Hauraki 15 by Tracks N Trails

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Ph + 64 7 868 5140 路 www.haurakirailtrail.co.nz 1 | HAURAKI RAIL TRAIL

Pamper Me MediSpa

Located in the heart of the beautiful Coromandel Peninsula, Pamper Me is Thames’ premier ‘MediSpa’ offering a full range of personalised skincare and treatments for both men and woman. Our comprehensive treatment menu embraces the diversity of our clients. Check us out for spa treatments, eye care, facials, hand & foot care, tanning, both female & male waxing, and more. Pamper Me MediSpa offers a Mens Clinic, Massage, DMK, IPL, Injectables and cosmetic tatooing. We also specialise in select massage and spa treatments that will take you on a journey, experiencing pure relaxation and care. Together we uplift each other to new, higher levels of empowerment, release the burdens of life and escape to our place. You are your most valuable asset, and we are here to nurture your mind, body and spirit to experience joy, bring balance and harmony to you, while we guide you to achieving the results you deserve.

Pamper Me

537a Pollen Street, Thames 3500 Via service Lane 6 (‘Lois Lane’ next to the Civic Centre) Email: pamper-me@xtra.co.nz web: www.pamper-me.co.nz Facebook: Pamper Me Thames 2 | HAURAKI RAIL TRAIL

Phone: + 64 7 868 7058

explore by bike THAMES - PAEROA / PAEROA - WAIHI / PAEROA - TE AROHA

Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t miss this historical rail trail biking experience - plan your trip now! Call to discuss accommodation, baggage transfer, bike hire, shuttles and guide options ph 07 868 5140 or visit www.haurakirailtrail.co.nz

HAURAKI RAIL TRAIL | 3

HOT WATER BEACH

WHITIANGA

TAIRUA

PAUANUI

THE PINNACLES (759M)

ROAD AROUND THE COROMANDEL COAST

25A

1 2 3

THAMES

MATATOKI

KOPU

PURIRU

7km 42mins

4km 24mins

TURUA

TO AUCKLAND

<WAIHOU

4km 24mins

8km 48mins

HIKUTAIA

10km 1hour KEREPEHI NGATEA

HISTORICAL MARITIME PARK

AKI PLAINS HAUR PIAKO WETLAND (KOPUATAI PEAT DOME)

Key Hauraki Rail Cycle Trail

14km 1hr 24mins

Goldfields Historic Railway

Distance and time between two points (at an average riding speed of 10km/hr)

Accommodation

Coffee

Camping

Secure Parking

Toilets

Pub/Beverages

Bakery

Train

Food

Petrol

Information

4 | HAURAKI RAIL TRAIL

Sherpa Shuttles pickup

Accommodation (see overleaf)

Sorry, no dogs allowed on trails due to farming activities

PAEROA

MAYOR ISLAND

BAY OF P LEN TY

WHANGAMATA

WHIRITOA

9 10

TO HOT WATER BEACH

11 12 ROAD AROUND THE COROMANDEL COAST

13 2

5 6

WAIKINO

7 8

WINDOWS WALK

WAIHI BEACH

WAIHI 11km 1hours 6mins

TO TAURANGA 2

GOLDFIELDS HISTORIC RAILWAY WAIKINO - WAIHI VICTORIA BATTERY SITE

KARANGAHAKE MOUNTAIN (544M) 14km 1hours 24mins

KARANGAHAKE

OLD RAILWAY TUNNEL 1KM LONG

TIROHIA 26

MOUNT TE AROHA (952M)

14 21km 2hours 6mins

MANGAITI

GLOW WORMS HOT WATER POOLS

TO TAURANGA

TE AROHA

TO MATAMATA, HOBBITON AND HAMILTON HAURAKI RAIL TRAIL | 5

Welcome to the magazine Well done for picking up this free copy of the Hauraki Rail Trail magazine – we hope you enjoy it and would love to hear your thoughts.

t means you’ve made it to our special place here in Hauraki-Coromandel where memorable adventures await, as you pass through the many communities that make up our districts of Thames-Coromandel and Hauraki. Operators of the Hauraki Rail Trail are available to you, to make your journey as easy and enjoyable as possible. If you have not done so already, be sure to visit the official Hauraki Rail Trail website www.haurakirailtrail.co.nz and support the businesses that put back into the upkeep of this incredible recreational facility. By booking services through haurakirailtrail.co.nz, you are contributing to the trails’ maintenance and improvement and for all of the services we offer, 15 per cent of each booking is paid to the Hauraki Rail Trail Charitable Trust at no extra cost to you.

How to use the magazine

There’s something for everyone on our trail, from day trips like a 3km ride along the Thames Coast, to options of between 21km and 33km on the Thames-Paeroa, Paeroa to Waikino return, Paeroa to Te Aroha or Paeroa to Waihi sections. Once here you might opt for the short 4km Waihi gold pit rim trail. The use of the railway corridor for this cycle way creates a flat, wide and smooth trail that makes the Hauraki Rail Trail the easiest riding trail in New Zealand. Each town on the rail trail has a proud identity and warm close-knit relationship between residents, the land and the sea – and they want to welcome cyclists and visitors because, like them, they know you are likely to be a lover of the outdoors and of the good things in life.

Over the years we’ve had lots of groups cycle the trail, so this we’ve devised suggested itineraries for the four main groups we see – those who like to take it easy, those seeking adventure, families and girls’ trips. The itineraries are just a snapshot of what’s available in our districts and feel free to discover your own journey, mix it up a little depending on your mood during your stay, or talk to the operators of the trail for other options. 6 | HAURAKI RAIL TRAIL

Contents

Thames (Parawai) . . . . . . . pages 8 - 15

Unwind in the Southern Hemisphere’s largest outdoor thermal mineral pool

Paeroa, Waikino and Karangahake Gorge . . . . pages16 - 24 Families . . . . . . . . . . . . pages 26 - 31 Te Aroha . . . . . . . . . . . pages 32 - 35 Waihi-Whangamata and Beyond . . . . . . . . . . pages 36 - 45 Cruisers . . . . . . . . . . . . pages 46 - 49 For the Adventurous . . . . pages 50 - 53 Girls Trip

. . . . . . . . . . . pages 54 - 57

Hobbiton Movie Set Tours . . . . . . . . . . . pages 58 - 59 About the Hauraki Rail Trail Trust . . . . . . . . pages 60 - 61 Seabird Coast . . . . . . . . pages 62 - 63 Published by: T&T Publishing Limited 27 West Crescent, Te Puru 3575, Ph 07 868 2703 Email: craig@tandtpublishing.co.nz Writer/Photographer: Alison Smith Email: alisonsmith@xtra.co.nz Ph 0226 940 449 Designer: Leanne Penner Email: leannepennermail@gmail.com

Magazine author/photographer Alison Smith on the trail with her children Freeman and Easton.

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of M aters

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• Sit in the Sauna/Spa pool (40°C) and feel the stress melt away • Private thermal mineral spa pools • Toddlers can learn water confidence in their own warm pool • Skills Active Qualified Lifeguards • Hot Food Shop • Shop supplying ice-cream, confectionery, refreshments • BBQ and picnic areas • Children’s Playground & Jumping Pillow • Chair Lift Available • Ample Car Parking Handy to: • Award Winning Miranda Holiday Park • World Class Miranda Shorebird Centre • 3 Golf Courses • Bush Walks • Water Gardens • 20 minutes to Thames • 15 minutes to Ngatea

Ph: 07 867 3055 595 Front Miranda Rd, Waitakaruru, RD6, Thames 3576 Email: info@mirandahotsprings.co.nz www.mirandahotsprings.co.nz HAURAKI RAIL TRAIL | 7

WN RO

8 | HAURAKI RAIL TRAIL

ST RY

L SEA

POL LEN

QU E

T EN S

TO KOPU / AUCKLAND / HAMILTON

E RD

HEA

THE WHARF

TON

ST FEN

Y ST

LIN

HAP

NK FRA CE RRA

JE LL CR ICOE ES RAIL TRAIL to / from Paeroa

ST KAY C A M GRE

ST BY

H UG ILLO

O CHM

ERT

Hauraki Rail Trail Base

T EY S

HOSPITAL

B LAM TON LES RO L

Thames Coastal Cycle/Walkway Wharf to Kuranui Bay (3km return)

SHOPPING / RETAIL / CAFES

TO COROMANDEL PENINSULA

SA S ST NDE

T LE S

T KS S BAN

ON NT

NON

U BR

VER

THAMES

HA UR

TE THE

Karaka Bird Hide

TC E

B ST

L ST IR WA A R PA

HIL

L ST

AK I

ARD EDW

MIL D

THE JUNCTION HOTEL - THAMES

Accommodation Offering a wide range of accommodation options priced from just $28 - $130 per night, the Junction Hotel is the ideal place to start your coromandel experience. We have 17 rooms compromising backpacker dorm rooms, Single, twin, double & family rooms (bed only or ensuite - some with TV). Communal kitchen with TV and free WIFI is also available to our guests. Group rates are available for large bookings & long stays, please enquire. GBD Restaurant The Grahamstown Bar & Diner offers a relaxed dining environment or the ideal meeting place for drinks & nibbles whatever your planning you can be assured of a warm welcome.

We can also host conferences & meetings for up to 50 people in our function room with audio visual facilities, in house PA & full food & beverage catering available. Contact us today to discuss your group requirements. The restaurant is open for lunch & dinner from 11am Monday to Friday, Breakfast from 8.30am weekends Bookings & General Enquiries (07) 8686008 info@thejunction.net.nz - Accommodation gbd@thejunction.net.nz - Restaurant www.thejunction.net.nz - Website HAURAKI RAIL TRAIL | 9

Thames (Parawai) Thames is a crafty town with a must-do Saturday morning market and niche shops providing artisan products from small local producers.

hop for crafted cheeses and yoghurts, homemade Scottish oat cakes, organic produce, spice blends and coffee at The Depot and the Thames Organic Shop in Grahamstown at the northern end of town and restock your supplies at the Cheese Barn in Matatoki, an approximate one hour cycle along the trail to the south. A former gold mining boom town that once produced gold by the tonne, Thames has proudly maintained its heritage buildings and has some of the finest examples in New Zealand. Visit The Treasury, a finely restored 1905 Carnegie Library, and the School of Mines - undoubtedly the best preserved and most authentic example of a School of Mines still open to the public, with tours by historian John Isdale who is a warm, knowledgeable, humorous and enthusiastic guide. At the toe of the bush-clad Coromandel mountain range that runs through the spine of the Peninsula, an operational gold stamper battery and original tunnels can be walked with a guide, and the restored gold stamper battery is noisily fired up at the end of your tour.

