Enjoy a relaxing journey through some of New Zealand’s earliest European and Māori settlements on the Twin Coast Cycle Trail – Pou Herenga Tai. The trail is in the Far North district where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed and riders can enjoy historic and cultural experiences while travelling through stunning natural landscapes.
Look out for the beautiful Māori Pou that are being erected along the route. Hand-carved by local iwi, these Pou recall the history and stories of both iwi and Pakeha settlements in and around the area.
Riding the Trail
A 14 kilometre section of the Twin Coast Cycle Trail, between Okaihau and Kaikohe, is open and ready to ride. Head down Nova Street if you’re starting your ride in Okaihau. At the Kaikohe end, you’ll find the start of the trail on Taheke Road (about 600 metres past the end of Broadway Road). Please note that there is a ford to cross on Nova Street in Okaihau and trail users are encouraged to use the foot bridge after heavy rain.
This section of cycle trail is well signposted and there are parking and picnic facilities at either end.
It’s anticipated that the entire 84 kilometres of the Twin Coast Cycle Trail, from Horeke to Kawakawa, will be complete and open to ride in December 2012.
Plan & Prepare
This trail is graded easy because it is generally flat and wide with a smooth cycling surface and gentle climbs. Most of the trail is built on an old rail corridor, suitable for riders of all ages, abilities and fitness levels – and any bike with fat tyres.
The Far North boasts up to 2000 hours of sunshine per year and enjoys moderate temperatures averaging from between 24°C (75°F) down to 14°C (57°F) with high humidity. While often described as the ‘Winterless North’, like most of New Zealand, the weather here can be changeable. It’s recommended you carry wind and waterproof clothing with you on the trail.
Services & Accommodation
There are cafes, shops and accommodation available in Kawakawa, Kaikohe and Okaihau. Visit the Destination Northland Visitor Information for tips on where to stay, what to do and how to get around.
Clean water is one of Northland's most scarce resources so is considered very precious. Despite the high rainfall compared with other parts of the country, the small area of land means most rainfall drains away to the rivers and the sea. The rivers are short, slow moving and are often heavily influenced by ocean tides. Northland's lowland water quality is generally poor and not suitable for drinking.
Any water taken from a river or stream should be boiled, filtered or treated before drinking. Alternatively you can purchase commercially bottled water from the businesses along the trail, or ask to fill your water bottle after a coffee stop at one of the local cafés. Be aware that dehydration from the humid climate in Northland can be severe. During the hotter months it’s recommended you carry 1.5-2.5 litres of water per person per day.
Public toilets are available at both ends of the trail in Kaikohe (Library Square) and Okaihau (2 Ponga Park).
Mobile phone coverage on the Twin Coast Cycle Trail is generally good, although there is limited-to-no coverage for approximately 1.5 kilometres between the Kaikohe tunnel and the quarry heading toward Okaihau.
Best Time to Ride
Northland enjoys a subtropical climate and the cycle trail is suited to all seasons. There is no definitive winter or summer, which makes it a wonderful place to explore and experience at any time of the year.
Getting There
The Twin Coast Cycle Trail is just under 4 hours drive from Auckland and an hour from Whangarei. There are a number of bus services operating between Auckland and Whangarei. There is also a bus service from Whangarei to Kaikohe and the start of the trail.
Top Trail Hire & Tours currently offers bike hire services as well as pick-ups and drop-offs between Paihia and the start of the cycle trail. Top Trail also offers secure parking at their depot in Kaikohe.
Official Trail Partners
The NZCT's Official Partner Programme recognises those local businesses that support their cycle trail. We encourage you to support them in return: