The Waikato Outdoor Activities

Get outside and get right into some adventurous outdoor activities in the Waikato - you're only young once!

With its rolling green hills and rugged Tasman coast, the Waikato is pretty as a picture. No wonder it was the movie location for the Shire in Lord of the Rings. And with such gorgeous countryside to explore, you've got to love just how many outdoorsy things to do in the Waikato there are.

The region has awesome bike trails, including three of New Zealand Cycle Trails' 'Great Rides'. Prefer to sightsee on foot? No worries. You'll find everything from short walks and hikes to challenging treks.

Or how about trying your hand at some of the must-do water activities in the Waikato? From cruising to surfing, there's plenty to pack into your itinerary. No danger of being at a loss for what to do here.

So what you waiting for? Get planning a trip to the Waikato before we do!

Image: The Mighty Waikato

Cycling

  • Hit the exhilarating Waikato River Trails and encounter everything from suspension bridges to hydro dams.
  • Head off on a backcountry adventure with a ride along the 87km Timber Trail. You'll cycle the ancient Pureora Forest and pass a historic bush tramway.
  • While it's 160km long, the Hauraki Rail Trail is an easy bike trail. Take the family on this scenic adventure and camp along the way!
Image: The Mighty Waikato

Short Walks

  • Visit the pure waters of the Blue Spring, where over half of New Zealand's bottled water is sourced, on the Te Waihou Walkway.
  • Discover the Waikato's gold mining heritage with a hike through Wairongomai Valley in Te Aroha. This forest walk takes in interesting historic sites along the way.
  • Walk along boardwalks to reach Mangapohue Natural Bridge, which curves across a limestone gorge.
Image: The Mighty Waikato

Water Activities

  • Take to the waters in a kayak and enjoy this relaxing way of exploring. We love the guided night paddle to see the glowworms at Pokaiwhenua Canyon. Pure magic.
  • The Waikato has some ace surf sports. Head to Raglan's Manu Bay to ride one of the longest left-hand breaks in the world.
  • Kick back with a chilled-out boat cruise. Maybe a sunset Raglan Harbour cruise?

Created in partnership with The Mighty Waikato