Great news! AAA Trees have now cleared the fallen tree from the Whakamaru Section, and access to the trail has been restored.
A big thank you to AAA Trees for their prompt work, and to everyone who reported the fallen tree and provided detailed location information. Your assistance helped us respond quickly and get the trail reopened as soon as possible.
#trailupdate
๐ฎ๐ต/๐ฌ๐ฒ/๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ฎ๐ฒ: ๐ง๐ฟ๐ฎ๐ถ๐น ๐จ๐ฝ๐ฑ๐ฎ๐๐ฒ โ ๐ช๐ต๐ฎ๐ธ๐ฎ๐บ๐ฎ๐ฟ๐ ๐ฆ๐ฒ๐ฐ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป
A large tree is currently down across the trail on the Whakamaru Section, around the 11 km marker (not far from Tram Road).
Our contractor is scheduled to remove it on Wednesday, 1st July.
At this stage, we're unsure whether cyclists are able to get through, so if you're planning to use this section before then, please take extra care and be prepared to turn around if necessary.
A huge thank you to everyone who has reported this. The detailed information you provided, including the location, has been incredibly helpful and has allowed us to pass accurate information on to our contractor, helping us respond more efficiently.
Thank you for your patience and understanding while we get this cleared.
#trailupdate
A huge thank you to Forest View High School, Tokoroa, for returning to Lake Whakamaru to help care for the next generation of native forest.
Just 12 months ago, students planted more than 3,000 native trees at the site. Their return visit to release and maintain these young plants is a vital step in helping them thrive and establish for the future.
Weโre grateful for the ongoing commitment, hard work, and environmental leadership shown by the students and staff.
#trailupdate Forest View High School Tokoroa Official
Fantastic news for everyone using the Waikato River Trails and the local community - great to see Waipapa Road reopening ahead of schedule.
Huge thanks to all involved for the hard work getting this vital access route safely restored.
#trailupdate Ngฤ Haerenga Great Rides of New Zealand
๐ญ๐ฑ/๐ฌ๐ฑ/๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ฎ๐ฒ - ๐ง๐ฟ๐ฎ๐ถ๐น ๐จ๐ฝ๐ฑ๐ฎ๐๐ฒ - ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐ฝ๐ฎ๐ถ๐ฟ ๐ฃ๐ฟ๐ผ๐ด๐ฟ๐ฒ๐๐
Great progress continues on the Waikato River Trails, with the Maraetai section repairs now completed and contractors full steam ahead in the Waipapa section.
A big thank you again to Action Bobcats Ltd, J Swap Contractors Ltd, Skiffington Transport, Caleb Vasta, and the neighbouring landowners for their ongoing support and hard work.
We also like to acknowledge again the financial assistance provided through MBIE following the extreme weather event earlier this year, which has helped make these repairs possible.
Thanks everyone for the continued support as work progresses north๐คฉ
#trailupdate Ngฤ Haerenga Great Rides of New Zealand
Weโre also pleased to confirm that the Waipapa section of the trail will officially reopen to the public from Saturday 23 May๐
#event #trailupdate๐จ ๐จ WAIPAPA ROAD UPDATE
The Waipapa Road will be open on Saturday 23rd May for event buses and participants travelling by car.
๐จ IMPORTANT EVENT UPDATE ๐จ
As many of you know, we previously had to make course changes to the Marathon and 43km MTB events due to the closure of Waipapa Road following earlier weather damage.
Good news โ the road repairs have now been completed ahead of schedule, which means we can return to the ORIGINAL COURSE for both affected distances ๐
Please take note of the updated start times below ๐
๐ต 43km MTB - 7:45am
๐ Duathlon - 7:45am
๐ Marathon - 7:55am
๐ Starting from Waipapa Dam
๐ 22km - 10:00am (no longer 10:30am)
๐ UPDATED BUS TIMES
๐ก 6:45am โ MTB / Duathlon
๐ 6:50am โ Marathon
๐ฃ 8:45am โ 22km
Please make sure you check the updated timings before event day ๐
๐ต/๐ฑ/๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ฎ๐ฒ - ๐ง๐ฟ๐ฎ๐ถ๐น ๐จ๐ฝ๐ฑ๐ฎ๐๐ฒ โ ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐ฝ๐ฎ๐ถ๐ฟ ๐ฃ๐ฟ๐ผ๐ด๐ฟ๐ฒ๐๐
Following the significant weather damage caused by the extreme rain event in February this year, weโre pleased to share that repair work is progressing really well along the Waikato River Trails.
