Hauraki Rail Trail

About

The Hauraki Rail Trail is the easiest riding Trail in New Zealand, with various stages. The trail is in close proximity to Hamilton, Auckland and Tauranga and is accessible from Thames, Paeroa, Te Aroha, Waihi/Waikino, Matamata and the coastal town of Kaiaua.

Following old railway lines between historic goldmining towns Waihi, Paeroa, Te Aroha, Thames and on to the coastal town of Kaiaua, the grade one Trail is one of New Zealand’s easiest Great Rides. Suitable for everyone from kids barely out of trainer wheels, to those who’ve been pedaling since the days of Penny Farthings. From the stunning Karangahake Gorge, verdant farmlands and the salt licked Shorebird Coast, this Trail gives cyclists plenty of reasons to stop and get off their bikes along the way. The five leg 197km ride can be completed in a leisurely four to five days, beginning in any of the district’s five main towns, where accommodation, advice, bike hire, and shuttle transport are available.