Take It Easy Bike Tour -
Hauraki Rail Trail And Te Awa River Ride
4 Days / 4 Nights
These trails have been selected primarily because they are graded Easy. You will be collected from the airport or central meeting place and we head for your accommodation at Miranda on the east coast of the North Island where you begin your cycle holiday. If you are content to put in a few kilometres on both fine gravel purpose built paths and then concrete paths and prefer to do without the hard slog of hills, tree roots, tights corners, rocks and all the elements associated with true mountain biking then this is the package for you.
From here we head across the Hauraki Plains visiting quaint country towns and goldmining historical sites, while traversing rich pastoral countryside. After the Hauraki Rail Trail we head to the beautiful town of Cambridge, known as the “Town of Trees and Champions” and will visit the world class Avantidrome, a 250m cycling velodrome and also pass by Lake Karairo home to some of our famous rowers. Then its off to explore the Waikato River with its tree studded banks and enjoy the sights of Hamilton city.
Day One
Miranda to Kopu - 25km, 2.5 hrs, Grade 1, Easy
Kopu to Paeroa - 26km, 2.5 hrs, Grade 1, Easy
Following the disused historic railway you travel across the Hauraki plains, the Matatoki Cheese Barn and Convenient Cow are two excellent cafes that offer rest and refreshment on your way to the Antiques town of Paeroa. You will then be shuttled to your nights’ accommodation in the mining town of Waihi (Martha mine, a gold and silver mine, is still in operation today).
Day 2
Waihi to Paeroa – 25km - 2.5hrs, Grade 1, Easy
Paeroa to Te Aroha – 21km - 2hrs, Grade 1 Easy
This is an exceptionally attractive and historically interesting day. If it works in with your schedule you may have the option to take the Goldfields diesel train along with your bikes in the open air carriage the first 14kms to the restored Waikino Station Cafe with its Devonshire teas and charms of yesteryear. The Victoria Battery is in close proximity as is the Waikino Tavern which was once the hub of goldmining times and is filled with relics and photos of the areas gold mining past.
From Paeroa following the decommissioned and slightly elevated railway line you are on your way to Te Aroha once again crossing lush countryside. Te Aroha is nestled at the foot of Mt Te Aroha, this was also once a gold mining town in the 1800s and is now famous for its natural hot springs. You are then taken to your accommodation in the picturesque town of Cambridge.
Day 3
Hamilton to Karapiro - 37.7km, 3-4hrs, Grade 1, Easy
You are taken to Hamilton Gardens, from here you meander your way back to Cambridge visiting the world class Avantidrome, hopefully you’ll be able to watch some amazing cycling taking place. From here it’s a delightful 18.4kms to the end of the trail at Karapiro Lake. Blue Tui will return you to your accommodation.
Day 4
Ngaruawahia to Hamilton Gardens - 29kms, 3hrs, Grade 1, Easy
Today we leave for Ngarauwahia which is situated at the confluence of the Waikato and Waipa rivers, you will cycle on a purpose built concrete path following the Waikato river into Hamilton city. Blue Tui will be waiting at Hamilton Gardens, you will then be returned to your accommodation and the end of our cycle holiday.
Minimum 4