Photo: Alison Smith 10 | HAURAKI RAIL TRAIL

Miranda Holiday Park with a full range of accommodation and its own hot mineral pool is a great place to relax and unwind after a hard days bike ride. Hot meals at the cafĂŠ next door and relaxation massage on-site. Only 20mins drive from the beginning of the Hauraki Rail Trail at Kopu. Miranda Holiday Park welcomes you. Call free on: 0800 833 144 Or book online at: www.mirandaholidaypark.co.nz

502 Pollen St Thames 37 Orchard West Rd Ngatea 601 Port Rd Whangamata 25 Seddon St Waihi The offer below is only vaild in these four stores

When you purchase any Subway Sandwich present this add and you will receive a free cookie and a medium drink HAURAKI RAIL TRAIL | 11

Thames (Parawai) continued...

You will need to take your time to really enjoy all that Thames has to offer, with historic walks and museum visits as well as craft shops and great coffee. Start at the northern end alongside the Firth, to cycle the Underfoot Gallery which is a collection of colourful art pieces painted onto the footpath by the sea.

website), drawing groups of cheese enthusiasts and hungry cyclists as well as larger school groups and social clubs by prior arrangement. Adult groups are given a showcase of products, tastings and a talk by cheese maker Kelvin, while schoolchildren find out about how milk is made and what it can be turned into.

A 20 minute drive inland from Thames is Kauaeranga Valley, the best place to seek out campgrounds and bush walks which can be done as daytrips or by venturing further up the Coromandel ranges. The Pinnacles Hut is an architectural masterpiece in simplicity, but be prepared to take everything you’ll need including all sleeping gear, warm clothing and food to stay overnight.

Kelvin makes organic certified cheeses, yoghurt and butter on-site and is the sole worker so you need to book in advance and have a group of 20 or more to get his time. The factory is too small for tours, but sells cheese boards with a variety of organic cheeses such as halloumi, cumin seed gouda, kallarney blue and sundried tomato and basil feta.

The trail from Thames to Paeroa is rural, taking in quiet country roads under a wide blue sky toward a great first stop at the Matatoki Cheese Barn. Owners Kelvin and Cathy Haigh have created a character-filled café with friendly baby farm animals that are always sniffing out a feed of pellets and a pat from visitors. It’s open most days except for a short winter period when it closes Sundays (so check the 12 | HAURAKI RAIL TRAIL

Great food becomes an essential when cycling the rail trail, since the full rail trail takes several days to complete, each featuring different scenery and attractions. If you are returning after the trail to Thames, take a car ride up the Thames Coast north to experience a stretch of Pohutukawa treefringed coastline, meditative and garden retreats like at Rapaura Gardens, and continue your journey around the Peninsula.

tive strategy to store™ 1400 hdcreative.net creative.net 68 Willoughby Road, st, NSW 2065 Australia

THE WHARF

McDonald’s® Paeroa

coffee house & bar

Come and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and fantastic water views

• Only 10m from the trail • Free water bottle refills • Bike stand available

Hours: Monday - Tuesday 9am till 3pm Wednesday - Sunday 9am till late

McDonald’s® Thames

Shortland Wharf, Thames • Ph: 07 868 5828

• Located in Goldfields Shopping Centre 2 minutes from the trail • Free water bottle refills • Bike stand available

LSM4937

Mon - Tue open till 5pm Wed - Thu open till 7pm Fri - Sun open till 8pm

Job#: Job: McCafe Logo Item: CMYK Logo Key#: Date: 25.02.10

Trim size: XXXmm(h) x XXXmm(w)

Colours:

Scale: C

1:1

Note:

eative strategy to store™ In-house approval

ader:

A/Manager:

F/Artist:

Designer:

4937 Paeroa Rail Trail Mag Ad.indd 1

17/03/14 1:45 PM

Traditional Thai massage is an ideal way of reducing all of those aches and pains, creating a sense of relaxation which improves sleep and gives a sense of lightness to the body. Thai massage also improves your circulation, detoxifies internal organs, improves body alignment, increases flexibility and boosts your general energy levels.

Phone: 0273 412 357 721 Pollen Street, Thames Phone: 0273 819 145 24 Kenrick Street, Te Aroha Email: sdansalad@gmail.com

Aromatherapy • Pain Relief • Hot Coconut Oil Massage • Thai Foot Massage HAURAKI RAIL TRAIL | 13

For architecture lovers The Carnegie Library was built in 1905 among numerous Carnegie Libraries created in New Zealand thanks to the generosity of Scottishborn Andrew Carnegie.

nly the second Carnegie Library built in New Zealand, its 5m high studs, pressed metal ceiling tiles, heritage tiles, original gas fittings, fireplaces, ceramic lights, huge sash windows and original skirting boards hark back to a time of grand design and are worth viewing for architecture or heritage enthusiasts. Mr Carnegie channelled his philanthropic energies into creating libraries after being given the opportunity to visit a personal library once a week as a working boy. It instilled in him a love of literature and steered him clear,

Did you know?

he mused, of “low fellowship and bad habits”, introducing him to “the precious treasures of knowledge and imagination through which youth may ascend”.” By the time World War 1 brought an end to Carnegie’s library building programme, he’d given $44 million to create over 1600 free public libraries in the United States and almost 900 more in Great Britain and the British Dominions. By 1914 he had assisted in the construction of 18 library buildings in New Zealand.

The seas, foreshores and inland waterways are of enormous importance to Maori. In Hauraki, the Marutuahu confederation of tribes dominate, and Ureia was the taniwha (creature) who lived in Tikapa (the Firth of Thames). Accounts differ as to the form that he took – some say he was a fish and others say a school of fish – but he was a powerful symbol of the fertility and mana of the Hauraki region. Ureia was killed near the Manukau Harbour and a carving of him is inside the Hotunui meeting house which once stood at Thames and is now a major attraction in the Auckland Museum. These carvings are currently being restored but can still be viewed. – Maori Tribes of New Zealand, Te Ara the Encyclopedia of New Zealand. 14 | HAURAKI RAIL TRAIL

The Thames Coastal Walkway is just beyond the official start to the Hauraki Rail Trail but is well worth exploring for its colourful artworks, views out across the Firth of Thames, and the museums and railway architecture in the area.

BROOKBY MOTEL

Yvonne and Keith Burns welcome you to their slice of paradise. Tucked away in a quiet residential lane Brookby is a quality six-unit motel only a short stroll from central Thames shops, restaurants, cafĂŠs, etc.. Tastefully decorated, exceptionally clean and with all the comforts of home including 50+ Guest Select SKY TV and free Wifi. 102 Redwood Lane, Thames, NZ P/F: 07 868 6663 E: brookbymotel@xtra.co.nz www.brookbymotel.co.nz

Thames Valley Homestay Relax in the heart of the country 8043 State Highway 26, Hikutaia

After a long bike ride, come and enjoy a modern self contained unit with your own ensuite. This is attached to a 100 year old Villa and your own private swimming pool to cool off in. Decking around part of the pool allows for relaxation to read your book or just sit and enjoy the mountains and farmland.

Starting from just $100 per night for a couple, we have very competitive rates so call us now on 07 862 4827, you wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be disappointed.

Your Hosts: Valarie & Jeff Alley HAURAKI RAIL TRAIL | 15

PAEROA

16 | HAURAKI RAIL TRAIL

The Rail Trail Motel Paeroa Caring, Convenient & Comfortable

Free bike lock up and parking • Under new management • 10 refurbished self contained units • Free wifi & sky • Shuttle bus NEW !! • BBQ & relaxation area NEW!! • All units have separate bathrooms • 50m to Rail Trail • Diner next door • Adjacent to kids playground and beautiful park • 30mins to beaches & famous bird watching & chenier plains • 30mins Hot mineral pools • We are central to everywhere you want to be!

PAEROA MOTEL Ph 07 280 2510 2 Puke Road, Paeroa

Email: bookme@paeroamotel.co.nz • www.railtrailmotelpaeroa.co.nz

HAURAKI RAIL TRAIL | 17

Paeroa, Waikino and Karangahake Gorge

Te Paeroa-o-Toi (the long range of Toi)

From Paeroa the trail meanders alongside the Ohinemuri River and leads to historic Karangahake Gorge with the Windows Walk of former mine tunnels providing an alternative gentle form of exercise that’s a highlight of the trail.

he Karangahake Gorge leg of the journey crosses over the Ohinemuri River Bridge 2, past the Ohinemuri Winery and through a 1km Karangahake tunnel, built as part of a crucial road-rail line linking both sides of the gold-rich Coromandel range. The poor blokes who built this tunnel encountered heavy rock, water seepage and numerous slips, and now, 100 years on, it’s all there for the marvelling recreational cyclists and leisure seekers travelling from walks, to wineries and eateries like the Ohinemuri Winery, Bistro at the Falls Retreat and Waikino Station Café. Paeroa is another Coromandel Peninsula town born off the back of gold, with the opening of the Ōhinemuri goldfield in 1875. The first cyanidation plant in the world was established at the Crown Mine at Karangahake, in 1889. By 1892 there were six cyanide plants on the Ohinemuri Goldfield, depositing tailings containing cyanide directly into the Ohinemuri River from various mining operations. Gold extraction greatly increased, and the subsequent boom turned Paeroa into a busy river port with heavy machinery and miners’ supplies arriving by river to Paeroa wharf, and then hauled by horse teams to the mines at Karangahake, Waikino and Waihī. Silting caused by gold mining forced the building of a new wharf at the junction with the Waihou River, and dumping mining debris into the Ōhinemuri also exposed Paeroa to flooding, notably in 1910. 18 | HAURAKI RAIL TRAIL

Photo: Alison Smith

Today the small townships of Karangahake and Waikino are tightknit communities that are passionate about conservation and restoration of the forest and river. A walk to take in the beauty of the Ohinemuri River via the Window’s Walk demonstrates the heartening ability of nature to heal through time. *Te Ara Encyclopedia of New Zealand

Photo: Alison Smith

THE REFINERY GUARd’S COTTAGE & MINER’S CABIN PRIVATE, SELF-CONTAINEd LOdGING IN THE HEART OF PAEROA

FOOD & LODGING

5 WILLOUGHBY ST - PAEROA - NZ - 07 862 7678 - WWW.THE-REFINERY.COM

HAURAKI RAIL TRAIL | 19

Paeroa, Waikino and Karangahake Gorge continued...

