The five Waikato River Trails
The Waikato River Trails are divided into five sections across a range of terrain from gently undulating trails to some that are steeper, rugged and more adventurous. The trails are are graded from 3 (Intermediate) to 4 (Advanced) and while they are mostly wide and smooth, some are trickier single-track trails (particularly on the Waipapa section) – a mountain bike is recommended.
☀️ Summer Holidays Reminder ☀
Over the summer holidays, more people are out and about enjoying the beautiful Waikato River Trails. We want to ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience.
If you come across any obstructions, such as trees or branches blocking the trail, please let us know. 📍 Remember to include details about where the issue is located using the kilometre (km) markers along the trail.
Your feedback helps our team respond quickly to keep the trails clear and safe for everyone. Thank you for your support!🤩
#trailupdate
Ngā Haerenga Great Rides of New Zealand Ngā Haerenga Great Rides of New Zealand
🌞 Summer Adventures on the Waikato River Trails! 🌞
Don’t forget there are some amazing spots in the region to stay while exploring the trails! Whether you're biking, hiking, or just looking to escape the fast pace of life for a bit, these camping spots are ready for you:
🏕 Little Waipa Reserve – Peaceful lakeside, 6km from Arapuni Village.
🏕 Jones Landing – Scenic and best for walkers or expert riders only.
🏕 Arohena Campground – A quiet gem with stunning views.
🏕 Mangakino Lakefront – Lakeside vibes and local charm.
🏕 Lake Whakamaru Reserve – Family-friendly with space to play.
🏕 Dunham’s Reserve – Relax and recharge by the river.
Plan your summer escape and discover these beautiful spots! 🌞
Ngā Haerenga Great Rides of New Zealand @southwaikato @lovetauponz
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Cafés Along the Waikato River Trails – Holiday Hours
Looking to fuel up during your summer holiday trail adventure! Here's when our fantastic cafés are open so you can plan your stops to enjoy your time out on the trails:
☕Ata’s Bar & Eatery, Mangakino: Closed 25–26 Dec. Open daily, 8am–2:30pm. Mobile café at Mangakino Lakefront from 10 Dec!
☕Mangakino Club, Mangakino: See attached for holiday openings hours.
☕The Dam Village Bakery Café, Whakamaru: Closed Christmas & New Year’s Day. Open daily, 5am–5pm.
☕Rhubarb Café, Arapuni: Closed 23 Dec–9 Jan 2025.
Reminder: Stay hydrated out there, so take plenty of drinking water with you!
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Wishing the team at Rhubarb Cafe a fabulous break this festive season🎄and we will see you back on the 9th January 2025🤩
#trailupdateFrom the Rhubarb family to yours, we sincerely wish each and every one of you a safe and happy Christmas. 🫶
Thank you to everyone that chose Rhubarb through the year, huge appreciation. 🙏🏻
Big thank you to all the staff that get the job done.
Big ups and appreciation to Liesel who holds it all together and for also taking on the role of manager going into 2025🙌🥂
We close end of today Sunday 22nd, and be back Thursday 9th January.
🌬️ WOW - what a windy day it's been! 🌬️
The strong winds today may have caused some branches or even trees to fall along the Waikato River Trails. If you come across anything while out and about, we’d really appreciate your help in letting us know.
📍 Please make a note of the location using the kilometre (km) markers along the trail and send us a message with the details. This will help our team respond quickly to clear any hazards and keep the trails safe for everyone.
Thanks for your support and stay safe out there!
#trailupdate
***UPDATE*** 11/12/2024 - 4:10pm
Great news! Mercury has advised us that the issue with the downed powerline near Dunhams Reserve has now been resolved.
The cordoned-off section of the Whakamaru trail is safe for use again. We appreciate your patience and cooperation while this was being sorted.
Enjoy your time on the trails, and thank you for your understanding!
📢📢10/12/2024 - 9.20am - TRAIL UPDATE - WHAKAMARU SECTION
We have just been informed by Mercury that there is a powerline down around the trail by Dunhams Reserve.
The Trail has been cordoned off, so please no access until the issue has been resolved. We will provide an update ASAP.
#trailupdate
We are thrilled to acknowledge the incredible generosity of PermaPine LTD for donating posts to help us improve safety along the Waikato River Trails. Thanks to their support, we’re installing new barriers in key sections of the trail to ensure a safer experience for everyone.
#trailupdate Ngā Haerenga Great Rides of New Zealand @nzcycletrail
We are incredibly grateful to Atiamuri Sand and Pumice for their generous donation of rocks for stabilisation and erosion control along the Waikato River Trails.
Operating near Lake Whakamaru, this fantastic local business is helping us ensure the trails remain safe and enjoyable for all.
Thank you, Atiamuri Sand and Pumice, for making a difference! 😍
#trailupdate Ngā Haerenga Great Rides of New Zealand
