Cozy Stay on Coast to Coast

🚲 Pou Herenga Tai – Twin Coast Cycle Trail

Kaikohe sits at the literal centre and highest point of this famous 87 km coast-to-coast trail. Whether you bring your own bikes or hire e-bikes locally, the central location makes it easy to ride in either direction:

• Heading East (Toward Kawakawa & Opua): This popular section takes you through rolling farmland, across suspension bridges, and through the 80-meter curved historic railway tunnel at Otiria.

• Heading West (Toward Mangamuka & Hokianga): A serene ride leading past the historic Kaikohe Railway Station, down toward the raw beauty of the Hokianga Harbour and Okaihau.

• Visitor Hub: The trail hub in town offers bike hire, shuttles, and trail advice if you want to drop off at one end and ride back to base.

Just a short 5 to 10-minute drive east of town lies Ngāwhā Springs, one of Northland’s most authentic and culturally significant geothermal treasures.

• The Experience: Known for centuries by local iwi for its healing and medicinal properties, the springs feature a collection of outdoor mineral pools ranging from soothing warm waters to intensely hot geothermal baths. Each pool has its own unique mineral content, color, and temperature.

• Visitor Info: The complex features modern changing facilities, boardwalks, and seating areas. It is recommended to book your session online in advance, especially during weekends and peak travel seasons.

• Tip: Leave your silver jewelry at home, as the natural sulfur in the mineral waters will tarnish it!

For an unforgettable view of Northland from coast to coast, head to the Kaikohe Aerodrome on Mangakahia Road.

• Trial Scenic Flights: The local club offers trial flight experiences where an experienced pilot will take you up in a two-seater glider. On a clear day, you can simultaneously view the Pacific Ocean to the east and the Tasman Sea to the west!

• When to Go: Operating primarily on Sundays and Thursdays (weather permitting). Be sure to contact them ahead of time to check wind conditions and book a slot.

Step back in time at this sprawling 5-acre open-air museum located right in town.

• Walk through restored historic buildings, including an 1800s courthouse, a historic jail, a schoolhouse, blacksmith shops, and early settler cottages.

• It offers a vivid look into how early Māori and European settlers lived, worked, and built the Northland community.

For a scenic panoramic view over Kaikohe and the surrounding volcanic landscape, drive or walk up to the Hone Heke Monument.

• The monument honours the famous Ngāpuhi chief who played a pivotal role in early New Zealand history.

• It’s an ideal spot for morning coffee or a sunset photo over the rolling green hills.

Located near the town centre, this hidden gem houses a collection of vintage fire engines, firefighting memorabilia, and historical equipment preserved by local volunteers. (Opening hours vary, check local listings).

Thanks to our central location, Kaikohe makes the ideal base for exploring the broader Northland region:

Kerikeri & Bay of Islands ~25 mins

Stone Store, Rainbow Falls, boutique wineries, craft markets, and coastal boat tours.

Hokianga Harbour & Omapere ~35 mins

Giant sand dunes, historic Rawene ferry, coastal dining, and harbour views.

Waipoua Forest ~45 mins

Home to Tāne Mahuta (The Lord of the Forest), the largest living Kauri tree in New Zealand.

Paihia & Waitangi ~35 mins

The Waitangi Treaty Grounds, Golf course, island cruises, kayaking, and beach activities.

• Supermarkets & Supplies: Countdown Kaikohe (Station Road) for full grocery runs.

• Fuel & Charging: Multiple service stations located along Broadway / Mangakahia Road.

• Golf: Kaikohe Golf Club offers an 18-hole course surrounded by rural scenery—visitors are always welcome.

• Dining: Pick up local fish and chips, visit local bakeries for fresh pies, or grab a coffee at town cafes before heading out on the trail.