Events

Paeroa Wine and Food Festival – March Sample boutique wines, specialty beers and tasty food while listening to live music. To find out more go to: www.paeroa.org.nz

Te Aroha ‘A Day in the Domain’ - March

Time your trip to tie in with ‘A Day in the Domain’, a day Te Aroha locals have been looking forward to every year since 1977. The day attracts artists and performers from far and wide with a variety of stalls and foodies on display. Entertainment is free with competitions and games all day. Visit: www.domainday.co.nz Te Aroha Domain 102 Whitaker St, Te Aroha

Paeroa Vintage and Classic Car Show September

Sip some Devonshire Tea and go back in time at the Paeroa’s Antiques Weekend. Commencing from Saturday with the street parade at 11am kicking it all off. Come along and enjoy the live entertainment, which includes the reenactment of a WWII battle as well as static displays of military vehicles. A good fun weekend where you are encouraged to bring out the best of the past, wear stylish clothes and drive beautiful cars from a bygone era. Visit: www.paeroa.org.nz/events Photo: Paeroa Highland Games & Tattoo

Paeroa Highland Games and Tattoo February

Held at the Paeroa Domain, what started out as a small Pipe Bands Competition has grown over the years, and today is a fully-fledged Highland Games, one of only seven such Scottish gatherings in New Zealand, and the only one in New Zealand to hold an Evening Tattoo. Between 3000-5000 people attend each year, many coming from throughout New Zealand. Visit: www.paeroahighlandgames.co.nz

20 | HAURAKI RAIL TRAIL

The Nugget MultiSport Festival Waihi - May

Waihi and Waihi Beach in the southern Coromandel are the impressive setting for the spectacular Nugget Multisport Festival. You’ll take an unforgettable adventure from Waihi’s charming town centre out to the spectacular harbour and coast at Waihi Beach, before returning via breath-taking trails to the rim of the mighty Martha Mine and the iconic finish line under the shadow of the Cornish Pumphouse in central Waihi. Team and individual options available. www.thenugget.co.nz

PAEROA HOTEL & Stonegrill Restaurant Paeroa’s Happy Pub Move back in time and stay in a Grand old Historic Hotel first licenced in 1898. We are right on the Rail Trail and we have a secure area for your bikes.

Up the magic stair case for a great nights sleep

Clean comfortable accommodation at great prices

We have 21 rooms which can accommodate groups, couples or just singles. All rooms have a basin and clean comfortable beds at old fashioned prices. Being 116 years old the bathrooms are separate. A lounge library and kitchen are available for guests use. The large old verandah on 2 sides of the building are ideal for sitting and watching the world go by while tasting the local beverage or you can just amble downstairs and enjoy the relaxed and friendly atmosphere in our bar which has a full TAB and Pokie room.

A friendly atmosphere in a full bar

Newly renovated Stonegrill & A La Carte Restaurant

Enjoy the atmosphere of our newly renovated STONEGRILL AND A LA CARTE RESTAuRANT.

Enjoy Stongrill dining at it’s best! Steak cooked to perfection every time - because you’re the one doing the cooking! Open from 8am every day for all your dining needs including breakfast, lunch and dinner.

For more information about our great room rates and fantastic menu

Hotel phone: 07 862 7099 • Stonegrill phone 07 862 7033 Email: judyfyoung@gmail.com • 4 Belmont Rd, Paeroa 3600

HAURAKI RAIL TRAIL | 21

Waikino Values Schools are often the heart of small communities, and Waikino School is one of the many small rural schools producing leaders of tomorrow.

ast year the children discussed what values were important to them and what they valued most in the qualities of their friends. At the same time they were studying native New Zealand birds, explains Principal Colin Pilkington-Brodie. “We created characters

based on the way those birds are and the stories written about them in Maori legends. We learned that our NZ birds are seed carriers, they play an important role in our forests, so we decided that each of our birds carries a value, and each value is a seed to water for life.”

Kokako – Never gives up Kaka – Humour and playfulness Kakapo – Working together Karearea – Respect for self & others Korimako – Being true to yourself & others Tui – Caring, supportive and sharing Kiwi – Gets involved and stands up Tieke – Believing in self & others Kotare – Building others up Tauhou - Friendship

During your ride on the trail and visit further afield, why not look out for some of these native birds and think of Waikino children’s values? www.doc.govt.nz for wild life information.

Photo: Alison Smith 22 | HAURAKI RAIL TRAIL

The Depot Garden Cafe DEVONSHIRE TEAS

Tea or Coffee - Scone, Butter, Jam & Cream. We are on the cycleway 8 kms from Paeroa and 14kms from Te Aroha next to Tahuna Road. The attractive gardens feature a large ‘Parterre’ with over 5000 buxus plants. Customers are welcome to stroll around the gardens. Gather some friends together and make this a ‘DESTINATION.’ Opening Hours: 10.00 am – 4.00 pm

Phone: 07 862 8738 Mobile: 021 079 8393

Address: 1685 Paeroa-Tahuna Road Email: thedepotgardencafe@gmail.com

This is the historic site of the original Tirohia Europa Bulk Petrol Depot and it is an ideal place for those who are less mobile as the ground is flat.

Puru Park Motel Te Puru

Situated 15 minutes north of Thames on the scenic Coromandel Coast Puru Park provides modern motel accommodation with a back-drop of bushclad hills and tropical garden setting. With off-street parking and secure bike storage area, a BBQ available for those lazy summer evenings, Puru Park Motel is big enough for special occasions, small enough for a retreat. 2 West Crescent, Te Puru, Thames Telephone: 07-868 2686 or Freephone: 0800 878 999 Email: puruparkmotel@xtra.co.nz Web: www.puruparkmotel.co.nz HAURAKI RAIL TRAIL | 23

One 3 One As you hit the not-so-hustle of Paeroa, coast off the trail to One 3 One, a kitchen, bar and café on the site of the historic Father’s Tavern at 131 Normanby Rd.

wner Jesse Harris-Ellis and pastry chef wife Adele know how to create an atmosphere that appeals to just about everyone, renovating to create quiet dining areas by the fire in winter, a bar with sports channels at the front and events all year round including live acoustic music and quiz nights. A wall of historic photos show Paeroa’s early years as a thriving transport and distribution centre. Although the original Father’s Tavern is gone, the bar and doors at one 3 one feature original rimu timbers from the old pub and give the place a rustic touch to an otherwise spacious and modern interior. Accommodation is being built behind One 3 One and was due to open in late 2015.

24 | HAURAKI RAIL TRAIL

The Paeroa Information Hub... featuring Positive Paeroa, now in the old Post Office Building in the centre of town. Call in or telephone for the absolute and up-to-date information about what’s happening.

Jo Tilsley | T 07 862 6999, 027 330 3170 E enquiries@paeroa.org.nz | www.paeroa.org.nz

The Paeroa Information Hub | Michael Tansey T 07 862 8636 | E pae.info@xtra.co.nz

101 Normanby Road, Paeroa

Restaurant • Cafe • Bar Welcome to One 3 One Bar Kitchen Cafe

In the site of the old Fathers Tavern One 3 One Bar Kitchen Cafe offers style, comfort and a classic menu and wine list with service that is second to none in Paeroa. If your looking for somewhere to go for a casual drink or meal then this is the place for you. With its amazing copper bar and stylish interior it is a great place to spend time. We offer a great range on tap, a wine list to suit all tastes and a menu with a wide selection of amazing food. We frequently have live music and run a quiz night on a Monday from 7pm. We also have a modern stylish gaming room. So if you are stopping in Paeroa there is no place better to go than One 3 One Bar Kitchen Cafe.

We are open from 10am 7 days a week. Restaurant • Cafe • Bar

P: 07 862 7273

131 Normanby Road, Paeroa E: reservationsone3one@gmail.com • W: www.one3one.co.nz HAURAKI RAIL TRAIL | 25

Families

A miraculous thing happened when I took my five-year-old and nineyear-old boys on the Hauraki Rail Trail during the school holidays – they stopped arguing.

t is a seemingly unavoidable challenge for me as a parent of three (my teenage daughter had prior social arrangements so didn’t join us on the trip); That is, how to keep a journey free from the snippety-snipping between siblings. We usually drive what they call a people mover and yet despite the roomy interior, the boys manage to get in each other’s personal space within an hour of any car excursion. So it was joyous to get the kids out of the car and on their bikes, wheeling around the backstreets of Te Aroha. 26 | HAURAKI RAIL TRAIL

Few things re-ignite my maternal spark than offspring encouraging each other, and discovering the joys of a new place with animated banter. This is how it went for us on the trail. No bickering in the backseat, no slappetyslap or whingeing. They were like puppy dogs running freely in a secure backyard of deliciously enticing scents. Both stood up on the pedals of their bikes and raced ahead at a furious pace, as I hollered ‘wait up!’ toward the horizon of bright green farm paddocks dotted only with the occasional milking shed or farm house.

