Karangahake Gorge

Many Kiwi’s will have driven through the breathtaking Karangahake Gorge but few will have ventured into the walkways, old tunnels, discovered the rich history hidden in the gorge and cycle the Hauraki Rail Trail. Not only is this one of the most stunning stretches of river in the country it was home to one of the busiest and most lucrative goldstrikes in the country.

The Windows Walkway would have to rate as one of the most stunning in the area with windows blasted through the gold mining tunnels providing stunning views into the Waitewheta river.

The Karangahake Gorge is a major highlight for the Hauraki Rail Trail, which can be accessed from Thames, Paeroa, Waihi, or Te Aroha. The trail offers a range of short riding options or for those wishing to make a weekend of it the entire trail can be done over three days.