โ
The Whakamaru section repairs are now completed
โ
Contractors have made excellent progress through the Maraetai section
A huge thank you to the team at Action Bobcats Ltd for their continued hard work on site, J Swap Contractors Ltd for donated aggregate, Skiffington Transport for haulage, and Caleb Vasta for earthworks. We would also like to thank the landowners adjacent to the trail for continuing to provide access for this work to be carried out.
We would also like to acknowledge the financial assistance provided through MBIE following the extreme weather events, which has helped make these repairs possible.
We really appreciate the hard work, support, and collaboration from everyone involved as we continue restoring affected sections of the trail.
More updates to come as work progresses north ๐คฉ
#trailupdate Ngฤ Haerenga Great Rides of New Zealand
๐ฃ24/04/2026 - Trail Update
The heavy rain in mid February caused damage at over 50 sites along the trail. Over the past couple of months, weโve been busy assessing the damage, understand the cost to repair, securing funding, and engaging contractors.
We are really pleased to share that repair work is now underway, starting at Atiamuri and moving north.
Thanks to the team at Action Bobcats Ltd for their hard work on site, J Swap Contractors Ltd for donated aggregate, Skiffington Transport for haulage and Caleb Vasta for earthworks. Also a big thank you to the landowners adjacent to the trail for providing access for this work.
More updates over the comping weeks ๐คฉ
#Trailupdate Ngฤ Haerenga Great Rides of New Zealand
๐ง ๐๐ฟ๐ฎ๐ฝ๐๐ป๐ถ ๐ฆ๐๐ถ๐ป๐ด ๐๐ฟ๐ถ๐ฑ๐ด๐ฒ โ ๐๐ฐ๐ฐ๐ฒ๐๐ ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐บ๐ถ๐ป๐ฑ๐ฒ๐ฟ
Just a quick heads up for trail users:
The Arapuni Swing Bridge can currently be accessed from the Arapuni side only - however, it is closed at the far end, so it is not possible to ride or walk through to Powerhouse Road.
Works being carried out by Mercury mean the bridge is temporarily a return-only access point.
Please follow all signage on site and plan your ride accordingly.
#trailupdate
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๐ฃ๐ญ๐ณ/๐ฐ/๐ฎ๐ฒ - ๐ง๐ฅ๐๐๐ ๐จ๐ฃ๐๐๐ง๐๐ฃ
Our contractor will begin repair work on sections of the trail affected by the February storms starting this Monday 20th April.
Work will start on the Whakamaru section at the Atiamuri end, progressing towards Mangakino and into the Waipapa section over the coming weeks.
Please be aware that contractors will be working on the trail, with signage in place where work is underway. For your safety and theirs, please follow all instructions and take care when riding or walking through these areas.
Thank you for your patience while we carry out these important repairs.
#trailupdate
Well its been a busy couple of days - we have been through and checked both the Karapiro and Whakamaru sections over the last couple of days, clearing any fallen debris along the way.
But this afternoon we have had a heads-up about a branch down on the Karapiro section, about 1km from Little Waipa Reserve.
Just a reminder that things can change out there, so if youโre heading out, please take a bit of extra care and keep an eye out for any hazards.
If you do come across anything that needs attention, we really appreciate you letting us know๐
#trailupdate
The boss has been out on the trail today, completing a trail check from Mangakino to Whakamaru.
Everything along this section has been checked over, with the remaining sections scheduled to be completed during the week.
Please note there is still some damage from the February weather event. Repairs are scheduled, and we will advise when this work is due to take place.
If youโre out riding or walking in the other sections and come across anything new that needs attention, please let us know - we really appreciate the heads up!
Weโll keep you posted with any further updates and stay safe!
#trailupdate
Some very special days happen on the Waikato River Trails, and yesterday was definitely one of them.
A huge thank you to the amazing students and staff from Upper Atiamuri School. Twenty-six students and three staff members planted more than 1,000 native trees alongside the Trail at Atiamuri, helping restore the river's edge for future generations.
These young tamariki were polite, hardworking, and incredibly diligent. It was an absolute pleasure to have you working alongside us.
Upper Atiamuri School Ngฤ Haerenga Great Rides of New Zealand
Tooku awa koiora - Waikato River Authority #news
Have you walked, run or ridden the Waikato River Trails recently? We'd love to hear about your experience.
Your feedback helps us secure funding for ongoing maintenance, repairs and future improvements across the trail network.