Kumars Something Special

Enjoy excellent service in the friendly surroundings of an authentic Indian restaurant. Try their selection of beautiful food and the fresh naan breads that make an essential addition to the many tasty dishes on the menu.

BIKE HIRE PAEROA Stockists of: Avanti • Scott Raleigh • Bauer and all cycle accessories

Open 11.30am till late 76 Normanby Rd Paeroa

07-862 6800

kumarssomethingspecial@vodafone.co.nz

Arkwrights Antiques

Arkwrights Antiques is a great antiques and collectables shop in Paeroa’s main street. It has something for every collector and it is a must visit when you are in this antique town if you are looking for antique jewellery, silver, metalware, antique china, ceramics, pottery, crown lynn, pewter, glass, vintage clothing, vintage linen, figurines, dolls, toys, books, records, 45s, LPs, tools, kitchenware, antique bottles, prints, bric-a-brac, and curios.

32 Belmont Road, Paeroa Open 7 Days 10:00 - 5:00

Tel: 07 862 6898

Email: vivien.leonard@xtra.co.nz PAEROA ANTIQUE TOWN OF NEW ZEALAND

Paeroa Marine & Cycle Centre Ltd 29 Puke Road, PAEROA

Ph: 07 862 7061

or 0274 950 191 (Gary) Website: www.paeroamarine.co.nz HAURAKI RAIL TRAIL | 27

Families continued... Since learning to ride a bike, my five-year-old boy has always been proficient and travelled for 2hrs without so much as an ‘are we there yet?’. The trail was wide, so there was no need to reign them in when other riders were headed in our direction. Cattle stops presented more of a challenge for me than the kids, who saw them as features to cross at speed.

We stayed in Te Aroha, and their time with mum and dad in a cosy room featuring individually wrapped lollies was a huge hit with my tribe… and I love them all the more for that.

The nine-year-old used his imagination for how cows could navigate over these obstacles (they could wear jandals known as ‘hoovianas’ (family humour). I have been reminded many times by emptynester parents to treasure these years with my young family, and all too often we get caught up in the busy-ness of family life.

Photo: Alison Smith

Photo: Alison Smith 28 | HAURAKI RAIL TRAIL

Racecourse Motel 68 Thames Road, Paeroa

6 studio and 2 family units 5 channel Sky TV Secure bike storage BBQ area

Tariff $80 - $120 (seasonal rates apply 1 Nov - 31 March)

Ph 07 862 7145 racecoursemotel@xtra.co.nz www.racecoursemotel.co.nz

Casa Mexicana Motel

Tariff $89 - $115 (seasonal rates apply 1 Nov - 31 March)

Sky TV all 50 channels Secure bike storage BBQ area Cooking Facilities 3 x large studio and 3 x 1 bedroom units Airconditioning in most rooms

Ph 07 862 8216 71 Puke Road, Paeroa. casa.mexicana@slingshot.co.nz

Located in the centre of Paeroaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s main street Sheltered Courtyard Serving Allpress Coffee Tea Total Teas & Delicious Sweets & Savouries All handmade on site 72 Normanby Rd, Paeroa â&#x20AC;˘ (07) 862 7046

HAURAKI RAIL TRAIL | 29

Things to do for families Miranda Holiday Park and Hot Springs

Goldfields Railway

Please the whole family and soak your troubles away at Miranda Hot Springs in the three thermally heated fresh mineral water pools. The children’s pool is maintained at a cooler temperature while the adult-only sauna pool sits at around 40°C-41°C or you can opt for one of the four private spa pools. Centrally located just off SH2, this is the southern hemisphere’s largest natural hot mineral pool. www.mirandahotsprings.co.nz Front Miranda Road, Miranda. 07 867 3055

Turn back the clock and immerse yourself in the pioneering day’s form of transport. Experience a section of what used to be known as the East Coast Main Trunk Line which stretched from Auckland to Taneatua south of Te Puke. Enjoy an area rich in history, including historic goldmining which shaped much of this part of the Southern Coromandel. www.waihirail.co.nz 30 Wrigley St, Waihi. 07 863 9020

Waihi Beach Top 10 Holiday Park Every kid should have memories of staying in a campground. Located just metres away from the sand dunes of Waihi beach you can stay in a motel, unit or pitch a tent on one of the holiday park’s sites. The camp features a hot pool, hire items, playground among standard holiday park amenities. www.waihibeachtop10.co.nz 15 Beach Road Waihi Beach. 0800 924448

Bullswool Farm Park Pat, feed and observe a range of animals at the Bullswool Farm Park, a favourite visitor destination, nature reserve unique and slice of rural paradise minutes from the famous Karangahake Gorge Walkway. Visit for an hour or an afternoon! From miniature horses to kunekune pigs to sheep and donkeys, you and the kids will love it. www.bullswoolfarm.co.nz 240 Rahu Rd, RD4, Karangahake Gorge, Paeroa. 07 862 8843

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Waihi Gold Discovery Centre and Mine Tours Discover the treasure of interactive education at the Waihi Gold Discovery Centre and Mine Tours. Recently awarded the Best Museum Visitor Experience at the New Zealand Museum Awards 2015, you will certainly be impressed. www.golddiscoverycentre.co.nz 126 Seddon Street, Waihi. 07 863 9015

Mussel Barge Snapper Safaris Take the kids fishing with the team at Mussel Barge Snapper Safaris either for a full or half day charters in and around the mussel farms of Coromandel. The crew offer safe and fun filled adventure for anyone of any age. www.musselbargesafaris.co.nz 07 866 7667

Did you know? •

Love Waihi beach? So did Sir Edmund Hillary, he had a bach here.

•

For the best views in the Waihi Beach area, head from Bowentown Hill over the harbour and towards Athenree, or from Anzac Bay, across the bar to the ocean and along Waihi Beach.

Venturing further… The Waterworks

A 20 minute drive away off The 309 Rd is the quirky kiwi ingenuity of the Waterworks. The café serves fresh homemade food. Continue up the 309 Rd from here to view the magnificent kauri tree on a short walk signposted off the road. www.thewaterworks.co.nz 471, 309 Road, Coromandel Town. 07 866 7191

Events

Thames Heritage Week, Thames - March Focusing on yesteryear with a lineup of events for all. A week of old fashion fun for the whole family. To find out more go to: www.thamesheritage.co.nz

Echo Walking Festival Throughout the Coromandel - April The Echo Walking Festival is about experiencing the fantastic walks that The Coromandel and Kaimai Ranges have to offer, with experienced guides. To find out more go to: www.echowalkfest.org.nz

Keltic Fair, Coromandel Town - January The Keltic Fair on January 2 each year is the biggest market festival in the Southern Hemisphere. One of New Zealand’s most successful fairs and the highlight of The Coromandel holiday season. Enjoy a full day of entertainment, kids rides, food & a world of arts, crafts and great value shopping. To find out more go to www.kelticfair.co.nz

Whangamata Beach Hop, Whangamata & Tairua - March Held in the popular seaside holiday resort of Whangamata, the 5 day festival celebrates the culture, fashion, music, hot rods, motorbikes, dancing, dragsters and scooters of this golden era. The festival has grown from 4,000 to about 100,000 people since its inception in 2001. This makes it one of the largest events of its kind in the world. All proceeds raised are donated to emergency services in the area. Come along and enjoy all the non stop action! To find out more go to: www.beachhop.co.nz

Photo: Alison Smith HAURAKI RAIL TRAIL | 31

Te ArohA

32 | HAURAKI RAIL TRAIL

HAURAKI RAIL TRAIL | 33

Te Aroha Place of love Mount Te Aroha, which sits at 952m high, is the highest point in the Kaimai Mamaku Forest Park and is part of an ancient volcanic chain from 24 to 2 million years ago.

he Department of Conservation records that Te Aroha got its name from Rahiri, the ancestor of Ngati Rahiri Tumutumu, who climbed the mountain and saw his homeland in the distance and felt a sense of love (aroha) for it. The name is often rendered in English as “place of love”. One story tells how the son of Arawa chief, Kahu-Mata-Momoe was on his way home from visiting a kinsman at Kaipara. As was the habit with this explorer, he ascended to the highest point possible along the way. As he stood on top of the mountain, he was overjoyed to see the familiar landmarks of his tribal home he decided to name it “Aroha ki tai – This shall be called the Mountain of Aroha. Herein shall forever repose the great love of Kahu-Mata-Momoe”. The legend continues that in time the spirit of Kahu-Mata-Momoe caused a stream of crystal water to flow from the heart of the mountain. Where the stream emerged there appeared hot springs with healing qualities. A clear pool in the cleft of a rock was known as the “Mirror of Te Mamoe” and became a wishing well for newly married couples.

Photo: Alison Smith 34 | HAURAKI RAIL TRAIL

Why not discover the love in Te Aroha too? The town has a romantic bygone era feel, with delightful old cottages restored lovingly, and natural mineral hot springs fed from deep underground. There is Mokena, the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s only soda water geyser at Te Aroha, which can be viewed by a short walk up the mountain behind the intact Edwardian park at the Hot Springs Domain.

like a Queen Ann Pipe Organ built in 1712, that is the oldest pipe organ in the Southern Hemisphere (recitals by arrangement). Visit the information centre for more.

There are day and overnight hiking trails in the Kaimai-Mamuku Forest Park with the more challenging tramp to the top of Mt Te Aroha, on a clear day affording views all the way across the central north island to Tongariro National Park.

Te Aroha is a place where people sought love, and sought the healthrestoring properties of natural hot mineral water and exercise in the fresh air, and this is still the case with cyclists of the rail trail today. It is a place of old and new. For those who love to look back in order to move forward, antiques are sold alongside fortifyingly good coffee, and there are original contemporary glass art to be hunted out in the town along with treasures

Photo: Alison Smith HAURAKI RAIL TRAIL | 35

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Waikino Tavern

Situated in the Waikino Gorge close to the Battery, Waikino Railway Station and the Hauraki Rail Trail. Just ride over the Swing bridge to the historic Waikino Hotel. It is the perfect place to stop and enjoy a quiet meal with a wine, beer or coffee, full of historic memorabilia this is a great place to take a break or stay the night.

