Waikato River Trails
The Waikato River Trails follow New Zealand’s longest river, through native bush, exotic forest and remote farmland. Trek over boardwalks, streams and suspension bridges.
The Waikato River Trails follow New Zealand’s longest river, through diverse native bush, forest and remote farmland. Trek over boardwalks, streams and suspension bridges.
The trails cover roughly 103 kilometres of previously inaccessible Southern Waikato land. They wind their way along a path that encompasses the magic and beauty of New Zealand native bush and exotic forest. View the geological delights of historic landmarks and interesting rock formations.
Be inspired as you walk, run or cycle through grassed farmland and open reserves. Amble over boardwalks above the wetlands, and take in expansive lake and river views.
Physical Address of the Office:
Waikato River Trails
6 Main Street, Putaruru 3411
Phone:07 883 3720 or 0800 TRI WRT 0800 874 978
Website: www.waikatorivertrails.co.nz
Facebook: www.facebook.com/WaikatoRiverTrails1
About The Waikato River Trails
As a member of the New Zealand Cycle Trails network, the Waikato River Trails are a fascinating, adventurous ride showcasing New Zealand’s longest river, the Mighty Waikato. A multi purpose trail ideal for mountain biking, walking and running, the trails provide access to areas previously seen by only a few. The trails are ridable all year round, however an extra layer or two will be required in the winter months.
The ride can best be described as a crescendo of sights amongst beautiful landscapes. Around each corner you will experience something new. The villages along the way provide accommodation and cafes with the best of heartland hospitality.
How long will it take you? You choose what distances you want to travel. You can decide if you want to cycle the whole trail – or select a part of the Trail.
If you want to enjoy and make the most of your time along the Trails you need to be prepared. If you and your group have a low to moderate fitness level and haven’t done much biking in the last year for two, then we suggest that you allow an extra day to break up the advanced sections within our Trail.
You can arrange your own trip – or there are helpful Trail operators who can organise a trip that will suit you.
Below are some popular itineraries to consider.
Four day options
All the Way
Day 1 – Atiamuri Bridge carpark to Mangakino (35km)
Day 2 – Mangakino to Waipapa Dam (19km)
Day 3 – Waipapa Dam to Jim Barnetts Reserve (21km)
Day 4 – Jim Barnett Reserve to the Pokaiwhenua Bridge carpark (30km)
Walking the Trail
Walking the Waikato River Trails is one way to connect with nature all year round, in previously inaccessible Southern Waikato land.
Be captivated by breath-taking scenery and the feeling of being one with nature. Be inspired as you walk through grassed farmland and open reserves. Hike over boardwalks above significant wetlands, and enjoy expansive lake and river views.
Whether it is to be a bonding time between parent and child, spending time with your partner or as part of a group excursion – take the journey, live the experience, no regrets.
Suggested Five day journey starting from the south heading north:
Day 1 – Atiamuri Bridge carpark to Lake Whakamaru Reserve (21km)
Day 2 – Lake Whakamaru Reserve to Mangakino (14km)
Day 3 – Maraetai Dam entrance road to Waipapa Dam (16km – steeper terrain)
Day 4 – Waipapa Dam to the trail start on Waotu South Road (16.5km – steeper terrain)
Day 5 – Jones Landing to Little Waipa Reserve (10.5km)
Three day options
Short & Sweet
A three day trip sampling only the intermediate sections of the trail.
Suggested three day journey starting from the south heading north:
Day 1 – Atiamuri Bridge carpark to Lake Whakamaru Reserve (20km)
Day 2 – Lake Whakamaru Reserve to Mangakino (14km)
Day 3 – Arapuni Dam to the Pokaiwhenua Bridge carpark (13.5km)
The Full Monty
Suggested three day journey starting from the south heading north:
Day 1 – Atiamuri Bridge carpark to Mangakino (35km)
Day 2 – Mangakino to Jim Barnetts Reserve (40km)
Day 3 – Jim Barnett Reserve to the Pokaiwhenua Bridge carpark (30km)
Two day options
Go with the Flo
Day 1 – Atiamuri Bridge carpark to Mangakino (35km)
Day 2 – Arapuni Dam to the Pokaiwhenua Bridge carpark (13.5km)
Two Day Dust off
Day 1 – Atiamuri Bridge carpark to Waipapa Dam (54.6km)
Day 2 – Waipapa Dam to the Pokaiwhenua Bridge carpark (47.5km)