Hauraki Rail Trail

Stretching across the lush landscapes of the Coromandel Peninsula and the Waikato region, the Hauraki Rail Trail is a 160-kilometre cycling and walking route that follows historic railway lines. This easy-to-moderate trail offers a unique blend of native bush, coastal views, and charming small towns, making it a perfect self-drive addition for travellers exploring New Zealand's North Island. The trail is divided into five sections, each with its own character, from the tranquil banks of the Piako River to the dramatic Karangahake Gorge.

Highlights & What to See

• Karangahake Gorge: Cycle through the stunning gorge with its sheer cliffs, historic gold mining tunnels, and the iconic Victoria Battery ruins. Don't miss the short walk to the Owharoa Falls.
• Te Aroha Mineral Spas: Soak in natural hot springs at the historic Te Aroha Domain, where you can also explore the town's Edwardian architecture and the Te Aroha Museum.
• Paeroa: Home to the famous L&P soda, stop at the giant L&P bottle landmark and enjoy the town's quirky charm. The Paeroa section of the trail offers easy riding through farmland.
• Thames Coast: The trail's northern end at Thames provides access to the Coromandel Peninsula's beautiful beaches and the historic Thames School of Mines.
• Waikato River Trails: For a longer adventure, connect to the Waikato River Trails at the southern end near Matamata, offering more scenic cycling along New Zealand's longest river.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow at least 3 to 4 days to cycle the entire Hauraki Rail Trail, riding 40–50 kilometres per day. This pace lets you soak in the scenery, explore side attractions, and enjoy the local cafés. If you're short on time, the most popular section is the Karangahake Gorge loop, which can be done in half a day. The trail is well-maintained and mostly flat, suitable for casual cyclists and families.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Coromandel Town: A 30-minute drive from Thames, known for its artistic community, hot water beaches, and the famous Driving Creek Railway.
• Cathedral Cove & Hahei: Iconic coastal scenery with white-sand beaches and the stunning sea arch, about an hour's drive from Thames.
• Matamata (Hobbiton): A 40-minute drive from the trail's southern end, visit the Hobbiton Movie Set for a slice of Middle-earth.
• Mount Maunganui: A 1.5-hour drive from Te Aroha, enjoy the bustling beach town and the climb up Mauao for panoramic views.
• Rotorua: A 2-hour drive from Paeroa, explore geothermal wonders, Māori culture, and adventure activities.

Please check official sources for current details.