Open Tuesday to Sunday 11.00am till late

Phone: 07 863 8381 8541 State Highway 2, Waikino

www.waikinotavern.co.nz

HAURAKI RAIL TRAIL | 37

Waihi-Whangamata and beyond The Waihi area links the Karangahake Gorge and Waikino to the township of Waihi, Katikati and Waihi Beach to the south, and the Pacific Ocean coastal towns to the north.

ith picturesque Waihi Beach just a 15 minute drive from Waihi, this is truly a bush-to-beach experience loaded with things to see, do and eat! In Waihi, present day mining operations (both open-cast and underground) exist alongside examples of the old methods of gold and silver extraction. It’s a community that was founded on the gold mining industry, adopting the name ‘Waihi - Heart of Gold’ today. Only metres from the centre of Waihi, you can walk right to the edge of the huge open pit gold mine via The Pit Rim Walkway to viewing platforms and a giant dump truck along the walkway that will wow youngsters.

For me it’s the underground source of hot mineral water rather than gold that is just the thing for a cyclist’s muscles, and Athenree Hot Springs & Holiday Park at the southern end of Waihi Beach has two natural mineral pools fed by an underground aquifer 250 metres deep. To the south is the township of Katikati, which sits at the foothills of the Kaimai-Mamaku Forest Park and on the Tauranga Harbour. A food trail at www.katikaticuisine.com highlights the many artisan food producers here, and recommends the Katikati Plant & Produce Market on Fridays for stocking up your picnic hamper. At Waihi Beach, it took me an hour to run through coastal forest to the undeveloped glory of Orokawa Bay where families who had got there first were busy building statues with driftwood and lolling on the white sands. The Top 10 Holiday Park at Waihi is right across the road from the beach. We stayed here and enjoyed great coffee on the spacious and sun-drenched deck of the surf club, which was hosting Flat White café during winter renovations. Whangamata is a sporting paradise with mountain bike trails, bush walks, golf, fishing, safe swimming and a surf break that has honed the skills of some of New Zealand’s best. The vast white sand beach is linked to the main street shops by a network of walkways that give the town a true beach vibe. Rent a retro bike with a basket on the front and stock up on your board shorts at one of the numerous well-stocked surf shops here, or browse the op shops like the St John op shop that help fund worthy charities.

38 | HAURAKI RAIL TRAIL

Most of the surf shops sell and rent boards and some give lessons, while Paddle and Pedal and Surfs SUP Whangamata rents out Stand Up Paddle boards (I’d recommend a guided trip). Talk to owner Chris Coombe or his staff for the local know-how on mountain bike trails in the area. These guys are among local mountain bike club members building tracks for everyone’s enjoyment in the Coromandel Forest Park and Tairua Forest bordering the town. There’s also

short walks and longer hikes at Wentworth Valley, extensively logged for Kauri in the 1880s and then plundered for gold. Details are on www.doc.govt.nz From Whangamata, drive north to the tiny beach communities of Onemana and Opoutere for an even more relaxed pace, before heading to the seaside settlement of Tairua, a perfect base for bush walks, heritage trails and beach exploration.

Quality Accommodation in the Karangahake Gorge

Welcome to Karangahake Gold ‘n Views Cottage B&B.

Stepback back in in time Step timeand andenjoy enjoy • Delicious country • Delicious farefare • Quality espresso and teas • Quality expresso and teas • Old fashioned service with a smile • Old fashion service • Bike Hire with a smile • Bike OPEN 7 DAYS •Hire LICENSED OPENPh 7 DAYS LICENSED 07 863• 8640 Ph 07 863 Karangahake Gorge8640 SH2, Waikino Karangahake Gorge SH2, Waikino Email: waikinocafe@gmail.com www.waikinostationcafe.co.nz www. waikinostationcafe.co.nz

Your hosts Pam and Nigel Blaikie welcome guests to this beautiful, peaceful quiet setting and offer the Karangahake Cottage as self contained accommodation. • Hauraki Rail Trail - Karangahake Gorge • Historic Gold Mining walks /ruins • Restaurants and café • Trout fishing Access is just a few minutes away! When you have enjoyed your day, relax at the Cottage, watch the sunset - you may see a Golden View! See the stars and satellites at night in the summer - awesome! All details including availability calendar on our website. www.goldnviewsbnb.co.nz e: goldnviews@orcon.net.nz P: 0800 023 259

HAURAKI RAIL TRAIL | 39

Did you know?

The Waihi Mine has a history that spans three centuries. John McCombie and Robert Lee first discovered gold on Pukewa (Martha Hill) in 1878. Martha Mine quickly became one of the most important gold mines in the world. By 1952, when the mighty Martha Mine closed, 174,160kg of gold and 1,193,180kg of silver had been extracted. Following the resurgence of the gold mining industry in New Zealand in the late 1970s the new Martha project was the first major hard rock mining operation to be commissioned. Opening in 1987, the open pit was extended in 1997 and an underground operation on the outskirts of town also began operation in 2006. The company conducts regular tours of the site and runs curriculum-linked educational programmes. Check at the Waihi Information Centre for details.

40 | HAURAKI RAIL TRAIL

Perfect place to dine along the Rail Trail Award winning food & great wines Indoor/outdoor dining in a beautiful setting Open for lunch and dinner Accommodation available The Falls Retreat, 25 Waitawheta Road, Opposite Owharoa Falls, RD2, Waihi

Bistro 07 863 8770 | Accommodation/Office 07 212 8087 Email enquiries to info@fallsretreat.co.nz | www.fallsretreat.co.nz

VICTORIA BATTERY MINE RAILWAY and MUSEUM

Historic gold extraction battery site for Martha Mine. Displays, underground tunnel tours, and tramway rides. SH2 Waikino

Special trips by arrangement for groups. Times table subject to change without notice

Open 10am to 3pm Wed & Sun Ph: 027 351 8980 Bookings: info@vbts.org.nz www.vbts.org.nz

Walkway Entrance

Heritage Walkway Bridge Tunnel Historic Quartz Crushing Battery Site

www.waihirail.co.nz

Waikino WAIKINO HOTEL

Karangahake 1

RAIL

WAY T

2 VICTORIA BATTERY MINING RAILWAY RUINS & KILNS

UNN

EL KAR ANG A H A K E

Food & Accomodation Tourist attraction

Every weekend, school holidays and public hoildays DEPARTS Waihi DEPARTS Waikino 10:00am 11:00am 11:45am 1:00pm 1:45pm 2:30pm During school term we run one train daily Monday to Friday DEPARTS Waihi DEPARTS Waikino 11:45am 1:00pm

Waitawhet a R iver

O R GE H I S T

OWHAROA FALLS ORI

CW A L K WAY

FALLS RETREAT

WAIKINO RAILWAY STATION CAFE AND VISITOR CENTRE

Oh i ne mu ri R

GOLDFIELDS RAILWAY

iver

WHETA R OA WAITA D

RA H U

30 Wrigley Street, Waihi 07 863 9020 email: goldfieldsrailway@xtra.co.nz

Ohi nemuri R i ver SYMBOL KEY

e Rail His rienc tor e p

HAURAKI RAIL TRAIL | 41

where the real gold lies The Waihi Arts Centre & Museum was set up in 1962 in what was at that time, a vacant building which had previously been the Technical School where pupils from around the district came to learn cooking and woodwork. The community funded the building of the school, and now the Hauraki District Council is the owner.

When the setting up of a Museum was mooted, the council of the day apparently felt that an art gallery was a good idea, but didn’t think Waihi needed a museum as people were not interested in the history of the town. Today,after 53 years in operation, the focus is on the collection, preservation and display of items associated with historic goldmining in the district from the 1890’s top 1950’s. We hold many paper archives, photographs, maps, paintings and memorabilia that have been collected or donated over the years. On display are some wonderful original models of the Pumphouse, the town, and the Waikino Battery as they used to be back in the day. Our minerals collection is a sparkling reminder of what lies beneath. 42 | HAURAKI RAIL TRAIL

The Akrad and PYE display shows items from the era when the production of radios and TV’s was a major industry in the town. Our family history research team deals with requests from people wanting to trace their relatives. We have volunteers who work on a range of projects which include indexing early Martha Mine wage books, archiving old files, inputting data to the Past Perfect system of data storage, and working with school groups when they visit. The work is ongoing and new volunteers are always welcome. The Summer Exhibition in the Lee-Johnson Gallery will include local art and craft from around the region. The Museum and Gallery will be open every day in January 2016. For other information please check our website waihimuseum.co.nz

Waitete Restaurant & Cafe

Experience fine dining and enjoy our cuisine made with fresh produce, locally sourced where possible. Delicious homemade Ice Cream. We have a menu to satisfy all tastes and are fully licensed.

Open 7 Days including Public Holidays Lunch 11am - 3pm • Dinner 6pm to late All menus available on our website

07 863 8980

info@waitete.co.nz • www.waitete.co.nz 31 Orchard Road, Waihi

just 5 mins from the Waihi Railway Station

We cater for all your requirements in a unique setting with our fantastically appointed fully self contained Tourist Flats and Log Cabins. We also offer Campervan & Caravan Sites Colonial Cabins • Cedar Cabins • Backpacker Units • Tent Sites

For more information on what we have to offer visit our website: www.waihimotorcamp.co.nz or email gloria@waihimotorcamp.co.nz • Tel 07 863 7654 • Fax 07 863 6759 6 Waitete Road, Waihi • Located 2 minutes from the centre of Waihi, just off Sate Highway 2 Just minutes from Goldfields Railway Station, Waihi Beach & Karangahake Gorge While you are here take the time to wander the grounds, visit the trout stream & duck ponds or just enjoy the tranquility of our place HAURAKI RAIL TRAIL | 43

hether it's exploring our gold mining heritage and the modern mine, getting out in to the magniﬁcent bush-clad hills of the Karangahake Gorge, or just relaxing on the beautiful white sand of Waihi Beach, the Waihi region is a great place to experience real New Zealand. Explore Waihi’s charming town centre and you’ll ﬁnd many windows into our pioneering past in today's pleasant setting.

