Cycling through the Karangahake Gorge is a highlight of the Hauraki Rail Trail and a Must-Do for visitors seeking a mix of natural beauty, history, and adventure. With its easy terrain and stunning river-side trails, the journey offers breathtaking views of lush regenerating forest, diverse wildlife, Mamaku ferns, swift streams, the stunning Owharoa Falls and vast rock faces.
The sight, sound, feel, and smell of water affects us profoundly. In fact, being close to water can make us happier, calmer, and more emotionally healthy. To enjoy a river ride, follow the Ohinemuri River on the 24km section from Paeroa to Waihi. Immerse in rich pioneering and mining history, stop for a picnic, and take a ride on a vintage train on our most popular section of the Rail Trail.
Along the way, you’ll discover fascinating gold mining relics, rich cultural heritage, and a variety of excellent eateries and accommodation that make planning a multi-day ride a breeze.
Photo credit: Caleb Bird - Victoria Battery Ore Kiln Site
Day 1: Rail Trail Adventure & Waihi Goldmine Tour
Begin your adventure in Paeroa cycling the scenic section of the Ohinemuri River through the dramatic Karangahake Gorge. Take in views of the canyon, forest, and wildlife as you ride along the well-maintained trail.
The Ohinemuri dam and water race were constructed by the Waihi Gold Mining Company in 1897 to provide water power at the Victoria Battery at Waikino, some 6.5km downstream. This short detour is well worth exploring.
The Goldfields Railway operates a timetable between Waihi and Waikino. To shorten your ride, you can take your bike on the train for the 30-minute journey from Waikino Station to Waihi.
Finish your day in Waihi, and delve into the modern-day gold mining story with a Waihi Goldmine Tour. Learn about the gold extraction process, explore interactive exhibits, and discover the rich history of this mining town.
Waihi is proud of its history and has a heritage trail that points out places of interest. The growing number of cafes, restaurants, boutique shops, and options for accommodation make it a special place to mooch for a day or spend the night or longer.
Photo credit: Kiwi Way Of Life Photography - Wier Site
Must-See Highlights:
Stop at the historic Victoria Battery Museum and Tunnel to uncover relics of the industrial gold mining era.
The Battery was constructed by the Waihi Goldmining Company from 1897 to crush ore from the Martha Mine. Drawn by steam locomotives, 40 skip wagons each loaded with 1 1/2 tonne of quartz ore were hauled to the Battery site. There would be 14 trains daily.
You can read more about the township and things to see and do here.
Photo credit: Caleb Bird - This image is taken near the Talisman Carpark. Riders can take a 700m detour at the Karangahake Hall. Stay on the opposite side of the river from the Highway and ride towards Waihi. Riders will have to return via the same way to access the tunnel.
Today visitors can wander around the relics of the Old Processing site or take a tour in the Tram pulled by old mining engines. Visitors can also take a tour of the Museum to hear and see a visual history of the site in the Old Transformer Building.
The 1-kilometre long tunnel was once a vital part of New Zealand’s gold mining industry, serving as a railway passage for transporting ore and supplies. The tunnel is lit, but the dim ambiance adds to the adventure, so pack your bike lights for extra visibility.
Shared by cyclists and walkers, the cool, damp air and echoes of the past make it a unique experience for all ages. Pause at the entrance to take in the scale and marvel at the craftsmanship of this century-old engineering feat.
Photo credit: The Coromandel - Karangahake Gorge Tunnel
As you pedal through the Gorge, take a moment to hop off your bike and immerse yourself in nature’s wonders. The tranquil Owharoa Falls are a great spot for a picnic. Dip your toes in the cool water, or simply pause to soak up the beauty. It’s the perfect reminder that the journey is just as special as the destination.
Dining & Accommodation Options:
Book ahead and treat yourself to a delicious meal or workshop at The Falls Retreat, known for its seasonal and paddock-to-plate ethos.
For a truly immersive experience, stay overnight at the Karangahake Gorge Ruru PurePod, offering privacy and stunning views. Ruru PurePod is tucked among the serene beauty of forest, mountains, and farmland and offers an unforgettable escape into nature.
With sweeping views of Mt Karangahake, this secluded glass eco-cabin provides a sanctuary where the only sounds you’ll hear are the whispers of nature and the faint flow of the Waitawheta River below.
