Kaikohe to Ōkaihau ► Twin Coast Cycle Trail

Kaikohe to Ōkaihau

Distance: 14km

Grade: 1-2

Kaikohe is approximately the middle of the cycle trail
The Pioneer Village is in Kaikohe
There is an 80 metre long curved rail tunnel. Handy hint – Let your eyes adjust to the dark before entering or dismount your bike and walk.
Summit of Kaikohe – views of the sand dunes in Hokianga Harbour to the West and Mt Hikurangi to the South
Lake Omapere – Northland’s longest lake and also significant in Te Ao Māori (Māori world view)
The water ford close to Ōkaihau – you can cycle through it or take the bridge beside it
Changing views – native bush, farms and the lake

Kaikohe is a farming town in which you will find plenty of eateries and two supermarkets
Take the time to visit the Kaikohe Pioneer Village
The trail between Kaikohe and Ōkaihau follows a disused railway corridor, leaving east of town the trail climbs gently to the highest point of the trail at 280 metres above the coast
You will pass through an 80-metre long curved rail tunnel that was built in 1915 before descending to Lake Omapere
Despite having the highest point of the trail it is an easy Grade 1-2 ride
Ōkaihau is a small settlement that services its nearby rural community. You will find a café, takeaways, small supermarket and public toilets there.

Parking, toilets and food at both Kaikohe and Ōkaihau
Entering the trail – Kaikohe – The entrance is on the main road (SH12/Takehe Rd) close to a rest area 600m past the Mid North Motor Inn
Entering the trail – Ōkaihau – As you turn off SH1 – Nova Street, Two Ponga park, are just past the public toilets

Important – Don’t forget to lock your bike!

Kaikohe

Station Road (opposite Kaikohe Refuse Centre – small carpark)
Taheke Road Reserve (adjacent to Taheke Rd, SH12) 600m past township heading towards Tahere – main carpark

Ōkaihau

- Two Ponga Park (next to public toilets), Ōkaihau
- Ōkaihau Community Hall, Settlers Way, Ōkaihau
- Imms Road (off Lake Road), Ōkaihau – small carpark