Ngaruawahia to Hamilton
Section Length: 27km
Approximate Cycle Time: 2 hours each way
Approximate Walk Time: 5 hours, 30 minutes each way
Difficulty: Easy

This is the newest section of Te Awa starting at Ngaruawahia Domain, just a stone’s throw from the Hakarimata Scenic Reserve.
This Grade One section features the popular and iconic Perry Bridge, one of the longest walk/cycle bridges in New Zealand!

The section follows the river almost entirely, with some great spots to stop for a picnic. You can take a short detour to test your skills at the Perry Bike Skills Park in Horotiu (or swirl a coffee while the kids do!) or if you have your knobbly tyres on and want a bit of dirt wheeling, the Pukete Mountain Bike Park is just off the Te Awa Trail. If you’re lucky, you may see some horses training at the Waikato Equestrian Centre on your way past – but failing all of that, you’re spoilt for choice coming into Hamilton with bucketloads of café options available in the city, just a stone’s throw from the river.

The section finishes (or starts, depending on your direction!) at the award-winning Hamilton Gardens. Make sure you allow loads of time for a meander through this stunning landscaped environment – and it won’t cost you a cent!

Enjoy the Ride!