The Gateway to the Far North, Kaitaia is the last major settlement heading North on State Highway One.
Kaitaia is 310km North of Auckland, located at the base of the Aupouri Peninsula. Kaitaia is the perfect place to begin exploring Northland and all it has to offer.
Rich in history and culture, the area was one of the first parts of New Zealand that Maori and European Settlers called home. You can learn how early settlers lived and worked in the area at the Far North Regional Museum at the Te Ahu centre, Gum Diggers Park and Matthews Vintage Collection.
Explore New Zealand’s natural history at the Ancient Kauri Kingdom and visit Tane Mahuta, the “Lord of the Forest” a towering 2500-year-old Kauri tree, on the Kauri Walk through Waipoua Forest.
Why not head North on the Twin Coasts discovery Highway or via 90 Mile beach, to the Tip of the north island, Cape Reinga? There you will see the meeting of the Pacific Ocean and the Tasman Sea in spectacular swirl of currents and mixing of light and dark colours. An ancient pohutukawa tree and a lonely lighthouse mark this special place. Māori tradition describes that is here that after death, all Māori spirits gather for their final journey returning to the land of their ancestors, Hawaiiki-A-Nu.
All visitors should stop by the Houhora Tavern, the last pub on the road north and take a tour along 90 Mile Beach, New Zealand’s longest stretch of beach. 90 Mile Beach is classed as a Road and has been used as a runway and alternative to state highway one. You can explore the vast dunes by horse quad bike 4WD or Bus.
The name Kaitaia means ample food, kai being the Māori word for food. Whether you book a fishing charter, visit the region’s vineyards or enjoy some of the other local cuisine on offer, you will not be disappointed. For a great kiwi favourite, stop by the Mangōnui fish and chip shop for best fish and chips around.
There are endless activities to partake in here. Mountain biking, bush walks, scuba diving, snorkelling, bird watching, golf, fishing, kayak tours, day cruises, to name but-a few.
If relaxing is more your style - never more than 40kms from the coast your will have the your pick of beaches and coves on which to put down your towel and kick back with a book, or take a dip in the clear blue waters. Visits to Taupo, Spirits and Doubtless Bays are a must.
There are many types of accommodation available, pop a tent at Maitai Bay Department of Conservation campsite for a great Kiwi camping experience or unwind at a luxury resort with a round of golf or a game of tennis.