Mountain Bike Through Kauaeranga Valley
Kauaeranga Valley is a beautiful valley following the Kauaeranga River, located approximately 15 kilometres to the east of Thames, on the Coromandel Peninsula.
Kauaeranga Valley Attractions
There's no better way to see the Kauaeranga Valley than by mountain bike. The road follows the Kauaeranga River, passing a couple of excellent swimming spots on the way. You can also cycle up the coast road to the Square Kauri Tree, one of the largest and oldest on the Coromandel Peninsula. This tree is located on the road between Tapu and Coroglen, about two hours ride from Thames.
Further attractions in the Kauaeranga Valley include historic dams, the Pinnacles and Model Dam.
The Pinnacles
The Pinnacles offer panoramic views of the bush, mountains and coastline of southern Coromandel. These unusual attractions stand 759 metres high.
Model Dam
From the 1870's, much of the Kauaeranga Valley was forrested for its magnificent Kauri trees. Over 60 dams were built in the Kauaeranga Valley, though only two remain substantially intact today (Christmas Creek and Dancing Camp).
A replica model dam (built to scale), like those used in the days of kauri logging, is located just a short walk from the Kauaeranga Visitor Centre.
Kauaeranga Valley Activities
Activities in the Kauaeranga Valley include:
- Tramping
- Horse riding
- Swimming
- Hunting (permit required)
- Mountain biking
- Dog walking
- Abseiling
Kauaeranga Valley Accommodation
Kauaeranga Valley offers a range of accommodation options.
You can stay at Pinnacles Hut in the upper Kauaeranga Valley or the new Crosbies Hut.
There are eight campgrounds located along the Kauaeranga River. There are also some backcountry campsites (with no road access). These campsites can be found along the Kauaeranga Kauri Trail.
Kauaeranga Valley Conservation
Kauaeranga Valley is managed by the Department of Conservation. Some things to remember include:
- Do not take animals (other than dogs or horses) into the reserve
- Do not light fires
- Take your rubbish away with you
- Do not remove or disturb any artifacts or other historic remains
- Camp only in designated camping areas