Section B:
Thames to Paeroa
THAMES WEATHER
Distance: 34 km (3-4 hours)
Trail Status: Notification
Fitness: All Levels
Skill: All Levels
Traffic: Light to Moderate
Grade: 1
This richly historic area was once only accessible via the two rivers, Waihou and Hikutaia. The section of trail begins at first following the old railway line out of Thames town and through lush farmland, with memorable views across the Hauraki Plains and forested Kaimai Ranges.
At the Cheese Barn at Matatoki you’ll find a BYO Cafe, cheese tastings, and fabulous animal farm. The alpacas, rabbits, guinea pigs, chickens, budgies, and Cookie the spotty sheep offer great entertainment for the whole family. Complementing the delicious array of food, homemade Gelato and Sorbet are on offer to keep you cool on your ride.
Paeroa's Historical Martime Park is New Zealand’s most inland water port. The Museum has significant links dating back to pre-European settlement and the arrival of Captain James Cook in 1769 aboard HMS Endeavour. Hop on the riverboat with your bike, and enjoy the journey into the township of Paeroa via the Waihou and Ohinemuri Rivers.
Ensure you arrive into Paeroa early enough to fossick through the many antiques and collectables shops. World famous in New Zealand for its giant L&P bottle on the main street, there’s also good options for accommodation and places to eat for riders looking to overnight.
Please note:
- Phone coverage is generally good on this section of the trail.
- Dogs are not permitted on this section, except where the trail intersects the urban areas of Thames and Paeroa.
Have you ridden the Trail recently? We need your feedback to help us secure future funding to take the Trail from Good to Great. Please take a few minutes to complete the Survey, and be in the draw to win a Kennett Brothers Cycle Trails Book.
Highlights include:
- Thames township, rich in pioneering and gold-mining history
- Historic Kopu Bridge
- Matatoki Cheese Barn
- Rural tranquility and views of the Hauraki Plains and Coromandel Ranges
- Paeroa Historical Maritime Park
- Antique shopping in Paeroa
- Visit the giant famous in New Zealand L&P Bottle
Accommodation
Thames to Paeroa
Pedlars Motel - Paeroa
Enquire direct for costs
Pedlars Motel is situated right on the edge of the Hauraki Rail Trail in the heart of Paeroa.
Avalon Motel
Avalon Motel is the perfect base from which to explore the Hauraki Rail Trail and Coromandel Peninsula.
Earthbridge Eco B&B
Earthbridge Eco B&B is a private, rural delight located in the beautiful Maratoto Valley, offering an ideal Hauraki destination, allowing visitors to slow down the pace in a safe and beautiful environment.
Paeroa RV Centre
Located in Paeroa, the hub of the Hauraki Rail Trail, the quiet and spacious Paeroa RV Centre offers easy access to Sections B, C and D of the Trail.
Onetai Estate
Onetai Estate is a homestay set within 22 acres and surrounded by native bush, offering accommodation to those enjoying the Hauraki Rail Trail.
Motorhome Camping Options - Section B
With more than a dozen motorhome camping options available across the Trail Network, there's every reason to visit the region and spend time exploring the Hauraki Rail Trail.
Dickson Holiday Park
Surrounded by lush bush and birdsong, Dickson Holiday Park is located 4km north of Thames at Tararu on the Thames Coast, and is just 5km from the Trail Head of the Hauraki Rail Trail at Shortland Wharf in Thames.
Tuscany on Thames Motel
Enquire direct for costs
Tuscany On Thames is a well equipped Motel close to everything in Thames.
Rolleston Motel - Thames
Enquire direct for costs
The Rolleston Motel is the top ranked Motel in Thames on Tripadvisor.
Paeroa Motel
Enquire direct for costs
Conveniently situated on the northern end of Paeroa, we are the ‘Park & Ride” of the Rail Trail.
Corbett House Historic B&B
Enquire direct for costs
Peaceful, relaxing & historical. A B&B with a difference just a short distance from the Rail Trail.
Dine & Drink
Thames to Paeroa
Providence Pantry - Paeroa
Providence Pantry is a gorgeous European style Deli, offering a wonderful range of fresh made foods.
Burton’s on Pollen Lunch Bar
Burton’s on Pollen Lunch Bar is a Daughter’n’Law and Mother’n’Law team, bringing you a delicious selection of food and beverages.
Gastronomics Restaurant Café & Bar
The popular Gastronomics Restaurant Café & Bar in the heart of Thames is open 7 days a week
One3One Restaurant Cafe & Bar
Offering great all day dining just off the Hauraki Rail Trail in Paeroa
Courtyard Cafe - Paeroa
A great little Cafe on the outside but a spacious courtyard for dining within...
Subway Paeroa
A locally owned Subway just metres from the Hauraki Rail Trail in Paeroa..
Kopu Cafe
The perfect refuel stop, with a wide range of cabinet foods and all day menus.
The Cheese Barn at Matatoki
Cheese Factory / BYO Café / Gift Shop / Animal Farm just metres from the Hauraki Rail Trail.
See & Do
Thames to Paeroa
Paeroa Information Hub
They do it all at the Hub! Centrally located on the Rail Trail for all your cycling and accommodation needs.
Historical Maritime Park
Adults from $8.00
Enjoy the park, jump on a boat and cruise the river to Paeroa
Fee & Mands on Willoughby
Fee & Mands on Willoughby is a bespoke Homewares and Décor store in the heart of Paeroa, next to the Refinery Café.
Buildlink Paeroa
Your local 4th generation hardware, timber and building supplies store.
Read Bros Hardware Ltd - Thames
With five generations and 156 years of knowledge behind us, chances are we’ll know what you’re looking for.
Bullswool Farm Heritage Park
Just a short drive from the Hauraki Rail Trail, Bullswool Farm Heritage Park has a diverse and interesting array of rare breed farm animals, several working farm museums, outdoor displays, and an award-winning Native Bird Reserve.
Thames School of Mines
Adults $10.00
See intriguing education buildings, classic gold rush machinery, and a vast collection of minerals
Thames to Paeroa
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