AJ's Circuit: Journey on Two Wheels

Embark on an easy going journey with AJ's Circuit, a leisurely addition to the Ruakuri bush walk that promises a peaceful ride through the enchanting landscapes of Waitomo. The adventure begins at the Waitomo Ebikes base, inviting you to savour the tranquility that lies ahead.

As you pedal away, the road unfolds into a pleasant mix of sealed and gravel paths, spanning a leisurely 30 kilometers. Enjoy the anticipation as you gracefully navigate a bush track, a gentle introduction to the beauty awaiting you at the Waitomo Caves car park. A cautious crossing of the main road, with its rhythmic tourist traffic, adds a touch of suspense to your laid-back journey.

Meander into the unknown as you turn left into Tumutumu Road, encountering a gentle ascent that leads to a plateau, the heart of your adventure. A signpost invites you to the Ruakuri Scenic Reserve, offering a choice: continue on the relaxed ride of AJ's Circuit or explore the charming Ruakuri Bush walk. The decision is yours, but the latter promises an experience well worth the effort.

For those opting to skip the bush walk, the journey unfolds as Tumutumu Road transforms into a gravel-clad ascent. With the freedom to choose your power level and gears, a steady climb provides panoramic views of a deep valley, farmland, and native forest. Reach the pinnacle for a leisurely downhill glide, followed by a scenic ride along Boddies Road, as the road flattens out and if the weather is clear look to your right where you’ll get views of Mt Ruapehu and a glimpse of Mt Ngauruhoe, two of the three volcanoes that make up the Central North Island Volcanic Plateau. 

You’ll pass by two tourism operators, Kiwi Cave Rafting and Spellbound Glowworm & Cave Tours, after which you’ll soon be switching back to a sealed road. Once on the seal it's all downhill to the intersection of Boddies and Oparure Road where you’ll turn left. A word of caution here, although the speed limit for vehicles is 50km, heavy truck and trailer units frequent this road at times exceeding the speed limit but thankfully you’re only on this stretch for 1km. Along this stretch you’ll pass Te Wharekura o Maniapoto, a total immersion Maori language school. Not much further along you’ll see a signpost for the left turn into Fullerton Road. Traverse this peaceful country road, where steady ascents give way to mostly downhill glides, offering picturesque views back to Waitomo Village.

Sum up the joy of AJ's Circuit by allowing a leisurely 2-3 hours to soak in the entirety of this tranquil journey, especially if you include the Ruakuri Bush walk. It's a perfect introduction to the natural wonders of the area, inviting you to further embrace the charm of rides with Waitomo Ebikes.