Home - Te Awa

Play full video

The Te Awa River Ride is one of most accessible and scenic cycling and walking trails in New Zealand. It is the longest concrete path in the country winding its way for 65km from Ngaruawahia to Lake Karapiro following New Zealand’s largest river – the mighty Waikato.

It began in 2009 with a vision of the Te Awa River Ride Charitable Trust to open up more of the Waikato River to our locals and visitors alike and connect our communities along the way.

From lake and river to waterfalls, along bridges and elevated boardwalks, the Te Awa River Ride showcases parts of the Waikato that have never before been seen – a world-class recreation experience for the whole family and right on our backdoor step.

We hope you enjoy the experience!

Download Te Awa Main Map PDF

Trail Closures

Occasionally, some sections of Te Awa may need to be closed - but signed detours will be put in place if possible. See below for any current closures. If you wish to let us know of any issues along the trail, please contact us via the Report It button

Current Closures

Awatere/Ann St section closed (due to fallen tree) until further notice. Click here for the detour map.
CBD section behind the museum closed (due to construction of new steps to theatre) until early December 2025. Click here for the detour map.
An alternative route is in place to access the Horotiu Service Centre. This is long term while Te Awa Lakes is being developed. View the route here.

Upcoming Closures

Monday 17 November - a short detour will be in place just south of the Hooker Rd entrance while a boardwalk is repaired. Thanks to the Porritt's for allowing users to detour through their property for the day!
Te Awa Lakes are starting some major tree removal and earthworks in the new year. So the section just south of the expressway and old Horotiu Bridges will be closed during that time. Keep an eye out here for specific dates in 2026!