2025 IN REVIEW
CHAIR REPORT
It’s been another great year for the Te Awa River Ride, full of creativity, community involvement, and plenty of growth along the way.
“The positive feedback we receive reminds us just how important this space is for recreation, wellbeing, and connection.”
2025 IN NUMBERS
TRAIL USE & GROWTH
We continue to see growth in numbers year upon year
Users recorded on 3 counters
%
of users were visiting the region*
Net Promoter Score
%
of users were riding the trail on eBikes
*based on user survey data
“I love how you can ride one end to the other without major hassle or issues and feel safe whilst doing so, allowing you to concentrate on the riding/scenery.”
TAKING SHAPE
TE AWA ART TRAIL
Hover over each image to find out more about the artwork.
Tap on each image to find out more about the artwork.
MAMA PUKEKO
KOWHAI DREAMING
FLUTTER & FLOW
TRAIL IMPROVEMENTS
NEW SHELTERS
Three new shelters have been installed thanks to the support of Hamilton Central Rotary.
Hover over each image to find out more about the shelter location.
Tap on each image to find out more about the shelter location.
Porritt's Corner
Opposite the Tuna Kuwharuwharu artwork
On the boardwalk off Riverglade Drive
TE AWA PLANTING
NATIVES TAKE OFF
Thanks to funds from WRA and WCEET the 40,000+ plants planted over the past three years are now thriving!
Hold the arrows and swipe to see Mangaonua Gully before and after.
TRAIL INITIATIVES
TE AWA E-TRIKE
TRAIL INITIATIVES
TE AWA E-TRIKE
Breaking down the barriers – a great partnership between Lions Tamahere, Riverside Adventures! With the help of the E-Trike, Te Awa has become more accessible to people who might not otherwise be able to use it.
NGĀRUAWĀHIA & CAMBRIDGE
LIGHT NIGHTS
RECORD NUMBERS
DOUBLED FROM 2024!
THE POINT TO PERRY BRIDGE
SHORT RIDE
5KM ONE WAY | GRADE ONE
“I did not expect the trail to be so smooth for such a distance. It is incredible.”
OUR SPONSORS & SUPPORTERS
THANK YOU
2025 IN REVIEW
CHAIR REPORT
It’s been another great year for the Te Awa River Ride, full of creativity, community involvement, and plenty of growth along the way.
Events and Community Fun
We were thrilled to run two Light Night events this year, both of which drew fantastic crowds and great feedback. Seeing the trail come alive after dark – with lights, laughter, and plenty of local energy – was a real highlight. These events are becoming a much-loved tradition, and we’re already looking forward to planning the next ones.
A big thank you to everyone who helped make them happen – especially our amazing volunteers who give so much of their time and effort.
Te Awa Art Trail
Another major achievement this year was the installation of six new sculptures as part of the Te Awa Art Trail. These artworks have really added something special to the trail, giving people new things to discover and enjoy along the way. It’s been wonderful to see so many people stopping to take photos and appreciate the creativity on display.
Trail Use and Growth
We’ve noticed a steady increase in trail users this year, which is great to see. More cyclists, walkers, and families are out enjoying the trail, and it’s becoming an even more valued part of our community. The positive feedback we receive reminds us just how important this space is for recreation, wellbeing, and connection.
Thank Yous
A very special thank you goes to our volunteers, funders and sponsors who continue to help with maintenance and events – Russell, our regular volunteer who has often been seen on the Te Awa eBike laying traps, weed whacking, leaf blowing and generally keeping the trail in top shape, the three Council Parks Teams for their ongoing work to keep the trail safe and looking great – and all our funders that allow us to provide world class experiences for our users.
And of course, a big thanks to all of you out there riding or striding along Te Awa every day. We love seeing the trail thriving and being used by so many people in different ways.
Looking Ahead
Looking to the future, we’re really excited about planned extensions to the north and south. These will open even more opportunities for people to explore, connect, and enjoy the trail. There’s a lot to look forward to, and we can’t wait to see how the next stage of the journey unfolds.
Thanks again to everyone who’s been part of another successful year. The trail is in great shape – and the best is still to come!
Simon Perry,
TE AWA RIVER RIDE CHARITABLE TRUST
Chairperson