๐ฃ๐น๐๐, ๐ฐ๐ผ๐บ๐ฝ๐น๐ฒ๐๐ฒ ๐๐ต๐ฒ ๐๐๐ฟ๐๐ฒ๐ ๐ฏ๐ ๐ฏ๐ฌ ๐๐๐ป๐ฒ ๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ฎ๐ฒ ๐ฎ๐ป๐ฑ ๐๐ผ๐ ๐๐ถ๐น๐น ๐ด๐ผ ๐ถ๐ป ๐๐ต๐ฒ ๐ฑ๐ฟ๐ฎ๐ ๐๐ผ ๐ช๐๐ก ๐ฎ $๐ญ๐ฌ๐ฌ Nothing Naughty ๐ฒ-๐๐ผ๐๐ฐ๐ต๐ฒ๐ฟ!
Every response helps us better understand how people use and enjoy the Trail, ensuring we can continue to protect and enhance this special place for everyone.
Share your feedback here: www.getsmartglobal.com/waikatorivertrails
#news
๐ช๐ถ๐ป๐๐ฒ๐ฟ ๐จ๐ฝ๐ฑ๐ฎ๐๐ฒ๐ ๐ณ๐ฟ๐ผ๐บ ๐๐ต๐ฒ ๐ช๐ฎ๐ถ๐ธ๐ฎ๐๐ผ ๐ฅ๐ถ๐๐ฒ๐ฟ ๐ง๐ฟ๐ฎ๐ถ๐น๐!
Our latest e-newsletter is here! Find out about:
๐ The successful restoration of trail damage following February's weather event
๐ Upcoming works at Powerhouse Road ahead of the Arapuni Dam closure
๐ Preparations for our 2026 planting season with 6,000 native plants
๐ Another sold-out Taniwha event and the positive feedback received from participants
๐ New Trail Naming Sponsors and the organisations helping support the Trail's future
๐ Our visitor survey โ share your feedback and help shape the future of the Waikato River Trails and all surveys completed by 30th June and go in the draw to win a $100 voucher from our friends at Nothing Naughty!
Check it out and see what's happening on the Trails this winter!
email.rocketspark.co.nz/t/r-DCE20C4D8FD50C942540EF23F30FEDED
#news Ngฤ Haerenga Great Rides of New Zealand
This National Volunteer Week, we want to say a huge thank you to all the incredible volunteers - past, present and future - who have helped make a difference on the Waikato River Trails.
From trail maintenance and planting projects to event support and advocacy, your time, energy, and passion have helped create and care for a trail experience that is enjoyed by thousands of people each year.
Every contribution, big or small, has played a part in shaping the Waikato River Trails into the special place it is today.
To everyone who has given their time over the years, and to those who may join us in the future, thank you for being part of the Waikato River Trails story.
Together, you're helping keep the Waikato River Trails thriving for generations to come๐
#news #NVW2026
The Great Rides App is a fantastic tool to help you get the most out of your ride on the Waikato River Trails and across all 23 of Ngฤ Haerenga Great Rides of New Zealand Cycle Trails.
With offline maps, GPS tracking, trail information, points of interest, and helpful tips all in one place, it's the perfect companion for planning and navigating your next adventure.
Want to explore a new trail or revisit a favourite, the Great Rides App helps you ride with confidence and discover more along the way.
๐ฒ Available to download on Apple and Android โ and itโs totally free.
#news
Rainy days are perfect for planning your next adventure!
While the weather might be keeping you indoors, now is a great time to start planning your next trip on the Waikato River Trails.
Whether you're looking for a weekend getaway, a cycling adventure, or a relaxing escape surrounded by stunning scenery, we've got a range of accommodation options to help make your trail experience even better.
Explore accommodation options in our Partner Directory and start planning your next visit
๐ www.waikatorivertrails.co.nz/partner-directory/#eat-sleep
The trails will be waiting when the sunshine returns!
#news
Kingโs Birthday Long Weekend on the Waikato River Trails
If youโre heading out on the trails this Kingโs Birthday weekend, there are some great local spots along the way to stop in for a coffee, a bite to eat, or something refreshing.
The below local businesses will be operating as usual over the long weekend, however please note that Rhubarb Cafe and Mangakino Club will be closed on Monday and Tuesday as part of their normal weekly operating hours.
๐ Ata's Bar & Eatery, Mangakino
๐ Mangakino Club, Mangakino
๐ Rhubarb Cafe , Arapuni
๐ The Dam Village Bakery Cafe, Whakamaru
Take a break, support local, and enjoy your time on the trails this long weekend!
