The 22 GREAT RIDES
1 Twin Coast Cycle Trails, Northland
Grade 1-3, 87km, 2 days
From the Bay of Islands to the Hokianga Harbour, Pou Herenga Tai is an excellent trail for beginners. The relaxing route follows a mixture of rail trail, cycle paths, boardwalk and country roads, and although it’s possible to complete in a day, riders would do well to enjoy the array of detours, from a soak in Ngawha Springs to the ancient Wairere Boulders, its heritage sites, Northland hospitality and the subtropical climate.
2 Hauraki Rail Trail, Waikato
Grade 1-2, 173km, 4 days
Showcasing picturesque Waikato, this trail follows historic railway lines through the old gold hotspots of the north east. Beginning on the Shorebird Coast (Miranda), the trail links Kaiau with Thames, Paeroa, Te Aroha, Waihi and Matamata, taking in coastline, gold mining relics and impressive gorges. It’s mostly flat and generally enjoyed over 3-5 days, but it’s possible to take it section by section or to combine it with further riding in the Coromandel area.
3 Waikato River Trails, Waikato
Grade 3-4, 103km, 4 days
This trail tells