Gold Fever It was the quest for gold that ﬁrst brought people to Waihi in numbers. In 1878 gold-bearing quartz was discovered on Pukewa spur. A decade later, Waihi was the fastest growing town in the Auckland Province with a population three times that of Hamilton. The mighty Martha Mine quickly became one of the most important gold mines in the world. Today, Waihi's huge working open pit gold mine is only metres from the centre of town. And you can walk right to the edge and stare hundreds of meters down into the chasm.

You can also discover our intriguing stories and ﬁnd out about the great range of activities here by visiting the new Waihi i-SITE and the award-winning Gold Discovery Centre.

Waihi's Walking and Cycling Trails

Take a Break

If you're wanting a spectacular, 'must see' walk or ride to compliment your Hauraki Rail Trail experience, then the Pit Rim Walkway is perfect. The walkway begins opposite the Waihi i-SITE, in

What better way to round oﬀ your Rail Trail day than to sit and relax with good coﬀee, good food and good friends in Waihi’s town centre.

Extend your Hauraki Rail Trail ride by exploring Waihi’s local mountain biking and walking trails. We have something for everyone. Martha Mine Pit Rim Walkway and Cycleway

The Cornish Pumphouse This Waihi icon stands as a photogenic landmark at the top of Waihi’s main street. It is a relic from the historic Martha Mine, and is the only concrete Cornish Pumphouse in the Southern Hemisphere. In 2006, as modern mining expanded, the 2000 tonne Category 1 heritage building was moved 300m west from its original location to its current home.

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the shadow of the Cornish Pumphouse, and rises gently to the edge of the gold mine for your first glimpse in to the open pit. The wide gravel path continues clockwise around the western end of the mine to the highest point on the north wall. Interpretative signs give interesting facts about Martha Mine and the view from the top of the north wall is simply awesome. The 4 km loop track brings you back to the i-SITE via interesting heritage features and scenic park-land. Union Hill Heritage Walkway and Mill Stream Walkway The Union Hill Heritage Walkway can be accessed from the Pit Rim Walkway or off SH 25 (Barry Road). This short trail leads cyclists and walkers through the historic Waihi Battery site where Pit Rim Walkway you’ll find yourself surrounded by a fascinating collection of fascinating historic mining features. The trail can be done as a short loop, returning via the Mill Stream Walkway, or used as a link between the Pit Rim Walkway and Gilmour Lake or the Black Hill MTB/walking trails. Gilmour Lake and Black Hill MTB Trails After feeding the ducks, walking the loop track or enjoying the playground at Gilmour Lake, take a peaceful walk or cycle upstream along the banks of the Ohinemuri River. The 5 km riverbank loop track leads you around Black Hill through native bush, farm land and hundred year old oaks. But if it’s a more ‘hard-core’ mountain bike experience you’re after, then the Black Hill Track ‘Riverbank Terrace’ offers that too. At the end of Clarke Street, cross the stile to your left and follow the yellow markers for 10 km of sweet single track action through pine forest and native bush that will really get your heart pumping.

• Transport • Sightseeing • Accommodation • Travel Planning • Bookings, and • Friendly advice HAURAKI RAIL TRAIL | 45

Cruisers One of the beautiful things about being on holiday is having the time to stop and explore the backroads, museums and markets - punctuating the day with an itinerary that revolves around the appetite.

y friend Claire and I started our trip at Grahamstown in Thames, buoyed about tackling the long (and easy) trail ahead on newly-hired electric bikes. It was a Saturday, and the Thames Market was in full swing. Juggling a takeout flat white in one hand and the handlebars of the bike in the other, I soon found a bike rack so I could do some serious browsing. Pastries were the first thing to catch the eye, disappearing quickly from the brown paper bag while the other more substantial sundried tomato-olive-and-herb cheese bread got stuffed into the backpack for later. The Hauraki Rail Trail passes many eateries offering a range of food, from the artisan producers serving homegrown local produce to award-winning chefs serving nature’s bounty with a touch of the master. But the cyclist can never be too prepared. Thames Market and Grahamstown shops are a treasure trove of craftiness, and Claire disappeared into one of the shops, emerging with tales from the owner about Crown Lynn pottery artists leaving their mark on their designs. Meanwhile I’d been transfixed by the sound of a busker who I thought was Neil Diamond (it wasn’t), and lingered at the craft stalls to speak with the people that knitted, painted, potted and grew their colourful offerings. Unfortunately (or fortunately) for me the backpack and side carry bags of a bicycle don’t provide a huge amount of space for retail therapy, so Claire and I buzzed off to the coast 5 minutes’ cycle away where a community art project has livened up the coastal cycleway/ walkway with paintings known as the Underfoot Gallery. 46 | HAURAKI RAIL TRAIL

This is where we found the Thames School of Mines and Mineralogical Museum, whereupon we wheeled our bikes inside at the invitation of celebrated local historian John Isdale. The School of Mines opened in 1886 as one of about 30 such schools to stimulate economic growth in New Zealand. I cannot say that to walk inside is like stepping back in time, because I’m not aged over 100. This building is nationally significant as a rare and best example of a School of Mines still open to the public. Very few Schools of Mines buildings survive in New Zealand and, of these, the Thames complex is undoubtedly the best preserved and most authentic – draughty interior and scratched-on kauri wood desks included. We were like putty in John’s hands, as he enthusiastically toured us through the buildings, explaining goldmining processes and tools, pointing out the detail of historical treasures and offering anecdotes about the men who made themselves billioniares through the Thames gold boom years.

The Log Cabin Logo etc

It was difficult to leave, but we eventually got back on the trail, realising we’d spent a good couple of hours in this part of Thames and hadn’t even reached the official start of the rail trail yet! For more exploration along the rail trail of the Coromandel’s rich gold mining history, the Waikino section of the trail is a must-see. For a modern day comparison, visit the Waihi Gold Discovery Centre - a highly interactive ‘new-age’ visitor experience that won the recent Museums Aotearoa “Best Visitor Experience” award.

Self-Catered Accommodation in a stunning native bush setting only 20 minutes from Waihi Beach.

www.thelogcabin.co.nz 0800 LOGCAB (564222)

2 Parry Palm Avenue, Waihi 07 863 8461 stay@palmmotelwaihi.co.nz Only 300 metres from the Hauraki Rail Trail 7 studios and 3x1 bdrm Pool, BBQ, WIFI, bike storage, playground www.palmmotelwaihi.co.nz

Tariff $90-$175 Seasonal

rates apply

Quiet, off-street setting

Family friendly Our range of modern, spacious air conditioned and centrally heated comfortable units will cater for all your requirements. Our quiet, offroad setting is well away from busy SH2, but still only 500ms to the town centre restaurants & cafes. Good WiFi access available. Hauraki Rail Trail terminus 2mins ride; Waihi Beach 12kms, Karangahake Walkways 12 kms

Phone: 07 863 7111 6 Victoria St, Waihi 3610 Email: goldminemotel@clear.net.nz www.goldminemotel.co.nz

HAURAKI RAIL TRAIL | 47

Hauraki Rail Trail Cruisers Itinerary Bularangi Fly Fishing Take some time out to chase brown and rainbow trout along some of the Coromandelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s spectacular rivers; with exclusive 4WD access on Department of Conservation areas, your hosts Baz and Ali Howie know where and when the trout are hungry. Ohinemuri, Waitawheta, Komata, Hikuataia or Tairua are just some of the rivers Bularangi Fly Fishing can take you to with no one else around. Fly Fishing season runs primarily from October to April in the warm summer months. www.bularangi.com/fly-fishing 0800 787980

Jolly Electric Bikes Just coast along the coast and absorb the experience even more with an electric bike supplied by Jolly Electric Bikes. Gain more ground and explore the Hauraki Trail in style. www.jollybikes.co.nz 309 Mary Street, Thames. 021 0816 5000

Owharoa Falls, Karangahake Gorge Take some time out at the Owharoa Falls, a staircase waterfall nestled in the heart of the Karangahake Gorge. Ideal for a picnic stop and swimming spot while doing the Hauraki Rail Trail.

GoldFields Railway Turn back the clock and immerse yourself in the pioneering dayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s main form of transport. Experience a section of what used to be known as the East Coast Main Trunk Line which stretched from Auckland to Taneatua south of Te Puke. Enjoy an area rich in history, including historic gold mining which shaped much of this part of the Southern Coromandel. www.waihirail.co.nz 30 Wrigley St, Waihi. 07 863 9020

48 | HAURAKI RAIL TRAIL

Did you Know? •

Te Aroha was officially born with the opening of the Waiorongomai Goldfields in 1880, followed by the gifting to the Crown of the hot springs and surrounding land by local Maori Chief, Te Mokena Hau in 1882. Te Aroha Domain was planted out and promoted in the fashion of the European Spas. The word ‘Spa’ – Salus per Aquam or healing through waters, refers to the therapeutic benefits of mineral water bathing and drinking.

•

The Thames branch railway connecting the town with Hamilton was opened in 1898 and was closed in 1991. It now provides part of the course for the Hauraki Rail Trail.

•

Thames Hospital is the oldest still operating in New Zealand, built in the 1860s.

•

The fascinating Paeroa Museum houses the Southern Hemisphere’s largest collection of Royal Doulton, The Historical Maritime Park and Museum is filled with material about local and national maritime history.

