About the Trail

One of the Nga Haeranga Great Rides of New Zealand – the Waikato River Trails is a multi-purpose trail ideal for mountain biking, walking and running.

It provides access to areas previously seen by only a few. Located in the heart of the South Waikato, the Waikato River Trails follow the river from Atiamuri Village in the south, to the southern end of Lake Karapiro in the north. Divided into five sections, each trail is named after the lake the trail is connected to, and most who undertake the whole trail ride from the south to the north, following the river downstream (which isn’t all downhill!). For those choosing to ride individual sections, riding in either direction is an option.

The first two sections of Whakamaru and Maraetai are graded as 3 (Intermediate); the Waipapa section is graded as 4 (Advanced); and the last two Arapuni and Karapiro sections are graded as 3 (Intermediate). The trails are mostly 1.5 metres wide with compacted metal surfaces, across a range of terrain from gently undulating trails to some that are trickier single-track trails (particularly on the Waipapa section).

Riders and walkers should check the forecast and take appropriate clothing for the conditions. There are plenty of toilets along the trail, but limited drinking water is available so please be prepared. Although the trails are well signposted and mostly close to roads and settlements, visitors should carry a map, food and water, a basic tool kit and mobile phone (although coverage may be patchy).

While a temperate climate makes this an all-season trail, parts of the track can get muddy during winter (June – August), but any fog usually lifts to reveal a beautiful clear day.

Download the 104km trail map
FAQs
Are dogs allowed on the Trails?

Dogs are not allowed on the Trails for the safety of Trail users and adjacent farmers with the exception of the 1.5 kms from the Mangakino Lakefront to the end of the Mangakino golf course. Thank you for your support and understanding

If I am going to do the whole Trail, which way should I go?
South to North, or North to South?

Either direction is fine. Our personal preference is following the river starting in the south at Atiamuri and finishing in the north at Lake Karapiro.

How long will the entire journey take me if I do the 104km journey?

On a muscle bike cycling the whole trail can take the extra fit one day, any one with above average fitness two days and a comfortable ride is three days. E-bikes probably two days for most, dependent on battery life.

Is the Trail suitable for my children?

The intermediate sections of trail are suitable for children with good cycling experience. The trail is often close to the river so please keep a close eye on any children riding with you.

Is there mobile phone coverage on the Trails?

Mobile coverage on the trail is 80-90%. The area around the Waipapa Dam has patchy coverage.

What happens if I have an accident on the Trail?

If you have an accident on the trail call for assistance and refer to the most immediate trail entry point.

Can I get lost on the Trails?

Blue markers are frequently positioned on the trail and intersections have arrows pointing you in the right direction. Follow these and you won’t get lost.

Where can I find the nearest bike shop?

There are well stocked bike shops in Tokoroa, Putaruru and Taupo. Please check local shops for their business hours.

Are there particular hazards on the Trails to be aware of?

Hazards to be aware of are drop offs to the river, some sharp corners and traffic where there are road crossings.

Are there toilets along the trail?

There are 9 toilets over the course of the 104 km trail.

What type of E bikes are permitted on the Trail?

A national policy has been developed to ensure safety of Trail users across the Great Ride network. Policy is simple, bikes must have pedals that are and can be used to propel them and the electric motor power must not exceed 300W.

About the Trust

The Waikato River Trails officially opened in November 2011, and are managed by the Waikato River Trails Charitable Trust.

The Trust was established in 2006 to develop a network of trails along the Waikato River to bring more visitors to experience the picturesque South Waikato area. Over 20 local businesses provide a warm Waikato welcome to visitors including cafés, accommodation, bike hire and shuttle services. The Waikato River Trails are proud to be a member of the New Zealand Cycle Trails (NZCT) Great Rides network.

Projects

Over several thousand native trees planted every year.

As a custodian of more than 100km of the Waikato River, the access provided by the trails enables the Waikato River Trails Charitable Trust to actively manage the river margins and plant several thousand native trees each year.

The plantings have a positive effect on the environment and biodiversity by providing nutrients and a habitat and food source for the increasing population of birdlife. All of the native trees are planted by a committed team of volunteers.

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Sponsors
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Contact Us

Our team are constantly working on and around the 104 kilometres of river trail.
If you come across something that needs our attention or you have some positive feedback, please be sure to let us know!

You can call us on 0800 874 978 or complete the form below.

Incident Report

If you’d like to report an incident that occurred on our trail, please complete our Incident Report here.