Easiest - Intermediate
Stretching between the Bay of Islands in the east to Hokianga Harbour in the west the Twin Coast Cycle Trail Pou Herenga Tai is rich in history, scenery and local hospitality.
Coastal views, wetlands, native forest and rolling farmland are all enjoyed on this coast-to-coast ride between the Bay of Islands and Hokianga Harbour.
Following smooth trail, dedicated cycle paths and country roads, you're treated to a mix of relaxed riding with landmark heritage sites and stories from the past. The trail is located in the ‘winterless north’, it’s a terrific all-season option within the Ngā Haerenga Great Rides of New Zealand (opens in new window)network.
Nau mai, haere mai! Be prepared for a warm welcome on Aotearoa New Zealand’s northernmost Great Ride.
Following a retired railway line for much of the way, this mostly easy trail offers ever-changing scenery and fascinating insights into New Zealand’s early history.
Significant heritage sites such as Waitangi Treaty Grounds and Māngungu Mission join art galleries and Kawakawa’s Te Hongonga Hundertwasser Memorial Park (opens in new window)to present a deeper understanding of this historically rich region. Storyboards along the trail bring even more history to life.
The trail’s four sections can be ridden in full, in either direction, or enjoyed as various day rides. The town of Kaikohe is the central point, from where the trail descends west to Hōreke on tranquil Hokianga Harbour, and east to Opua in the glittering Bay of Islands. Dotted along the way are other neat towns and settlements where refreshments and other services are available.
Conveniently located bike hire, shuttles and tour companies make it easy to sort out the logistics of your cycle journey.
A detailed description of this Great Ride, including maps and more information, can be found here:
Based in Kaikohe, Top Trail Hire & Tours offers bike hire, shuttles and package tours taking in other local highlights, with guided rides available by arrangement.
There’s plenty of accommodation on or around the trail, particularly in towns such as Paihia, Russell and Kaikohe.
An array of other options can also be found smaller settlements and surrounding countryside, including Okaihau and Horeke. Providers partnered with the trail are listed on the New Zealand Cycle Trails and Twin Coast Cycle Trail websites.
Ngā Haerenga New Zealand Cycle Trails(opens in new window)
Pou Herenga Tai Twin Coast Cycle Trail(opens in new window)
Northland NZ(opens in new window)
Great Rides app - Twin Coast Cycle Trail(opens in new window)