Timber Trail, Waikato and Great Lake Cycle

Today we begin our adventure with an introduction and trip briefing before a short drive to the start of our first trail, the Forest Loop in Rotorua's iconic Whakarewarewa Forest. This loop is the newest Nga Haerenga Great Ride of New Zealand – purpose-built to take in a range of sights and scenery in Rotorua’s Whakarewarewa Forest. It also realises the community’s long-held vision to create a classic, deep-forest adventure. Being mostly easy (grade 2) with just a couple of short intermediate (grade 3) sections mixed in, the trail has been designed for confident riders of almost all ages, abilities and fitness levels. Storyboards along the route share the area’s long and fascinating history – from its fiery, volcanic past and rich Maori culture, to the planting of its mighty California Coastal Redwoods, all enjoyed with wonderful vistas of Lake Rotorua and Tikitapu. We finish the 34km ride at The Secret Spot where we can enjoy optional hot pools, showers and a celebratory drink and feed to celebrate the end of some epic riding. A short transfer will take us to our Rotorua accommodation in time to settle in before our first group dinner. Cycling Distance: Whakarewarewa Forest Loop Trail - 34km

Meals:  D

After breakfast we have a 45 minute drive to the start of the Waikato River Trail, a delightful Great Ride which follows New Zealand's longest river. Starting near Atiamuri, we ride the first section of this stunning trail and after stopping for a picnic by the river we then jump back on our bikes to ride a 2nd section of the trail. Both sections are primarily moderate grade mountain bike single tracks and do feature some hazards such as occasional tree roots, loose gravel, short sharp climbs and some tight corners. This southernmost section of the trail offers views of the expansive Lake Whakamaru. Almost directly across the lake at Atiamuri is the stunning Pohuturoa rock, a magnificent historically significant feature, lifted by volcanic forces and weathered by the elements. The second section also has great views along Lake Maraetai and includes the 70m long Mangakino stream suspension bridge. This section is also where the Waikato River Trails Trust has recently planted several thousand native trees along the edge of the Lake. After the ride it's time for some off-bike expereinces! We have a short drive to visit the Wairakei Terraces, nestled in the Wairakei geothermal valley, where we can enjoy a soak in the thermal waters. A visit to the nearby Huka Falls is a must, the largest falls on the Waikato River and the most visited natural attraction in New Zealand. Next up is our accommodation close to sparkling Lake Taupo, New Zealand's largest Lake and located in the caldera of the ancient Taupo Volcano. Cycling Distance: Waikato River Trail - 38km

Meals:  B,L

Lake Taupo boasts a wonderful network of trails around the Northern rim of the Lake. Great Lakes Trails are another of New Zealand's Great Rides and are a journey of volcanic discovery around the rim of Lake Taupo, a supervolcano that was formed after one of Earth’s largest known eruptions. Today's ride includes the lakeside settlement of Kinloch and Kawakawa Bay - we'll ride over volcanic headlands and get glimpses across Lake Taupo through to the volcanic mountains of the Central North Island. There are shorter and longer options for the afternoon, all on purpose built trails through lush native forest. As with the trails we have already ridden, these trails are moderate graded mountain bike trails so do have a level of technical riding with tight corners, loose gravel, tree roots and uphill and downhill single track. After our ride, we head to the Timber Trail Lodge in the heart of the Pureora Forest and our home for the next 2 nights. We check into our accommodation and unwind in anticipation for the next day's adventure. Cycling Distance: Great Lake Trail - up to 33km

Meals:  B,D

After breakfast this morning it’s a 50 min drive to the start of the Timber Trail on the edge of the Pureora Forest. The trail follows old logging roads and tramlines linked with well-constructed unsealed tracks and a series of thrilling suspension bridges. This is also moderate grade mountain bike trail and does include some hazards such as occasional tree roots and loose gravel. It can also be muddy if rain has been in the recent forecast. We get the hard work out of the way this morning, climbing for 14km through some stunning native forest until we reach the highest point of the ride. From here it’s mostly downhill for the rest of the day, winding down the side of Mt Pureora and across the flanks of the Hauhungaroa Ranges with a couple of amazing suspension bridges to cross along the way. We finish the day at Piropiro Flats right by our outstanding accommodation and hospitality at the Timber Trail Lodge. Cycling Distance: Timber Trail - 40km

Meals:  B,L,D

This morning we head back into the native forest and cross over a tumbling gorge on one of the highest and longest swing bridges in the country, keeping a lookout for New Zealand’s native pigeon, the beautiful Kereru. Today’s climbing consists of 2 much shorter uphills compared with yesterday’s ascent, with the 2nd one finishing at the Ongarue Tramway terminus. From there it’s mostly downhill all the way to the end following the old tramway. We pass remnants of the region’s logging history, more swing bridges and the fascinating Ongarue Spiral and its rather spooky, old tunnel. The trail continues downhill to Ongarue, where we finish this wonderful final ride. We then load the bikes before a 2 hour transfer back to Rotorua where you will be dropped at a central location early evening. Cycling Distance: Timber Trail - 43km

Meals:  B,L