1 Day Twin Coast Cycle Trail
Experience one of New Zealand’s easiest Great Rides as you cycle through native bush, peaceful farmland and historic rail corridors. Start from Kaikohe—the highest point of the trail—and enjoy a relaxed, mostly downhill ride to either the Bay of Islands or Hokianga Harbour, with your bike and return shuttle taken care of.
Your day at a glance
Your Ride
- Relaxed, mostly downhill riding from Kaikohe
- Cycle through native bush, peaceful farmland and historic rail corridors
- Choose the Bay of Islands or Hokianga Harbour
- Ride at your own pace—allow approximately four hours
We take care of
- Quality bike and helmet
- Return shuttle from your end point
- Local route advice, maps and insider tips
- Support if you need it
Family Riding Made Easy
Planning a family day out? Top Trail can help match everyone with the right bike and setup, so riders of different ages and abilities can enjoy the trail together.
- Children’s pedal bikes
- Children’s e-bikes
- Child seats for younger children
- Adult pedal bikes and e-bikes
- Bike fitting and advice from our local team
Family equipment is subject to availability. Please contact us before booking if you need help choosing the right setup.
Choose your coast
Ride West to Hokianga Harbour (Kaikohe → Horeke / Māngungu)
Head west from Kaikohe into the beautiful Utakura Valley, one of the most scenic sections of the trail, with sweeping views, native bush and peaceful river landscapes.
Ride highlights:
- Long downhill section into the valley
- Quiet countryside and native bush
- Boardwalk and riverside riding
- Finish overlooking the Hokianga Harbour
- Māngungu Mission House
After your ride, we’ll shuttle you back to Kaikohe to complete your day.
RIDING EAST IF THE TRAIN CONNECTION IS NOT RUNNING
Ride East to Bay of Islands (Kaikohe → Kawakawa / Ōpua)
Enjoy a relaxed downhill ride from Kaikohe toward the Bay of Islands, following historic rail corridors through farmland, native bush and small Northland communities.
CYCLING EAST – The Trail and the Train
When the railway is operating, cyclists must use the Cycle-Train Connection between Taumārere Station and Whangae Tunnel Platform. This connection is booked separately and spaces are limited.
Check the current timetable and book your train connection before setting out. When the train is not operating, ride to Kawakawa for your scheduled Top Trail shuttle. Click for more details or Check timetable and book
Ride highlights:
- Easy, flowing downhill riding
- Twin suspension bridges
- Kawakawa township (great coffee + Hundertwasser toilets)
- Train connection to Ōpua and coastal views (when operating)
We’ll meet you at the end of your ride for your scheduled shuttle back to Kaikohe or Paihia.
RIDING EAST ON SELECTED DAYS THROUGH PEAK SEASON
RIDING EAST IF THE TRAIN CONNECTION IS NOT RUNNING
Staying in Paihia?
Take our complimentary 8.30am shuttle from the Paihia Maritime Building to our Kaikohe base. After cycling east, we’ll return you to Paihia at the end of your ride.
Available for eastbound rides, subject to a minimum of two passengers. Choose Paihia as your start point when booking. Advance booking is essential.
Make Your Ride Even Easier
Ride Easy Pack – Add extra comfort and convenience to your day with a gel seat cover, fresh water bottle and cellphone holder $10 per bike.
Lock & Roll Cover –Protect your hired bike against damage and theft, provided it is secured with the supplied bike lock. $10 per bike.