or take a bush walk to the impressive Wairere Falls. The walk to the base of the falls takes around 75 minutes return and is highly recommended for its beautiful forest setting and waterfall views.

    • 24.9 miles
  4. Day 4Auckland

    This morning after breakfast, you will travel to the Hobbiton Movie Set followed by lunch at Shire’s Cafe. After lunch, you will return to Auckland with a drive that will take about 3 hours.

    • Breakfast and Lunch