3-Day Triple Trail

Hauraki Rail Trail, Waikato River Trail & Te Awa River Ride

Experience the very best of the Waikato and beyond with this thrilling 3-day self-guided cycle adventure. Ride a different trail each day, with each trail offering its own unique landscapes, stories, and highlights. From lush farmland and country towns to native bush and boardwalks hugging the mighty Waikato River, this is the perfect package for riders who want to explore it all.

1 day on the Hauraki Rail Trail, 1 day on the Waikato River Trail and 1 day on the Te Awa

Duration

3 Days

Ages

12+

Price

From $719.00 per person

Activity Grade

Easy to Intermediate
(Grades 1-3)

Day 1 begins with a relaxed ride on the Hauraki Rail Trail from Te Aroha to Matamata. This scenic section winds through lush farmland with stunning views of the Kaimai Ranges — a gentle and rewarding start to your multi-trail adventure.

On Day 2, choose between two incredible sections of the Waikato River Trails. Ride from Arapuni to Pokaiwhenua Bridge, taking in swing bridges, native bush, and dramatic river views — or opt for the more remote and rugged trail from Atiamuri to Mangakino, offering lake vistas and forested terrain.

Day 3 wraps up with the Te Awa River Ride, starting in Ngaruawahia and finishing at the Velodrome in Cambridge. Flowing riverside paths, boardwalks, and iconic bridges make for a smooth and scenic final day.

With all transport, accommodation, e-bike hire, and support taken care of, this 3-day package is perfect for riders wanting to experience the best of the Waikato’s trail network — three unique rides, one unforgettable journey.

Contact Us to Book

Day 1 - Te Aroha to Matamata

23km, 2 to 3 hours

Start your adventure in the heart of the Waikato countryside.

Meet us in Matamata, where you’ll be shuttled to Te Aroha, a charming spa town at the foot of Mt Te Aroha.

From here, ride the scenic Te Aroha to Matamata section of the Hauraki Rail Trail - a smooth, flat ride across lush farmland with the Kaimai Ranges as your backdrop. Keep an eye out for the striking Wairere Falls and enjoy the peace of open rural landscapes. This is a fantastic warm-up day suitable for all riding levels.

Settle in for the night with a stay in Matamata, home of Hobbiton and great local dining options.

Day 2 - Arapuni to Riverside Adventures Base OR Atiamuri to Mangakino

Arapuni to Riverside Adventures Base - 12km, 1 - 2 hours
Atiamuri to Mangakino - 38kms, 5 - 6 hours

Today you have an option of which spectacular section of the Waikato River Trail you would like to tackle.

Meet at our Riverside Adventures Base (362 Horahora Road, Piarere) where you’ll be shuttled to the start of your chosen ride.

For a full-day challenge: Start in Atiamuri and ride to Mangakino through native bush, past lakes and hydro dams, over swing bridges, and alongside volcanic landmarks. At the end of your ride, you’ll be picked up from Mangakino and returned to our base.
Prefer something shorter or less technical? Choose the Arapuni to Karāpiro section, packed with highlights like the Arapuni Swing Bridge, Rhubarb Café, native bush trails, and a boardwalk beside Lake Karāpiro.

After your ride, make your way to Cambridge and settle into your accommodation, ready for another big day tomorrow.

Day 3 - Ngāruawahia to Cambridge

49.5km, 4 - 6 hours

Meet at the Grassroots Trust Velodrome in Cambridge, where you’ll be shuttled north to Ngaruawahia - the start of your final ride along the Te Awa River Ride.

Ride south alongside the Waikato River on one of New Zealand’s most popular and accessible cycle trails. Along the way, enjoy the Perry Bridge, historic sites like the Turangawaewae Marae, great cafés in Hamilton, and the world-famous Hamilton Gardens.

Your ride finishes back at the Velodrome, where your vehicle awaits - and so does the feeling of accomplishment after completing three spectacular days on three iconic trails.

Optional shuttle pick up from Hamilton Gardens or Tamahere if you would prefer a shorter ride.