Pou Herenga Tai Twin Coast Cycle Trail

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. 

Ride experience

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.

Need to know

• Smooth tracks most of the way; this trail is particularly well suited to younger, older, and less experienced riders, with the security of small towns close by.
• Although you can ride in either direction, the most popular route for full-trail riders is east to base yourself at Kaikohe and ride downhill both days, firstly to Kawakawa and then to Māngungu. 
• There are many day rides, ranging from an easy one hour to all day. Rides can be factored into your holiday, adding in other memorable activities such as cruising, kayaking, other water activities and walking. 
• The trail is well signposted, with some sections following historic Māori pathways marked with carved pou (pillars).
• Northland’s sub-tropical climate makes for great cycling at any time of year although some places can be humid after heavy rain. Ensure you drink lots of water along the way.

Transport & tours

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.

Accommodation

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 Ōkaihau and Horeke. Providers partnered with the trail are listed on the New Zealand Cycle Trails and Twin Coast Cycle Trail websites. 

Useful links

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)