#news
If youโve been out enjoying the Waikato River Trails lately, weโd love to hear from you.
Your feedback helps us secure funding for ongoing maintenance, repairs, and future improvements across the trail network.
Our goal is to reach 500 completed surveys, and every response helps.
๐ Share your feedback here: www.getsmartglobal.com/waikatorivertrails
Thank you for supporting the trails and the work happening across the network.
#news
If youโve been out on the Waikato River Trails recently, weโd love your feedback.
Weโre working towards 500 completed surveys to help secure funding for ongoing maintenance and improvements.
It only takes a few minutes and makes a real difference.
๐ Share your feedback here: www.getsmartglobal.com/waikatorivertrails
Thank you for supporting the trails.
#news
ANZAC Weekend on the Waikato River Trails
If youโre heading out on the trails this ANZAC Weekend, please take a moment to pause, reflect, and appreciate the significance of the day.
While youโre out, there are some great local spots along the way to stop in for a coffee, a bite to eat, or something refreshing โ all operating as per their normal hours this weekend.
๐ Ata's Bar & Eatery โ Mangakino
๐ Mangakino Club โ Mangakino (bookings recommended - Call or text Kevin: 021 217 4980)
๐ Rhubarb Cafe โ Arapuni
๐ The Dam Village Bakery Cafรฉ โ Whakamaru
As you travel the trails, take a moment to pause, reflect, and remember the meaning of ANZAC Day.
Take a break, support local, and enjoy your time on the trails this long weekend.
๐ณ๐๐๐ ๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐
#news
๐ฃTomorrowโs the big day for The Taniwha!๐
Wishing all participants the very best for an epic day out on the Waikato River Trails. Whether youโre tackling your first event or chasing a personal best, enjoy every moment and soak up the incredible atmosphere.
A huge lineup is waiting for you at the Taniwha event base with awesome supporters, great food, and plenty of good energy throughout the day. And donโt forget to support and grab one of the yummy BBQ bacon & egg sandwiches
#event
How awesome to see The Taniwha 2026 officially sold out๐
#event๐ THE TANIWHA 2026 HAS SOLD OUT ๐
Entries are now closed for all distances and there will be no on-the-day entries available.
The demand for this yearโs event has been incredible and weโre blown away by the support for this epic Waikato River Trails adventure ๐ฟ
To everyone joining us on the start line, get ready for an unforgettable day.
And for those who missed outโฆ The Taniwha will return in 2027 ๐
Weโre also pleased to confirm that the Waipapa section of the trail will officially reopen to the public from Saturday 23 May๐
#event #trailupdate๐จ ๐จ WAIPAPA ROAD UPDATE
The Waipapa Road will be open on Saturday 23rd May for event buses and participants travelling by car.
๐จ IMPORTANT EVENT UPDATE ๐จ
As many of you know, we previously had to make course changes to the Marathon and 43km MTB events due to the closure of Waipapa Road following earlier weather damage.
Good news โ the road repairs have now been completed ahead of schedule, which means we can return to the ORIGINAL COURSE for both affected distances ๐
Please take note of the updated start times below ๐
๐ต 43km MTB - 7:45am
๐ Duathlon - 7:45am
๐ Marathon - 7:55am
๐ Starting from Waipapa Dam
๐ 22km - 10:00am (no longer 10:30am)
๐ UPDATED BUS TIMES
๐ก 6:45am โ MTB / Duathlon
๐ 6:50am โ Marathon
๐ฃ 8:45am โ 22km
Please make sure you check the updated timings before event day ๐
Entries for The Taniwha are open - but if you want your name on your bib, youโll need to be in by May 10๐คฉ
Thatโs only a few days away. You can still enter after that, but youโll miss out on the personalised touch.
If youโve been thinking about itโฆ nowโs the time.
#event๐ Make it official. Make it yours.
Enter by May 10 to have your NAME on your event bib when you take on the Waikato River Trails.
After that, entries are still open, just without the personalised touch.
The Taniwha sold out in 2025 ๐คฉ
Such a standout event on the Waikato River Trails, bringing an awesome atmosphere to the trail each year.
If youโve been thinking about giving it a goโฆ make 2026 your year. Get in quick so you donโt miss out!
#event๐ 2025 sold out.
The Taniwha has become a must-do on the trail calendar & itโs easy to see why.
Make sure youโre on the start line for 2026.