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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

Gaslight Theatre to Velodrome section - 400m gravel diversion in place from until March 2025. View the diversion here
An alternative route is in place to access the Horotiu Service Centre. View the route here

Upcoming Closures

17 March 2025 (for approx. 3 weeks) - a short section of Te Awa around the Fairfield Bridge in Hamilton will be closed due to works on a bridge. Signage will be in place at both ends of the detour and the path will be reopened during the weekends. View the detour here