The Kaikohe Activities You Can’t Miss!
Located in between the coast of Hokianga and the Bay of Islands, Kaikohe is a small town with a lot of history. The area is the home of the Ngapuhi, New Zealand’s largest iwi (tribe) and they were in the middle of the start of the Maori and European’s history together. This history is marked at the Hone Heke Memorial Park or at the Pioneer Village attraction packed with heritage buildings and amazing historical insights. On top of that, Kaikohe has many other amazing attractions, such as the Twin Coast Cycle Trail and some natural therapeutic hot pools. Find out what you could be doing in this list of things to do in Kaikohe.
While you’re in the area, don’t miss the nearby towns:
1. Ride or Walk the Twin Coast Cycle Trail
Kaikohe marks halfway on the 87km (54 miles) Twin Coast Cycle Trail. The scenic grade 1-3 cycle trail takes in a wealth of diverse scenery from bush to farmland to coast. Kaikohe is the ideal place to start a day or half-day rides, with bike hire and shuttle services operating from Kaikohe to get you to and from your desired points on the cycle trail.
Location: The entire Twin Coast Cycle Trail starts in Opua and ends in Horeke, passing right through Kaikohe.
© NZPocketGuide.com2. Unwind in the Ngawha Springs Hot Pools
Based in the centre of a geothermal hotbed, the Ngawha Springs Hot Pools provide a warm and soothing experience. The hot pool complex is as “authentic” as it gets, so do expect a luxury spa resort. Just take your pick out of one of the small pools of 34-40ºC (93-104ºF). Plus, at NZ$4 an adult, you can definitely afford to give it a try.
Location: Ngawha Springs Road, off State Highway 12 – 7km (4 miles) from Kaikohe.
© Eli Duke on Flickr3. Visit Pioneer Village
With 500 years of Maori settlement and one of the earliest European settlements in New Zealand, Kaikohe has a lot of history to unpack. A great place to learn about it all is at the Pioneer Village – 11 heritage buildings giving you an insight into the way the early settlers of New Zealand used to live.
Location: 1A Recreation Road.
© DXR on Wikipedia4. Check Out Hone Heke Memorial Park
One of the most famous historical figures in New Zealand, Hone Heke was the first Maori chief to sign the Treaty of Waitangi before he became a leading opponent of the British rule. You can learn the stories of Hone Heke and see Maori carvings at the Hone Heke Memorial Park.
Location: Monument Road.
© Moriori on Wikipedia5. Watch a Race at the Kaikohe Speedway
Yes, Kaikohe has its very own speedway, often hosting races, burn out competitions and demolition derbies! Take a look at upcoming events on the Kaikohe Speedway Facebook page.
Location: State Highway 12 just north of Kaikohe.
© PixabayMore Things to Do Near Kaikohe
