Tour 4 - The Great Hauraki Rail Trail Tour
4 day Self-guided Complete Hauraki Rail Trail
Experience the highlights of the Hauraki Rail Trail
Day 1
Begin your journey at JollyBikes, where our friendly team will help get you set up for the adventure ahead. From Thames, enjoy a stunning 55 km ride to the small coastal town of Kaiaua. Start your journey with the arts trail between Thames and Kopu before crossing the Kopu Bridge over the beautiful Waihou River. We recommend stopping at The Bugger Cafe a popular stop for our cyclists or continue on to the rural township of Waitakaruru, where you’ll find a small local bakery, which offers coffee, pies, sandwiches and other delicious treats. As the landscape opens up, the route follows the edge of the stunning Firth of Thames wetlands, an area famous for its native wildlife and migratory shorebirds. Take time to visit the Pūkorokoro Miranda Shorebird Centre, where they offer guided tours (Times and spaces limited) . Finish your ride in Kaiaua, a relaxed seaside village well known for its fresh fish and chips, the perfect way to celebrate the day’s journey. After some time to unwind by the coast, you’ll be collected from Kaiaua and transported back to Thames.
Day 2
Start again in Thames towards Paeroa, through lush farmland, crossing many wooden bridges and passing farm animals. This historic area was once only accessible via the two rivers that run through, The Waihou and the Hikutaia River. The Rail trail follows the old railway out of Thames and through the Hauraki plains country, with views of the Kaimai Ranges. Have morning tea at the Matatoki Cheese Barn(Closed Mondays) and then ride on to the "Antique Town" of Paeroa. You will have time to browse the many antiques shops of Paeroa. This was also where the ‘World Famous in New Zealand’ L&P drink was founded, a kiwi icon, and not only the people of Paeroa still rever and enjoy it. This night and the next night's accommodation will be in Paeroa.
Day 3
The most popular section of the Rail Trail winds through the spectacular Karangahake Gorge, following the beautiful Ohinemuri River as it cuts through a dramatic canyon in the Kaimai Ranges. Along the way, riders are treated to stunning scenery, including the picturesque Owharoa Falls. One of the trail’s most memorable experiences is the 1km tunnel, now repurposed as a cycling tunnel. Nearby, riders also have the option to explore the fabulous Windows Walk, where a series of short mining tunnels and pathways carved into the cliffs provide spectacular views deep into the gorge and a fascinating glimpse into the area’s gold mining history. Continuing on, the trail leads to Waikino, home to the charming Waikino Station Cafe, the perfect place to relax and enjoy a meal before riding on to Waihi. Once in Waihi, you can further immerse yourself in the area’s fascinating gold mining heritage with a visit to the Waihi Gold Discovery Centre. After your day’s adventure, return to your accommodation in Paeroa for another evening’s stay.
Day 4
Begin your day’s journey from Paeroa, travelling through lush countryside with the breathtaking Kaimai Range as your backdrop. As you approach the peaceful spa town of Te Aroha, take in the stunning views of Mount Te Aroha. Arriving with plenty of time to explore the beautiful Te Aroha Domain, you’ll discover the famous Mokena Geyser and enjoy a visit to the charming The Cottage Cafe. You may also wish to relax with a soothing soak in a private spa, also located within the domain. Following your day’s adventure you'll be transported back to Thames.
Duration including lunch stop:
Day 1: 6-7 hours, 55 km
Day 2: 4-5 hours, 34 km
Day 3: 6-7 hours (incl. walks/attractions), 48 km
Day 4: 6-7 hours, 23 km
Fitness level: Moderate (long hours in the saddle)
Trail Condition: Easy straight Gravel Trail
Group size: Min. 2 people
Recommendations:
Check out the bird-hides in Miranda. If you get lucky you might be in for a free guided bird walk. Have a short stop at the Kopu bridge to have a look back at Thames to get a great view. While in Paeroa, Visit the L&P Cafe and the giant L&P Bottle for a photo. Check out the Windows Walkway which is in the Karangahake Gorge to enjoy the bush and to see the Gold-Mining history in the area. (Approx, 45 Minutes - 1 hour). Also have a quick stop at the Owharoa Falls to take in the beauty of the falls. If you start early on day 4, you could reach Te Aroha around lunch time. You could take a short walk up to the Whakapipi Lookout (45 minutes one way, on the Mt Te Aroha Summit Track) to have an amazing view over the Waikato. Alternatively you can relax in a mineral spa pool (bookings essential) or walk one of the many other walk tracks around town.
Included Services:
Bike hire 4 days incl. instructions
Helmet, Lock & Bike Bag Hire
Map and travel tips
Overnight accommodation in Thames (Double/Shared twin room)
Two nights' accommodation in Paeroa (Double/Shared twin room)
Luggage Transfers
Shuttle from Thames to Miranda/Kaiaua on day 1
Shuttle from Te Aroha to Thames at 4pm on day 4
Panniers are included on request
Price:
E-Bike: NZ$ 1,729 p.p
Standard Bike: NZ$ 1,445 p.p
Child's Standard Bike up to 12 years NZ$ 995 p.p
Child's E-Bike up to 12 years NZ$ 1,195 p.p
Full Suspension E-Bike NZ$ 2,329 p.p
Using own bike NZ$ 1,245 p.p
Get a 5% discount on your tour when you pay in full at least 2 months before the booking date.
Optional:
Price with tour guide on request
Pre- or post-tour accommodation in Thames from NZ$130 per night p.p. when booked alongside your tour reservation
Mineral Spa Pools Te Aroha from NZ$55 p.p.
Our tour pricing is based on a minimum of two people, with discounts available for larger groups.
Rental Terms and Conditions
Minimum age for renting e-bikes is 18 years old. However children under 18 may be able to use the e-bikes under parental supervision. Please contact us in advance to discuss.
Half day - 4 hours bike rental.
Monday - Friday hires must be returned no later than 4:30 pm. Saturdays hires must be returned no later than 1:30 pm. Sundays hire by negotiation in prior to the day.
Optional accidental damage insurance: Standard bikes incur a fee of $10 per day, while e-bikes are subject to a $20 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 - available on request in advance at an additional cost.
Discount for rentals: 5+ days: 15% off total price
Public holiday surcharge extra $30 per booking
Bike availability may vary.