HAURAKI RAIL TRAIL | 49

For the adventurous Ok Queenstown may hold the country’s reputation for adrenaline activities in the mountains, but there are few places like the Coromandel and Hauraki for sheer diversity of adventure landscape potential.

ere in our patch you can fish, surf, freedive, hike and hunt, mountain bike, descend down cliff faces and find a natural mineral hot pool to soothe your weary muscles at the end of the day. It’s one thing to gaze upon the bush-clad spine of the Coromandel, but real adventurous spirits like to get amongst it, we know. Experience the epitome of adventure with a canyon trip through the dramatic Kauaeranga Valley with the team at Canyonz. The Sleeping God canyon tour is a vertical descent of over 300m down a steep set of waterfalls involving abseils/rappels of up to 80m, exhilarating water slides and jumps as high as 14 metres into deep dark pools which are guaranteed to thrill the most intrepid explorer. As a cyclist, if mountain biking is your thing the Thames Mountain Bike Club has carved a track from old gold mining country in the hills behind Thames and this is worth the short diversion at the start or end of the Hauraki

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Rail Trail. Based on historic sled trails used from the 1860s to transport ore to gold stamper batteries in the hills, the land is located 10 minutes’ ride from town and was designed for XC riders with additional facilities for families like a mini pump track and a cute little circuit for Under 5 chargers named ‘the Hundred Acre Wood’. The first half of the track has long flowing straights; the second half is a variety of berms and is more technical. In Whangamata and Waihi there are more mountain bike trails to explore in the forest just outside of town, permits are available through the information centre. And while you are on the coast, a kayak or Stand Up Paddle board out to the offshore islands of Whangamata will turn this sport into an adventure. Chris Coombe at Whangamata Cycle & Outdoor/SurfSUP has boards for hire and a waterbased treasure hunt set up to give you direction.

Did you Know?

200 years ago the Coromandel was swathed in kauri forest, sadly exploited during the saw milling boom. Today only one percent of the original kauri forest remain, and these are under threat from kauri dieback disease, www.kauridieback.co.nz. Local trust Kauri2000 has helped re-establish kauri forests with over 36,000 kauri planted since 2000, and volunteers of the Coromandel Kauri Dieback Forum are protecting the kauri. To donate to kauri 2000 go to www. kauri2000.co.nz and remember to always clean soil from your shoes and bike tyres before and after entering kauri forest, to protect Coromandel kauri. Kauri logs being transported by steam train in the Kauaeranga Valley near Thames, photo: Mercury Bay Museum.

• • •

SURFING LESSONS STAND UP PADDLE BOARD LESSONS BOARD HIRE

ALL EQUIPMENT PROVIDED PHONE AIDAN COMRIE

027 245 8593 aidan@beachsurfschool.co.nz

www.beachsurfschool.co.nz HAURAKI RAIL TRAIL | 51

For the adventurous continued...

Adventurer’s Itinerary Sleeping God Canyon

Challenge yourself in one of New Zealand’s most amazing locations, abseiling, jumping and zip-lining down crashing waterfalls. www.canyonnz.co.nz 0800 4CANYONZ

Surfing and SUP Tours Whangamata is a great spot to experience Stand Up Paddle Boarding, with its untouched white sandy beaches, surf, islands and a multitude of marine life, Whangamata is host to some of the best water adventures. www.surfsupwhangamata.com 703 Port Road, Whangamata, 07 865 8096

Hotoritori MTB Trail, Kauaeranga Valley The Hotoritori MTB Trail is located in the Kauaeranga Valley. This is an intermediate grade ride on 4 x 4 gravel tracks, native forest and pine forest tracks and streams. Follow the Kauaeranga Valley Road from Thames for 14 km to the visitor centre. Hotoriori is the first campground on the left, 3 km north of the visitor centre. Entry is at forest gate beyond the Hotoritori campsite and you follow the trail signs in an anti-clockwise direction.

Bularangi Harley Tours Experience true freedom on the back of a Harley Davidson winding along the Coromandel’s twisty tar roads. Tours or motorbike rentals available. www.motorbikesnz.co.nz 0800 78 79 80

The Refinery Paeroa Stop for a bite to eat and delicious brew of coffee at The Refinery, Paeroa which was once the National Bank Gold Refinery in 1914. Owners Nicky and Mike They have created a warm and welcoming atmosphere for locals and travellers alike. The cafe serves Mt Atkinson Coffee, grilled sandwiches and home baked goodies and the menu is expanding all the time. The emphasis is on quality ingredients bought locally and prepared simply. www.the-refinery.co.nz 5 Willoughby Street, Paeroa, 07 862 7678

The Pinnacles If you’re on a budget and want a good hike, try one of the Coromandel’s most famous walks; The Pinnacles. The Kauaeranga Kauri Trail traverses steep and rugged country to the summit of the Pinnacles (759 metres). Here there are spectacular views of the bush, mountains and coastline of the eastern Coromandel. Time: 2 hr 30 min - 3 hr one way. Distance: 6 km

Photo: Alison Smith 52 | HAURAKI RAIL TRAIL

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Come & relax by our beautiful beach with a hot spa and an accommodation option to suit We are only 10 minutes drive from Waihi Town. Our spa pool is hot and ready for you to enjoy! We have a range of accommodation to suit every budget including the only 4.5 star Qualmark rated motel units at the beach! Come and surprise yourself at Waihi Beach TOP 10 Holiday Resort.

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Girls Trip A trip away with the family or the hubby is always a welcome break in my life, but going away on a trip with a good group of girlfriends leaves me giggling about the memories for weeks. The great thing about going away on a girls’ trip is that – for lazy people like me - there will always be at least a couple of women friends who just love to take it upon themselves to organise things. Even if that’s not the case in your gathered group, the Hauraki Rail Trail website and team make the job easy, from bike hire to accommodation bookings to transport if you want to start at one side of the Peninsula and cycle in one direction only.

For me the best kind of trip away with the girls combines exercise in the fresh air with a few other favourites; shopping, pampering and wine. We found all of these things on the Hauraki rail trail in every town we rode through. Pampering included soaking in mineral hot springs (options in Te Aroha and Waihi) and massages which are just so…well… deserved. For shopping there were markets, art exhibitions, antique and retro second hand dealers alongside craft shops and artisan food outlets, and for the wine – the Ohinemuri Winery on our ride through the Karangahake Gorge was a must-stop prior to tackling the 1km tunnel for which we needed a little fortitude. In Waikino the Waikino Station Café served a fabulously strong flat white coffee and, I learned, if you time it right there are art exhibitions at certain times of the year such as Labour Weekend when you can browse artworks and speak to the artists in person. 54 | HAURAKI RAIL TRAIL

Waihi Beach offers another tranquil escape on the coast at the end of the journey, with a brisk walk to secluded Orokawa Bay as our ending to the trip. For those wanting to tag along on a preorganised and extremely sociable ride with other women, the Frocks on Bikes event organised by Sport Waikato is a great way to meet new people and have fun dressing up and cycling the trail, with prizes to be won – www.sportwaikato.org.nz to enquire.

The Frocks on Bikes event organised by Sport Waikato is a great way to meet new people and have fun dressing up and cycling the trail, with prizes to be won.

WAIHI BEACH

BEACHAVEN KIWI HOLIDAY PARK

Recharge your batteries with us... Experience the classic Kiwi beach holiday in our refurbished Cabins, motels, pet friendly lodges or powered campsites. Great Rail Trail deals are available on our website. Bike storage available!

Free Shuttles Available

WE ARE HERE

21 Leo Street Waihi Beach info@beachaven.co.nz

Phone for Reservations: 07 863 5505 www.beachaven.co.nz

HAURAKI RAIL TRAIL | 55

Girls Trip continued...

Girl’s Trip Itinerary

Ohinemuri Winery and Restaurant

Waihi Waterlillie Gardens

To experience tranquility, look no further than the Ohinemuri Winery. Nestled high above the Ohinemuri River soak in the scenery with a glass of wine (or two) during or after your rail trail experience. www.ohinemuri.co.nz Moresby St, Karangahake, RD4, Paeroa, 07 862 8874

Explore fifteen enchanting acres of gardens, ponds and established park-like grounds just 5 minutes from Waihi and historic bushwalks of the Karangahake Gorge, and 10 minutes from Waihi Beach. Established in 1950, giant flora canopies natural meandering waterways. More than 50 varieties of waterlily delicately adorn the ponds and lake. Licensed Garden Cafe offers delightful coffee and fabulously fresh food, lovingly prepared on site. Linger longer in one of two self-contained Luxury Garden Cottages; privately set within this unforgettable environment. www.waterlilly.co.nz 441 Pukekauri Rd, Waihi, 07 863 8267

Bistro at The Falls Retreat Local NZ Beef & Lamb Ambassador Chef Brad King from Bistro at the Falls Retreat came up trumps at the recent NZ Great Food Show at Mystery Creek in Hamilton, where he had 20 minutes to create a dish in front of a live audience. www.fallsretreat.co.nz 25 Waitawheta Rd, 07 863 8770

Venture Further… Rangihau Ranch

Te Aroha Mineral Spa

End a day of cycling with a muscle easing soak at the Te Aroha Mineral Spa. The silky soda spa’s water is sourced from a natural spring beneath the Te Aroha domain and the bathhouse is set around the mountain and pristine parks, taking you back to Victoria times. Massage and beauty clinic on site to spoil yourself. www.tearohamineralspas.co.nz Te Aroha Domain (off Boundary St), 07 884 8717

Pamper Me Massage is essential if you are on an active holiday with the girls, and the team at Pamper Me in Thames or Classic Thai Massage in either Thames or Te Aroha will revive those muscles with techniques to improve circulation, flexibility and ease any tension. www.pamper-me.co.nz Phone: 07 868 7058 For Classic Thai Massage Thames Phone: 0273 412 357 Te Aroha Phone: 0273 819 145 24 56 | HAURAKI RAIL TRAIL

Get the girls together for a horse ride among the picturesque bush-clad hills and valleys of Coroglen. There are a range of tracks to suit abilities taking in native bush, open pasture, hill country and some spectacular scenery out across the Coromandel Peninsula. www.rangihauranch.co.nz 111 Rangihau Road, Coroglen, 07 866 3875

The Lost Spring If you and the girls wish to venture out and experience the scenic eastern board of the peninsula reward your efforts with immersing yourself in the 32-40 degree naturally mineralised spring waters at The Lost Spring. Situated in the heart of Whitianga, relax in naturally mineralised spring waters drawn from 667 metres below the earth’s surface, aged by GNS Science as being not less than 16,000 years old. www.thelostspring.co.nz 121A Cook Drive, Whitianga, 07 866 0456

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Did you know?

