Waihora Link

Ride amongst vast stands of Kamahi, through volcanic rock formations and past the intriguing Echo Rock before you start to descend down the Kotukutuku Stream.

Proudly part of the Great Rides New Zealand

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Trail Stats and Map

  • Distance
    14.2 Km
  • Time
    1.5 hrs Cycling | 2.5 hrs Walking
  • Ability
    Grade 3 | Intermediate
  • Trail Type
    Forrest | Pumice | Shared use

Elevation

Off road trails can be narrow and may include hill climbs and steep drop-offs. The trail surface is mostly firm, but may include muddy or loose sections. There may be obstacles to avoid.

Elevation

Elevation | 493m

Climb | 5.2km

Descent | 6.3km

Flat | 2.7km

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Riding the Waihaha Trail

From the Waihaha Road junction, the trail continues along towards Kotukutuku Landing. This section is extraordinarily beautiful with big blue skies and expansive views from the Waihora lookout across Lake Taupo to the majestic volcanoes of Tongariro National Park.

Ride amongst vast stands of Kamahi, through volcanic rock formations and past the intriguing Echo Rock before you start to descend down the Kotukutuku Stream via the unique engineering feat of bridges, platforms and boardwalks. You will emerge onto the beach in a tranquil bay where you will meet your pre-booked boat transfer across to Kinloch.

Transport out from the end of the Waihaha section of the trail at Kotukutuku Landing is by pre-booked boat shuttle only. There is no trail link between the end of the Waihaha section and the Kawakawa section.

Find out everything you need to plan for these tracks on Plan My Walk

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The Great Lake Trails are proud to be part of Ngā Haerenga - The New Zealand Cycle Trails network.

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Bike shuttles, guides & tours

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  • Kayaking

    Taupo Kayaking Adventures Bike & Kayak Combo Tours

    Why not combine your mountain biking and kayaking trip into one fun adventure packed day? Enjoy the stunning scenery Great Lake Taupo and its surrounding area has on offer on both land and water.

    $120 - $510 Book now
  • Cycling & Mountain Biking

    Overnight e-Bike Adventures

    Join us for the ultimate private mountain e-biking adventure in the Central North Island and stay in a luxurious remote lodge for the night. You will experience a truly private, wilderness adventure, with your very own on-site accommodation and host.

    $595 Book now
  • Airport shuttles

    FourB - Great Lake Trails Shuttles

    Shuttle transfers for all sections of the Great Lake Trails in Taupo including booking the water taxi transfer from the Waihaha section in the Western Bays of Lake Taupo.

    $45 - $150 Book now
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    Huka River Trail Guided Geothermal E-bike Tour

    Enjoy a scenic e-bike tour and learn about our breathtaking Huka Falls, the mighty crystal clear Waikato River, Aratiatia Dam & Rapids. Finish with a ride past an incredible geothermal stream in Wairakei. (previous MTB experience is good).

    $299 - $399 Book now
  • Cycling & Mountain Biking

    FourB - Waihaha Road & Boat Transfer Package

    The Great Lake Trail Waihaha-Waihora section Including return road transfer, scenic boat transfer and bike hire to enjoy one of the best one day trails in the North Island. Some previous trail riding is important as it is an intermediate trail.

    $295 - $325 Book now
  • Cycling & Mountain Biking

    42 Traverse Guided E-Bike Ride

    Known as one of the best adventure mountain bike rides in New Zealand. A 46km Grade 3 guided mountain e-bike tour through the Tongariro Forest. The 42 Traverse takes you into sub-alpine New Zealand with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.

    $299 Book now
  • Custom transfers

    Mangakino Shuttle Service

    Enjoy the Beautiful Scenery of the famous Waikato River Trail as you Bike or walk in an ever-changing, Breathtaking landscape, for just a few hours, or travel more of the trail over 2 to 5 days. Shuttle, Bike Hire and accommodation available.

    $20 - $60
  • Cycling & Mountain Biking

    FourB - Timber Trail All Inclusive Package

    Timber Trail 2-day all inclusive package. One night in Taupo, one night in the Timber Trail Lodge, meals and luggage transfers ex Taupo.

    $599 - $699 Book now
  • Ferries & water taxis

    Taxicat Adventures - Ultimate Great Lake Trails Bike Transfer

    Taxicat offers a unique water taxi transfer service for the Great Lake Trails.

    $65 - $86
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