Hokianga Region
Just a three-hour drive north of Auckland lies the Hokianga, a breathtaking estuarine harbour on the North Island's west coast, also known as the Hokianga River. This captivating region is steeped in history, having been inhabited by the Ngāpuhi for centuries before European arrival in the early 19th century. Despite a colourful past of early, often reluctant, settlers, Hokianga holds the distinction of hosting New Zealand's first Catholic mass.
While its impressive sandbar restricts access to small boats, this fourth-largest harbour in New Zealand opens up to 20 kilometres of navigable waters inland. On the northern shore, colossal, ever-shifting sand dunes, reaching up to 200 metres, invite adventurous spirits for thrilling descents.
The charming seaside towns of Omapere and Opononi offer a relaxed escape with holiday homes, craft shops, cafes, and local pubs. Further inland, the historic town of Rawene, with its unique cantilevered wooden buildings over the harbour, serves as a vital ferry point. Catching the Rawene ferry saves approximately an hour on your journey north to Kaitaia, allowing you more time to immerse yourself in the Hokianga's rich tapestry of culture, history, and stunning natural beauty.
Twilight Waipoua Encounter
Be introduced to the oldest and largest known kauri trees in the world. These sentinels have stood silently witnessing the passing of time. Culture and Nature collide here in a sensory experience of a lifetime. Footprints Waipoua is 1 of only 2 NZ and 82 Global Lonely Planet Code Green Experiences of a Lifetime. It is truly an intimate encounter with giant kauri trees who have stood silently witnessing the passing of time. Witness the transition of time and space as the sun sets on an ancient theatre.
Manea Footprints of Kupe Guided Tour
Enter Te Hokianga-nui-a-Kupe, our sacred cradle of tribal histories. Walk in the footprints of the Maori ancestor – Kupe the intrepid, Kupe the voyager, Kupe the discoverer.
Experience a Pōwhiri (welcome ceremony) and other rituals and customs experienced through interaction with the descendants of Kupe. Explore the contemporary cultural centre with carvings and artefacts holding the stories of the past, giving you incredible insight into the history of Aotearoa.