Tour 2 - The Gold Rush Tour
1-day self-guided cycling adventure
Embark on a picturesque journey along the Hauraki Rail Trail from Paeroa to Waihi, featuring the renowned Gold Discovery Centre.
Cruise along the Hauraki Rail Trail, starting from the historic town of Paeroa, known for its charming antique shops. Traverse the captivating Karangahake Gorge, nestled in the Kaimai Ranges, following the Ohinemuri River. The highlight of this trail is the mesmerising Owharoa Waterfall, offering breathtaking landscapes. Explore historic sites like the Karangahake mining areas and the iconic Victoria Battery, erected in 1897. Delve into the Windows Walk, leading you through old mining facilities in a side gorge. The pièce de résistance is the 1100-meter-long railway tunnel repurposed as a bike tunnel, guiding you through the gorge. Stop at Waikino Station for a delightful break at the Waikino Station Cafe, offering great food.
Upon reaching Waihi, dive into history at the Waihi Gold Discovery Center. A shuttle awaits at 4 pm to effortlessly return you to Paeroa. Take your time – there's no rush; the entire day is yours.
Duration: 6-7 hours (incl. walks/attractions), 24 km
Fitness level: Low to moderate (slight uphill towards Waihi) Trail Condition: Easy and straight Gravel Trail
Group Size: Min. 2 people
Check with us before booking, as the Gold Discovery Centre may not be open every day.
Recommendations:
Explore the Windows Walkway in the Karangahake Gorge for a 45-minute to 1-hour bush adventure, immersing yourself in the Gold-Mining history of the area. Make a quick stop at the Owharoa Falls to appreciate its natural beauty.
Included Services:
Bike hire incl. instructions
Helmet, Lock & Bike Bag Hire
Map and travel tips
Entry to the Gold Discovery Centre in Waihi (if open)
Shuttle from Waihi to Paeroa at 4 pm
Panniers included upon request
Price:
E-Bike: NZ$ 399 pp
Standard bikes: NZ$ 275 pp
Children up to 12 years NZ$ 259 pp
Optional: Full day tour guide, NZ$ 280 per group
*Get a 5% discount on your tour when you pay in full at least 2 months before the booking date.
Optional:
Pre- or post-tour accommodation is available at $200 per night when booked alongside your tour reservation.
Our tour pricing is based on a minimum of two people, with discounts available for larger groups. Additionally, JollyBikes ensures customer satisfaction with our price matching guarantee against comparable tours from competitors.
Rental Terms and Conditions
Minimum age for renting e-bikes is 18 years and experience with cycling, however children under 18 maybe able to use the e-bikes provided they meet the minimum rider size for the bike. Adult guidance is required for children under 18.
Half day: 4 hours in total, no reservations possible in advance (bike hire only).
Monday - Friday hires must be returned before 1:30pm. Saturdays hires must be returned before 1:30pm. Not possible on Sundays.
Optional accidental damage insurance: Standard bikes incur a fee of $10 per day, while e-bikes are subject to a $15 per day charge.
Surcharge for usage on mountain bike tracks: 50% of standard price (due to more intensive cleaning requirements and higher wear and tear).
One way hire (on request) only to Paeroa $100 per bike; any other location a relocation fee of $100 - $205 applies.
Discount for rentals: 4+ days: 15% off total price
Public holiday surcharge extra $30 per booking
Bike availability may vary.