Photo credit: Felicity Jean - Ruru PurePod
Day 2: Goldfields Railway, Windows Walk & More
Begin the day with a coffee and breakfast at the historic Ti Tree Cafe. Nestled above the Cafe in the old Dentist studio is the eclectic bookshop, Books on Seddon. It's a treasure trove for lovers of secondhand books. Pop in to browse the collection and meet owner Margaret Kaye.
There's a nook for kids, quiet reading spaces and quirky art. The store is well worth a visit, and you can even get your treasure couriered home so you don't have to carry it on your bike!
Set off on your 9km ride from Waihi to Waikino, or you can choose to hop back on the train. Waihi Station is the only ex New Zealand Railway site in New Zealand that still contains its original buildings. Today the buildings are classified as Category II by the New Zealand Historic Places Trust.
After exploring the Gorge, you might embark on the Windows Walk, a scenic and historic trek through mining tunnels, roasting pits, and stamper battery remains. This track isn't available for bikes.
At the Waikino Memorial Bridge cross the river to relax over a homestyle lunch with heart-warming hospitality and to discover the rich history of the Waikino Hotel. You can sample their award-winning Eliza’s Claim Gold Gin for a unique local treat that's dusted with edible gold.
Photo: Waikino Hotel
With so much on offer when you ride the Hauraki Rail Trail, book in a few extra days either side of your ride. If you’re keen for more adventures, stretch your legs with one of the many excellent walks both on and around the Trail.
Bullswool Farm Heritage Park
If you're travelling with the kids, head to Bullswool Farm Heritage Park to meet rare farm animals and explore their award-winning Native Bird Reserve. Home to three generations of the Howse family, the farm has a diverse and interesting array of rare breed farm animals, several working farm museums, outdoor displays, and an award-winning Native Bird Reserve.
Windows Walk
This iconic walk starts in the Karangahake Gorge carpark area and is about an hour round trip. Along the track visitors can observe relics of the many processes that took place in extracting gold. From the tunnels where rock was extracted, to the roasting pits where the rock was broken down, and remnants of the huge stamper battery processing plant.
Photo: Looking down from the Windows Walk to the Crown Tramway Track which leads to Dickeys Flat.
Karangahake Gorge Historic Walkway
The Karangahake Gorge Historic Walkway follows the old Paeroa to Waihi railway line, with the remainder of the track following the banks of the Ohinemuri River. Old mine buildings, machinery, walkways and tunnels tell stories of a rich mining history.
The walkway is serviced by four carparks, located at the Waikino Visitor Centre, Waitawheta Road, Karangahake Reserve and Crown Hill Road. The walk is 7km and incorporates a 2km loop section.
Karangahake Tunnel Loop Walk
The Karangahake Tunnel Loop Walk is a Must Do, taking you along the Ohinemuri River and over the lower Waitawheta River, fully immersing hikers in New Zealand native flora.
Most of this is part of the Hauraki Rail Trail, but not the opposite side to the tunnel which is closed to bikes. The walk includes the 1100m railway tunnel, so ensure you pack a torch or head lamp.
Part of the Karangahake Gorge Historic Walkway, the Loop takes 45 minutes. This walk can start at the main Karangahake carpark or further North at the carpark by the Karangahake Hall.
Crown Tramway Track to Dickey Flat
Beginning at the confluence of the Ohinemuri and the Waitawheta Rivers, this walk heads up the Waitawheta River through the Waitawheta Gorge Tunnels to the remains of the Woodstock Pumphouse and beyond.
The easy, scenic river walk passes through beautiful bush and good swimming holes. A torch is needed for the 180m tunnel. Five minutes from the tunnel exit is a suspension bridge and then a track junction to Dickey Flat campsite.
This walk starts at the carpark by the Karangahake Hall, North of the Main Karangahake car park. You can also start at the Main carpark at the Karangahake Reserve. This walk takes 4 hours return.
This itinerary ensures you'll soak up the best of the Karangahake Gorge, from its natural wonders to its historic charm. Whether you're cycling the trails, exploring the gold-mining relics, or dining at world-class establishments, the Gorge offers something special for everyone.
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