Tour 6 - Waikato Splash
3 Day Unique Biking Adventure
Discover a slightly different side of the Hauraki Rail Trail with our Waikato Splash tour, a delightful journey embracing the wet element. Perfect for all riders, this adventure spans three days of scenic exploration along the renowned Hauraki Rail Trail.
Day 1 - Thames to Paeroa: Countryside Bliss
Embark on your adventure from Thames, cycling through the picturesque Hauraki countryside, crossing many wooden bridges over the streams between the paddocks. Glide towards Paeroa, known for its antique shops. On the way, we recommend a refreshing stop at the Matatoki Cheese Barn for a hot drink and meal or, of course, a Cheese platter comprising their award winning cheeses and a dessert, while watching the alpacas. Enjoy a visit to the tidal Waihou River and explore the Maritime Museum by the Waihou river, before riding into Paeroa. Depending on tides and availability, a river cruise on one of the restored passenger boats will be on the agenda, enhancing your unique tour experience.
Day 2 - Karangahake Gorge Exploration: Bridges and Waterfalls
Experience the famous Karangahake Gorge, with its bridges, mining sites, and historic train tunnel. Enjoy a coffee at Waikino Station. Admire the iconic Owharoa Waterfalls, then ride on, alongside the Karangahake River to Waihi. Enjoy the atmosphere of an old mining town. Continue your ride back to Paeroa (48 km round trip), or book an optional shuttle (NZ$ 150 for two people, other numbers on request). to return you to your Paeroa accommodation.
Day 3 - Farm to Spa: Paeroa to Te Aroha
Cycle from Paeroa through scenic farmland to Te Aroha, an enchanting old Spa town with a rich history. Indulge in a soak in the thermal pools to relax your muscles before a shuttle takes you back to Thames. Optionally, extend your stay for another night, riding on to Matamata the next day for additional water adventures (available on request). Your car remains in secure parking until a shuttle brings you and your bikes back to Thames.
Duration: Day 1: 4-5 hours (incl. lunch stop), 34 km, Day 2: 6-7 hours (incl. walks/attractions), 24 km, Day 3: 4-5 hours (incl. attractions) 23 kms
Fitness Level: Low to moderate (slight uphill towards Waihi)
Trail Condition: Easy straight Gravel Trail
Group Size: Min. 2 people
Recommendations:
We recommend doing the tour on an Electric Bike. We will fit you on the bikes before you leave the shop. Full instructions will be given on how to use an e-bike and there is an opportunity to try one in case you are unsure about how to ride them or if you want to use an E-Bike. Standard bikes such as mountain bikes are also available to use.
Included Services:
Bike hire incl. instructions
Helmet, Lock & Bike Bag Hire
Map and travel tips
Two nights' overnight accommodation in Paeroa
River Cruise* (*Based on availability)
Spa OR Kayak experience
Luggage Transfers
Shuttle from Te Aroha to Thames at 4 pm on day 3
Price:
E-Bike: typically NZ$ 1100 p.p.
Standard Bike: NZ$ 900 p.p
Children up to 12 years on a Standard Bike: NZ$ 850 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 from NZ$300.00 per day (per group).
Pre- or post-tour accommodation is available at NZ$160 per night p.p. when booked alongside your tour reservation
Due to the high variation of availability of this adventure, we first ask you for your desired dates, customize your tour, and then provide you with a personalised quote. Immerse yourself in the Waikato Splash experience - contact us to plan your unique biking escapade!
*Get a 5% discount on your tour when you pay in full at least 2 months before the booking date.
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 unless arranged in advance. Sundays hire by negociation 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: 4+ days: 15% off total price
Public holiday surcharge extra $30 per booking
Bike availability may vary.