Famous Ceramics and Pottery brand Crown Lynn sourced its clay from kaolinite deposits in the Coromandel Peninsula during the late 1960s and early 1970s. If you love Crown Lynn head to Paeroa to hunt out the many secondhand shops, or Grahamstown in Thames to Pete’s Collectables Crown Lynn - a fascinating range of Crown Lynn tableware and pottery.

Located in Moewai Rd, 2 km from Whitianga township This FREE park developed by Whitianga Bike Club offers 11 km of single track mountain bike trail in grades beginners to advanced. Some trails are in bush others in pasture with sheep. Bridges and by-passes with trail signage are there. Also a BMX Track, Pump track, Kiddies board track, dirt track an elevated skill zone. The picnic area has BBQ, toilet, water drinking fountain, boules court, and Frisbee area.

Enquiries to Ph 07 866 5115 www.whitiangabikeclub.co.nz HAURAKI RAIL TRAIL | 57

Movie Set tourS

The Hobbiton™ Movie Set tour is a visitor experience based at the original location where Hobbiton™ was created for the filming of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films. It offers an interesting and entertaining experience incorporating the famous film set and a special insight into rural life.

ee how this beautiful piece of Waikato farmland was transformed into the Shire™ from Middle-earth™. Your tour starts with a drive through the 1,250 acre sheep farm with spectacular views across to the Kaimai Ranges. Your guide escorts you through the 12 acre site, recounting fascinating details of how Hobbiton Movie Set was created. View Hobbit Holes™, the Green Dragon™ Inn, the Mill and other structures. Specially brewed beverages

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are available at the Green Dragon Inn as your complete your tour. After your tour, your host will return you to Shire’s Rest™ Cafe and The Shire Store where you can purchase souvenirs. Tours leave daily from Shire’s Rest™ Cafe, or Matamata and Rotorua Information Centres. Or you could take the opportunity to experience the beauty of Hobbiton Movie Set at dusk, with a guided evening dinner tour.

Your guide escorts you through the site, recounting fascinating details on how the movie set was created. The tour cumulates at the Green Dragonâ&#x201E;˘ with a complimentary beverage from our exclusive Hobbit Southfarthingâ&#x201E;˘ range. Guests then move into the Green Dragon dining room and are treated to a banquet feast fit for a Hobbit. To conclude this premium experience, after dinner, guests rejoin their guide to make their way back through the wandering paths of the Shire. Trails are illuminated by path lighting and each guest receives an authentic handheld lantern to light the way. This stunning journey under moonlight travels through the village breathtakingly lit up with Hobbit Hole chimneys smoking and lanterns. Tours operate every Wednesday and are limited to 48 people. Bookings are essential and must be confirmed by the Hobbiton reservations team.

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Hauraki Rail Trail Charitable Trust Management of the Rail Trail The Hauraki Rail Trail Charitable Trust has been set up by the three participating Councils to take over responsibility for the Rail Trail. The three partner Councils are: Hauraki, Matamata-Piako and Thames-Coromandel District Councils. The Councils decided that the operation, management, marketing and further development of the Rail Trail would best be governed by an independent not for profit Trust with Trustees with the appropriate skills and experience to run this type of commercial tourism operation. Furthermore, it was determined that the Trust should be registered as a Charitable Trust as much of their focus will be on obtaining funds for the further development and expansion of the Rail Trail.

The Hauraki Rail Trail Charitable Trust The Charitable Trust is made up of six Trustees, three appointed by the Councils (one each) and three Iwi Trustees. The first meeting of the Trust was held on 1 May 2012. The Trustees are selected according to their skills and experience, i.e. business/tourism experience, understanding of governance issues and of tikanga Maori.

The responsibilities of the Hauraki Rail Trail Charitable Trust The Trust is responsible for the development, management, operation and the promotion of the Hauraki Rail Trail and its facilities and obtaining the necessary funding to do this. Specific responsibilities of the Trust include: • Developing and maintaining a website for the purpose of promoting the Hauraki Rail Trail.

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• Granting and managing concessions to any commercial users of the Hauraki Rail Trail. • Managing the Hauraki Rail Trail brand. • Obtaining funding to develop and construct extensions to the Hauraki Rail Trail such as the Kaiaua to Kopu section. • Overseeing internet protocol, such as website addresses. • In undertaking its responsibilities, the Trust must take reasonable steps to protect any areas of spiritual and cultural significance to mana whenua.

The work of the Hauraki Rail Trail Charitable Trust Since its official opening in 2012, the Trust continues to work on improving the Hauraki Rail Trail as both a local resource for local communities as well as a tourist destination in its own right. The Trust works with a raft of stakeholders, including the three participating District Councils and the Department of Conservation, as well as local businesses and community groups.

Roles and Responsibilities of the Hauraki Rail Trail Charitable Trust • • • •

Governance and administration. Trail promotion and future development. Trail maintenance (to Grade 1 standard). Stakeholder relationships and communication. • Financial management and funding.

Questions and Answers Can anyone use the Rail Trail? Anyone can use the Rail Trail for private recreational use. There is no charge for such users and all parts of the Rail Trail are available.

Do commercial operators have to get permission from the Trust to be associated with the Rail Trail? Any commercial operator who wants to advertise on the web page, have bookings taken through the Rail Trail booking system or use the branding associated with the Hauraki Rail Trail must enter into a Partnership Agreement with the Trust. If a person wants to run a commercial operation that directly uses the Rail Trail, such as bike hire or guided tours, they will need to get a concession from the Trust, similar to the concessions that are required to undertake commercial operations on the Department of Conservation estate.

What will a concession cost and how do you apply for one? Applications for concessions will need to be made to the Hauraki Rail Trail Charitable Trust who will consider each application on its merit. There is an initial set up fee which covers the cost of putting the commercial operatorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s details on the website and booking system. Apart from that there is no ongoing annual fee but bookings will need to be through the Trustâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s website and a commission of 15% will be taken on all bookings for activities associated with the Rail Trail. Further details can be found on the official Hauraki Rail Trail website www.haurakirailtrail.co.nz/

How can accommodation providers partner with the Rail Trail and what do they pay? Accommodation providers wishing to be associated with the Trail and use its branding will be required to make use of the web booking system as part of its partnership agreement with the Trust. Any bookings made through the booking system will attract the 15% commission. To ensure the sustainable funding of the Rail Trail any bookings made by users of the Rail Trail will be put through the booking system.

What is the Rail Trail branding? The Hauraki Rail Trail is part of Great Rides New Zealand and carries the prestigious Nga Haeranga New Zealand Cycle Trails branding. In addition to this the Hauraki Rail Trail has its own branding. A business that carries these brands will be recognisable and have extensive local and national exposure. The Hauraki Rail Trail logo has been trademarked. Businesses will be able to use this branding provided they pay the appropriate fee and meet some minimum standards. The Trust is responsible for growing the Rail Trail brand nationally and internationally.

Hauraki Rail Trail Charitable Trust P O Box 46 Ngatea 3503 haurakirailtrail@gmail.com haurakirailtrail.co.nz

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Seabird Coast Future rail trail plans; Auckland direct! The future section of the Hauraki Rail Trail will link Auckland to the Coromandel via the seabird coast and we hope you’ll return to enjoy it. There is so much to do and no better way to transport yourself from city life than on the quiet alternative to the busy highway from Auckland. Stop for a feed of award winning fish ‘n’ chips on the seabird coast, or enjoy coffee at a quaint orchard shop on the Miranda Rd, explore pottery and crafts in Kaiaua, swim the bays and walk or camp at the Regional Park at Tapapakainga, before relaxing in the natural thermal hot springs at Miranda.

The Miranda Shorebird Centre hosts 50,000 visitors a year wanting to learn more about the internationally important wetlands of the area, with a shellbank wader roosting habitat that is a must-see for bird lovers. There’s also fishing and beautiful views of the Firth and Coromandel Ranges for those willing to slow down and enjoy the ride. Off the main highway after the turnoff from the coast, you’ll find Ngatea, a small rural town beside the Piako River. This is another great rural New Zealand community waiting to welcome cyclists on the Hauraki Rail Trail.

The Kaiaua to Kopu (K2K) section of the Hauraki Rail Trail project is currently in a bit of a holding pattern as the project looks to secure the additional funding required to cover the construction side of the project, but much is being done in preparation. A cycle route has been identified with tremendous support from landowners, Waikato Regional Council and the Department of Conservation (DOC) in identifying a route that works within their parameters and meets the needs of cyclists – especially through the unique and ecologically important area of Seabird Coast.

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Photo: Alison Smith

Did you know?

Every year some 90,000 bar-tailed godwits make an extraordinary journey from Alaska to New Zealand for the summer, to relax and fatten up before returning home to breed. One of them, E7, holds the current world record for the longest flight recorded by a bird, 11,760km non-stop from the Yukon Delta in Alaska to the Piako River mouth in the Firth of Thames, set in 2007. A great many of these godwits hang out around the beautiful shores of the Hauraki Gulf/Tikapa Moana including on the seabird coast and in Tairua, on the eastern side of the Peninsula. In many ways it is our bird. The godwits are part of the reason why the Kaiaua-P큰korokoro Miranda area is called the Seabird Coast. They help make the our place special.

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here is a etter ay to John Hedges o it will Our heritage and environment are our legacy for future generations and are often hidden in the most amazing parts in our region. The trail ride is a lot like the search for the right property. A journey that takes energy, endurance, ability to negotiate the terrain, find the best path forward and a commitment to finish what we start. When you are ready to buy, sell, invest or explore your next real estate option give me a call. Together we will get the wheels in motion.

Freephone 0800 464 898 M: 0274 572 018 E: john.hedges@harcourts.co.nz www.johnhedges.harcourts.co.nz

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