Kaikohe is approximately the middle of the cycle trail
The Pioneer Village in Kaikohe
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 Maori mythology
The water ford close to Okaihau – you can cycle through it or take the bridge beside it
Changing views – native bush, farms and the lake
Trail Overview
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 Okaihau 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 80m long curved rail tunnel that was built in 1915 before descending to Lake Omapere.
Despite having the highest point of the trail – it is a easy grade 1 to 2 ride.
Okaihau is a small settlement that services its nearby rural community. You will find a café, takeaways, small supermarket and public toilets there.
The Basics
Parking, toilets and food at both Kaikohe and Okaihau
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 – Okaihau – As you turn off SH1 – Nova Street, Two Ponga park, are just past the public toilets
Important – Don’t forget to lock your bike!
Parking
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
Okaihau
Two Ponga Park (next to public toilets), Okaihau
Okaihau Community Hall, Settlers Way, Okaihau
Imms Road (off Lake Road), Okaihau – small carpark