The Twin Coast Discovery Highway
Northland is filled with stunning beauty, an aquatic playground and a land of unspoilt natural splendour, where twin coasts meet at its northernmost point to become one.
There is much to discover up here, where the air is fresher, the grass greener and the water warmer. To help you along the way is the Twin Coast Discovery Highway, a circular scenic route that will help you unearth the best of this wonderful region.
Maitai Bay
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While cruising the highway, keep your eyes open for our off-the-beaten-track tourist drives that will take you just about anywhere you fancy. But don't underestimate the scale of Northland; it stretches far into the subtropical northern waters of the Tasman Sea. Plan your itinerary with enough time to make it an experience, not just a trip.
If you have a particular hankering for a game of golf or three, or perhaps a leaning towards our fine wines and cuisine, then combine the Twin Coast Discovery with one of our specialist trails. Explore museums, historic buildings and significant cultural sites on the Heritage Trail, fill your tummies and get the taste buds swirling on the Wine Trail; practice your swing at some of our stunning courses on the Golf Trail, or, if you’re a keen art and crafter, follow the Art Trail and be amazed by the awesome talent.
The Twin Coast Discovery Highway begins in Auckland and travels north, tracing both coasts to Cape Reinga at the top of the island.
Savour the scenery
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We have lots of open spaces in Northland, but also quite a few narrow, winding roads, so ease your feet off the accelerator, slow down and savour the scenery. Delve into the heart of New Zealand’s first land, where one-lane bridges and a quieter pace will have you thinking you’ve stepped back in time. Get adventurous, take a drive off the main road - you never know what you may find.
Enjoy the peaceful nature sanctuary of Trounson Kauri Park, the exquisite crystal clear Kai Iwi Lakes and deep scent of our native trees as you wind your way through the magical Waipoua Forest, home to Tane Mahuta, New Zealand’s largest kauri tree.
Or kick back in the twin towns of Omapere and Opononi nestled on the picturesque Hokianga Harbour - where you can surf the sand dunes, kayak on the harbour, tuck into some fish and chips on the beach or just enjoy some real Maori culture.
Hop on a car ferry between the historic towns of Rawene and Kohukohu or drive inland and take a hike among giant boulders in a hidden valley before indulging in a long, healing soak in the Ngawha Hot Springs.
Cape Reinga - where the spirits depart
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At the southern end of 90 Mile Beach is Ahipara, its unspoiled sandy beaches curving their way up the Far North’s western shoreline almost to Cape Reinga. Take a ride on the wild side along Ninety Mile Beach before chilling out for a fabulous west coast sunset.
Farewell the spirits of the departed while embracing the beauty of two oceans colliding at our most northernmost point, Cape Reinga, before heading south and immersing yourself in the beauty of our more genteel east coast bays.
Take a tiki-tour (detour) to Matauri Bay where the sculptured memorial to the Greenpeace flagship, the Rainbow Warrior, stands proud and strong atop the hill and pa site overlooking the ill-fated ship’s final resting place, now a renowned dive site.
Whether you fancy a thrilling adventure or perfect peace, the world really is your oyster at the stunning Bay of Islands where amazing beaches, magical islands and water-based activities abound in this aquatic wonderland.
The spectacular Whangarei Falls
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Remember to keep those eyes peeled … we know there’s so much to see, and so little time … but you don’t want to miss out on the Kawiti Glow Worm Caves, the world-famous Hundertwasser Toilets, and bay after spectacular bay along the Tutukaka and Whangarei coastlines.
Come alive in the bustle of Whangarei’s Quayside Town Basin overlooking the marina, where you can tuck into some tasty café fare, watch some class glass blowing, pick up some quality souvenirs, have a quick game of chess on the large outdoor board and then walk your lunch off with a stroll along the river boardwalk to the stunning Waka and Wave sculpture.
The small Scottish community of Waipu will have you reaching for a whiskey as you learn of our kilted past.
Life’s more than a beach at Mangawhai – there’s actually five of them within 15 minutes along this stunning coastline, all offering magical vistas, beautiful walkways, and of course great swimming, diving, fishing and whatever other water-based activity you can throw in.
One thing’s for sure whatever you choose - you can find it all from the Twin Coast Discovery Highway.
These driving times will help you to plan your self-drive discovery of Northland.
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