5-Day Bike Tour

Hauraki Rail Trail

Join us on an awesome 5-day adventure taking on one of New Zealand's iconic cycle trails. Experience the Firth of Thames, Waikato's historic mining towns and lush farmland.

5-Day Trail: Cambridge/Matamata - Kaiaua - Thames – Paeroa – Karangahake Gorge – Te Aroha – Matamata/ Cambridge

Duration

5 Days/4 Nights

Ages

8+

Tour Price

From $1399 per person
(Min 2ppl)

Activity Grade

Beginner

Join us on an awesome 5-Day adventure taking on one of New Zealand’s iconic cycle trails!

See for yourself the Firth of Thames, Waikato's historic mining towns and lush farmland.

This package is well suited to those wanting to get off the beaten track and includes accommodation, meals, bike hire, shuttles, transfers, and our signature Twilight Glow Worm Kayak Tour.

This cycle adventure is suitable for all riders from beginners to those with moderate fitness.

Contact us to Book Now!

Pre Tour/ Day 1 - Kaiaua to Thames

(55km / 4-6 hours)

Pre-tour accommodation can included in either Matamata or Cambridge.

Take the opportunity to explore the Waikato from the world famous Hamilton gardens, a thrilling jetboat ride with Camjet Tours or explore the ever popular Hobbiton Movie set and Tours the day before your bike tour.

Catch your shuttle from your accommodation or meet us for a shuttle up to Kaiaua. Day One on the Hauraki Rail Trail is all about soaking up the peaceful rural vibes while you pedal through the gorgeous countryside. If you’re keen, swing by the Pūkorokoro–Miranda Shorebird Centre to learn about the precious local birdlife and maybe stroll over to the bird hides for a better look. You’ll also come across the historic Kopu Bridge and the Waihou River—perfect for a scenic break or a quick snap of local history. It’s your day, your pace—enjoy every moment!

www.haurakirailtrail.co.nz:

7 Day adventure Bike Trail | Riverside Adventures Waikato

Day 2 - Thames to Paeroa

(34km / 3-4 hours)

Your 4-days of biking adventure starts with a pickup from Matamata or Cambridge ( depending on your choice of pre-tour accommodation) where you will be taken to Thames where ahead of you is the 34km stage from Thames to Paeroa. Along the way the Matatoki Cheese Barn is a highlight, as is the Historical Maritime Park (once New Zealand’s most inland port).

Enjoy a light lunch on us with a cheese platter.

Paeroa is home to the iconic Kiwi softdrink ‘L&P’ as well as many antiques and collectables shops. Enjoy a 2-night stay at the comfortable Pedlars Motel next to the Ohinemuri River.

Day 3 - Paeroa to Waihi (return to Paeroa)

(24 km / 3-4 hours or 6-8hours return)

The hero day on the Hauraki Rail Trail with plenty of extra activities to keep you busy.

The 24km trail follows the incredible Karangahake Gorge including the cascading Owharoa waterfall, photogenic gold mining sites, the Victoria Battery museum, and the infamous Windows Walkway which is a real must-do. Another absolute highlight is riding through an amazing 1100-metre long railway tunnel.

Enjoy a fantastic overnight stay for a second night at Paeroa (or there is the option to overnight in Waihi at Trailblazers Motel)

Day 4 - Waihi to Te Aroha

Waihi to Te Aroha (47km / 5-6 hours)

Ride back through the stunning, Karangahake Gorge to take in those extra sights you may have missed the day before before making your way from Paeroa to Te Aroha following the Kaimai ranges.

Paeroa to Te Aroha (23km / 2-3 hours)

If you have decided to stay two nights in Paeroa you will enjoy an easy 23km journey down to the quaint town of Te Aroha nestled at the foot of the Kaimai Range. The town is famous for its Victorian-era mineral spas, renowned for their healing properties since the 1800s.

There are some excellent walking tracks nearby, and the helpful staff at the local i-Site are happy to give you a few pointers. Accommodation is at the centrally located Te Aroha Motel.

Its time to relax and soak your muscles with a 45min spa for 2 at Te Awa Mineral Spa

Waihi to Te Aroha trail section with Riverside adventures

Hauraki Rail Trail through Te Aroha to Matamata

Day 5 - Te Aroha to Matamata

(37km / 3-4 hours)

The final day on the Hauraki Rail Trail, a gentle 37km section which passes through fertile plains, significant horse studs, goat farms, groves of scented trees, the scenic Wairere Falls, Stanley Landing and the Firth Tower before reaching the finish line in Matamata.

Congratulations are in order – you have just completed an epic journey of almost 200kms!

Our shuttle can meet you in Matamata where you can either head back to where you started or spend a night relaxing locally in either Matamata or Cambridge. If you've still got the energy why not include our spectacular Twilight Glowworm Kayak Tour with Riverside Adventures.