Want to experience some of the North Island’s most intriguing features in one hit? We’ve got just the thing. Our 9 day self guided road tour from Auckland to Taupo is one of our most popular cycle routes. Here’s where it takes you…
Day 1: Natural High depot to Orere Point. 56km
Some busy city riding to contend with, before you point your nose to the ocean and slip onto quieter roads.
Day 2: Orere Point to Thames. 65.5km
Coastal riding for a large part of today along the Firth of Thames. This shoreline is a paradise for bird watchers, with thousands of birds heading here each year to rest, breed and generally live the good life. Pop into the Miranda Shorebird Centre to read about their epic migratory journeys. Miranda is also home to some very soak-worthy thermal pools (highly rated by Andy).
Day 3: Thames to Coromandel. 54kms
Oh, you’re in for a treat today. You’ll be following the fabulous coastal road that winds its way through picturesque bays and hamlets with magnificent views over the Firth of Thames. Yes, it’s hilly and yes, it’s narrow but we think you’ll agree it’s more than worth it! Coromandel town is your base for the night and it’s an interesting place to meander around. Plenty of history and an old-fashioned general store that sells everything under the sun and more.
Day 4: Coromandel to Whitianga. 43km
A big climb to get your day off to a heart-racing start, then a succession of gentler climbs, daring descents and sweeping vistas. 28kms into the ride you’ll come across the coastal village of Kuaotunu – an ideal spot for a picnic. After Kuaotunu, you’ll tackle the last significant climb of the day before onwards to Whitianga.
Day 5: Ferry Landing to Whangamata. 64km
Jump aboard the ferry to cruise across Whitianga Harbour, before settling back into the saddle. After 11.5 km, it’s decision time: take a detour to Hot Water Beach and dig your own personal hot pool in the sand (which adds an extra 12km onto the day’s riding), or carry on regardless? (For Andy, this is a no-brainer). One important point which may help determine your move – the hot spring is only accessible a couple of hours either side of LOW TIDE. Check tide times before you leave Whitianga.
Day 6: Whangamata to Tauranga. 90km
A long day in the saddle, but with only one major climb. Breeze through Waihi and several other small settlements, keeping your eyes firmly peeled for breathtaking glimpses of the ocean.
Day 7: Tauranga to Rotorua. 63km
Today you face the biggest gutbuster of the tour, taking you from sea level to 500m. You’ll know you’ve arrived in Rotorua when you catch your first whiff of sulphur. The town’s bubbling mudpools and steam vents are truly intriguing – stop in to see the mudpools of Kuirau Park on your approach to the town.
Day 8: Rotorua
A day to soak up the cultural highlights, seek out more adventure or simply soak in a hot pool. There’s world class MTB trails on offer too – so if you’re not completely sick of the saddle, let us hook you up with an off road beast.
Day 9: Rotorua to Taupo. 80km
You’re bidding farewell to the main highway today for some off-the–beaten-track riding. Pop into the Wai-O-Tapu thermal area for another glimpse of the region’s geothermal activity, including a geyser that erupts at 10.15am smart every day! It’s only a 2km detour off the main road. Watch out for your first shimmering sight of Taupo, it’s always goosebump inducing.
What’s included on this tour:
Specialized Sirrus touring bike fitted with rear panniers and computer plus helmet.
Detailed route notes and maps, with accommodation and dining suggestions.
Bike relocation from our Taupo depot. We can also transfer any extra luggage to Taupo, so you can continue on your travels without having to return to Auckland.
Bear in mind: This is a challenging ride, featuring steep hills and narrow, windy roads and it’s best suited to more experienced cyclists. We also don’t recommend you do this trip during the peak summer/school holiday time from late December through January, due to the extra traffic on the roads.
Price: $430 NZD. Enquire about booking here >>
