Catherine Stewart Hauraki Rail Trail

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In May this year I attended the opening of the Hauraki Rail Trail, part of Nga Haerenga – The New Zealand Cycle Trail.

Cycling ambassador, Sarah Ulmer, was one of the special guests and after speeches by the dignitaries we set off on our bikes.  There was a huge crowd of all ages and abilities.  The departure point was Waikino.  It was relaxing cycling through the spectacular Karangahake Gorge.   There are information panels at various places along the way to learn about the gold-mining history.

A highlight was cycling through the old Karangahake Gorge railway tunnel, some 1 km long.  Although it is lit up inside it is still quite dark and a torch is recommended.

My goal was to cycle to Paeroa and back in time for the 3pm spot prizes and celebrations.  I made it to Paeroa, some 14kms from Waikino, in just over an hour.  Great, I thought, I should be back by 3pm.

However, it was uphill on the way back and with a strong headwind it was a challenge.  I got back at 3.20pm satisfied that I had completed the round trip and have a certificate to prove it!

From Paeroa there are opportunities to cycle onto Te Aroha or Thames.  I am looking forward to doing that trip next summer.

Check out www.haurakirailtrail.co.nz for further information

Photos:   Opening Day of the Hauraki Rail Trail

Approaching the Karangahake Gorge tunnel

Light at the end of the tunnel