5 TOP MUST-DO'S ON THE HAURAKI PLAINS

1. Hauraki Rail Trail

Enjoy the entire 197km of track or tackle one of five sections. Considered one of New Zealand’s easiest cycle trails,everyone can give it a go! Hikers are welcome too.

2. Ngātea Water Gardens

A laugh-out-loud collection of humour-infused gardens, complete with amusing signs, fairy tale castle, an army of ducks and a feisty black swan. Relive your lunch box years at the 11,000-strong global can collection.

Ngātea Water Gardens © Roger Blake

3. Paeroa Historic Maritime Park

Absorb an interesting collection of maritime objects and jump on the restored kauri paddle boat for a leisurely cruise up the river.

4. Giant L&P Bottle

Getting a selfie with the iconic seven-metre L&P Bottle is compulsory in Paeroa. The town itself is also worth perusing, especially for its antique stores and second-hand shops.

5. Karangahake Gorge Historic Walkway

This historic railway walk is just an eight-minute drive from Paeroa. The Rail Tunnel Loop is 45 minutes return whereas the Historic Walkway to Waikino is four hours. Both tracks absorb the stunning gorge, gold-mining relics,steel bridges and 1km rail tunnel.

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