Te Ara Ahi Trail
Rotorua
- Grade: Intermediate
- Duration: 1-2 days
- Total Length: 47-51km
- Location: Rotorua
Te Ara Ahi - Thermal by Bike, offers a 47-51 km cycling adventure through a thermal wonderland of steaming vents, bubbling mud pools and spectacular geysers. Between the trail heads at Rotorua and Waikite Valley Thermal Springs, this cycle trail takes cyclists to four significant geothermal fields: Whakarewarewa, Waimangu Volcanic Valley, Wai-O-tapu Thermal Wonderland, and Waikite Valley Thermal Springs. Each has its own unique geothermal features, including rare flora and fauna and is rich in Māori history and folklore. Possibly the most famous of these is the Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve, located next to Te Puia (the New Zealand Māori Arts & Crafts Institute).
Here you will also find Whakarewarewa Village, which has existed for over 700 years and is home to many families of the survivors of the 1886 eruption of Mt Tarawera. Other unique features along the trail include the Lake Okaro restoration project (re-established wetland), Rainbow Mountain, Te Ranga Hot Pools, and Waikite Geothermal Field. Most of the geothermal areas are well established tourist attractions, with a wide range of amenities such as cafes, souvenir shops, toilets and bike storage facilities. We recommend you take your time and spend one or two days to fully enjoy riding this trail.
There are daily shuttles and organised tours from Rotorua to each of the geothermal areas as well as regular coach services between Rotorua and Taupo. The Rotorua i-SITE can help arrange transport and shuttles.
Make sure to check the weather before setting off and dress appropriate. Layers are your best friend. Pack the essentials, a change of clothes, puncture repair kit, sunscreen, insect repellent and a water bottle.
For more information, view the Te Ara Ahi Trail page provided by NZ Cycle Trail.
Rotorua
Find out more about the Rotorua region by following the links below:
- Rotorua Accommodation
- Rotorua Attractions and Activities
- Rotorua Cuisine and Dining
- Rotorua Tours
- Rotorua Transport
- Rotorua Visitor Information
All Rotorua accommodation can be booked online.
