The Twin Coast Epic Mountain Bike Tour

Depart from Paihia in our purpose built mountain bike trailer and vans in the morning, and make a beeline for Horeke to start the trail. After exploring the Mangungu Mission Station at the beginning of the Twin Coast Cycle Trail, ride eastwards around the Hokianga Harbour, past the Horeke Tavern and up into the Utakua Valley. Follow the bubbling streams past backcountry farmland and untouched rural New Zealand up to the short but steep hill into Okaihau. Carry on riding past the picturesque Lake Omapere on the old Rail Corridor and into Kaikohe, the halfway point. Continue on the trail downhill from Kaikohe to Opua (45km) taking in the train tunnel, swing and rail bridges, traditional Maori community buildings (maraes) and historic towns. Spend some time in historic Kawakawa, checking out the famous Hundertwasser Toilets and Vintage Railway and Steamtrain running through the main street in town. When you are ready to continue riding, follow the meandering Kawakawa River through one of the most scenic sections of the trail to the final seaside town of Opua. Time for another coffee or bite to eat before your shuttle takes you back to your accommodation or PaIhia for a well deserved to relax and dinner out in one of the many eateries in town. This 87km trail is all off the main road, a variable gradient and achievable by most regular cyclists or fit people. There are a few hills, and a longer distance, so experience is necessary. We recommend riding the full trail in this direction based on wind patterns, trail gradient and previous experience. Please get in touch if you are dead keen to ride the other way, however.