Twin Coast Cycle Trail
(Pou Herenga Tai)
The Twin Coast Cycle Trail (Pou Herenga Tai) provides a fantastic cycling experience that opens up beautiful rural scenery, is steeped in history and incorporates Maori cultural teachings and experiences.
While experiencing this unique historical journey, traversing the earliest origins of both Maori and European settlement and occupation, stay in our comfortable accommodation and enjoy great food in our Heritage Hotel. Experience traditional New Zealand hospitality at is finest - Ohaeawai Hotel.
The first section, the former railway corridor from Okaihau to Kaikohe is predominantly a downhill run and is suitable for bike riders of all ages. Both family and experienced trail riders enjoy this cycleway, as was seen on 29 May during the Far North Mayoral Cycle Challenge. This section of the cycle track also features an 80m long rail tunnel dating back to 1915, rich Maori history and views across Lake Omapere.
Work is currently underway on a further section of cycleway - Kawakawa to Kaikohe - scheduled to open by June 2012. The Utakura Stream Footbridge was completed in May 2011.
Part of a Ministry of Tourism nationwide initiative to build a network of cycle trails, the NZ Cycle Trail is designed to provide inter-connected trails across New Zealand. The Twin Coast Cycle Trail provides one of the first sections of the nationwide cycleway to become operational.
You can read more about the Twin Coast Cycle Trail on the Far North District Council website and media releases.
Far
North Mayor Wayne Brown is getting on his bike to ride part of
the Twin Coast Cycle Trail. (Photo :
Terry Fitzgibbon - Making
Waves)
Another 20km Of Cycle Trail Ready For Use Soon »
Far North Mayoral Cycle Challenge »
Over 700 Mark Cycle Trail Opening »
Route map » (only the first section from Okaihau to Kaikohe is currently open)
From Northern News - 27 July 2011
Far North cycle trail wins thumbs-up
A cycle trail expert has given a big thumbs-up to a coast-to-coast cycle trail being developed in the Far North. Jonathan Kennett has designed cycle trails and co-written eight editions of the best-selling guidebook Classic New Zealand Mountain Bike Rides.He cycled the Okaihau to Kaikohe section of the Pou Herenga Tai – Twin Coast Cycle Trail in May and says the standard of track is equal to that of the Otago Rail Trail.
"The finishing work they've done at providing a really great smooth, wide surface along the old railway line is absolutely excellent." Mr Kennett says the 13km trail should become a popular cycling attraction because its gentle gradient makes it an easy ride for cyclists of all ages and fitness levels. "They've built a trail that anyone can ride and that's the secret to building a great tourism product."
He is keen to cycle the trail again when poupou statues and interpretation signs have been added and newly-planted native trees are bigger. "I had a great ride last time I was there, but next time I go it'll be even better." He predicts the trail will become a national cycling destination when it is extended to 85km and people can cycle from Horeke to Opua.
"Aucklanders will flock to the trail no matter what length it is, but people further south won't unless there is at least one to two days riding, because it's a long distance to travel," HE SAYS. The carved poupou along the trail will also set it apart from other trails that have wilderness, mining or rail heritage themes. "There is no other trail that can present unique Maori-Pakeha relationship and history as well as the Northland trail."