Kaikohe

You’ll find Kaikohe in the heart of Northland – halfway between the Hokianga and the Bay of Islands, and perfectly placed to explore the very top of the country. 

Kaikohe is the historical home of Ngapuhi, Aotearoa’s largest iwi, and has long been an important destination in the north. Originally a village called Opango, Kaikohe was renamed in the early 19th Century after a rival Maori tribe raided the village. Opango fugitives subsisted among the Kohekohe trees on Tokareireia (Kaikohe Hill). The village then became known as Kaikohekohe (kai meaning food), which was later shortened to Kaikohe. Along with many historical points of interest, the town is also home to the headquarters for Far North District Council, and a number of other district and government agencies and organisations. 

In the heart of the town, you’ll find the Pioneer Village, a five acre park-like property recreated to represent a village of times gone by, as well as supermarkets, cafes, and other essential services. Kaikohe is also the mid-point of the Pou Herenga Tai Twin Coast Cycle Trail – from here the trail goes downhill in both directions making it a great base. Less than 10 minutes away is Ngawha Springs, a complex of 16 geothermal hot springs that have a long history of being a restorative and healing place to visit.

30 minutes drive east is the Bay of Islands, with three main hubs: Paihia, Kerikeri, and Russell. From these destinations you’ll find a huge range of activities from boat cruises and day sails, cultural, heritage, and arts experiences and attractions including NZ’s most important historical site Waitangi Treaty grounds, and even land-based tours that go as far as Te Rerenga Wairua Cape Reinga, the very top of the country. 

Approximately 45 minutes to the west from Kaikohe, you’ll come upon the Hokianga Harbour and the little towns of Rawene, Kohukohu, Opononi, and Omapere. Just south of the Hokianga Harbour is the Waipoua Forest, home to the largest and oldest kauri trees in the world, including Tāne Mahuta God of the Forest. 

Kaikohe is also the gateway to the very top of the country. It’s possible to make a day trip to Te Rerenga Wairua Cape Reinga from here but along the way there are loads of incredible stops like Mangōnui and Doubtless Bay, the Karikari Peninsula, Kaitaia and Ahipara, plus numerous beautiful beaches including the endless sands of Te Oneroa-a-Tohe Ninety Mile Beach. You could easily spend days exploring them all! 

All across the Far North District, you’ll find farmer’s markets, quaint cafes, exquisite fine dining, and award-winning local producers and artisans. 

Far North District Council - 0800 920 029 - Memorial Ave (Head Office), KAIKOHE | www.fndc.govt.nz