Cook to Kupe
5 Night e-bike Tour

Cycle Tours

Cook to Kupe 5 night Cycle Tour

A 5 night e-bike tour cycling Coast to Coast taking you on a scenically spectacular journey from the Bay of Islands on the East Coast to Hokianga Harbour on the West. 

This bicycle tour showcases the best of the North – we traverse The Pou Herenga Tai Twin Coast Cycle Trail, and explore further visiting small towns with quirky art galleries, kauri forests, taking ferry and boat rides, visiting NZ’s iconic attractions, along with wonderful  sights and experiences that only the locals know about!  

Accompanied with boutique accommodation, delicious food, and our personal service, this tour has been described as world class.

Bicycle Tours - Our Cook to Kupe Tour Map

Tour Dates - Price - Itinerary

Tour Availability

  • Mon 9 December – 2 spaces 
  • Mon 16 December – 2 spaces
  • Mon 13 January  –  1 spaces
  • Sun  9th February –  1 spaces
  • Mon 10 February – Full
  • Mon 17 February – Full
  • Mon 24 February – Full
  • Mon 3rd March – Full
  • Sun  9th March – Full
  • Mon 10th March – Full
  • Mon 17th March – Full
  • Mon 24th March – Full
  • Mon 31st Marck – 10 spaces
  • Mon  7th April –  10 spaces
  • Mon  14th April – 10 spaces
  • Mon   21st April – 10 spaces
  • Mon  28th April – 7 spaces

If the date you want is full, please still ask us, as we may be able to do an additional tours  contact us

 Enquire now

All inclusive tours – all you need to do is book

  • 5 nights quality accommodation – twin/double share. Single supplement available.
  • Meals – Breakfast, lunch, dinner. From lunch on your first day to dinner on the 5th night.
  • Meals are a mix of lovely cafes, award winning restaurants and picnic lunches. 
  • The food is of a high quality and we cater for all dietary requirements.
  • E-Bikes – we have a new fleet of quality Sinch (Jaunt 2) e-bikes that are kept in peak condition, and serviced after every tour.
  • All mini bus transfers during the tour.
  • The Ranui Boat ride on the Hokianga Harbour.
  • Ferry rides in Hokianga and Bay of Islands.
  • Fully Supported Tour – with Tour leader escorting you with a luxury minibus – Tours are not guided whilst cycling, but our tour leader is nearby if you need a hand, meeting you along the way and at the end of the day. 
  • The minibus carries coffee, tea, hot chocolate, juice, water and snacks.  If you need a break you can always hop back in the van and put your bike on the trailer.  
  • Entry and tours;

                 – Waitangi Treaty Grounds
                 – Footprints Waipoua Twilight Forest
                 – Wairere Boulders
                 – Pompallier Mission and Printery
                 – Hundertwasser Park Centre – Te Hononga
                 – Manea Footprints of Kupe

 Tour Price 

Price per person NZ$3,700 (incl GST) in a twin / double 

Single Supplement NZ$600 (incl GST)

Note; Not included Alcohol, extra drinks etc.  Accommodation may change subject to availability

Around 150km cycling over 5 days

Day 1 – 40km cycling.

Traverse from Paihia, Bay of Islands to Horeke, Hokianga
Harbour.  

Setting the scene for your week starting with a visit to the award winning Waitangi Treaty Grounds, this site is a cherished national gem, narrating the rich tapestry of our nation’s history.  Travelling by minibus from Paihia to Kaikohe, you’ll then embark on a picturesque off-road cycling journey on the Twin Coast Cycle Trail to the to the Hokianga Harbour. Our accommodation in a historic lodge which boasts delightful views of the harbour, accompanied by home-cooked meals and captivating sunsets.

Day 2 – 25km cycling. 

Escape the ordinary and venture into uncharted territory with a day of cycling, hiking, and a leisurely boat ride. Our journey begins with a pedal to a secluded nature reserve showcasing internationally renowned geological rock formations, offering a beautiful bushwalk experience. Next, we’ll cycle to Māngungu House, a remarkable historic site perched majestically
overlooking the harbour. Here, history comes alive as we stand at the very spot where the largest signing of the Treaty of Waitangi in the country unfolded, witnessed by a crowd of up to 3,000 people, with over 70 chiefs adding their assent.

We’ll then board the historic Ranui ferry, traversing the tranquil waters of the Harbour to Kohukohu, where we’ll use our electric bikes to get around a lesser-known loop road for incredible views. Upon our return via the car ferry to Rawene, a quaint town bursting with quirky art galleries, and a wealth of history, awaits your discovery. 

For two nights,  we stay at a hotel on the edge of the Hokianga Harbour with breathtaking views of the sand dunes. 

Day 3 – 24km cycling.

Embark on a morning of exploration astride our trusty bikes as we traverse the quiet back roads. Our journey leads us to Arai te Uru – South Head, offering panoramic views of the grand entrance to the majestic Hokianga Harbour where Kupe landed around 1000 years ago. Carrying on from there to the cascading beauty of Waiotemarama Falls. Our cycling adventure culminates in Opononi, just in time for lunch at the recently unveiled Manea – Footprints of Kupe Cultural Centre. This hidden gem has earned global recognition, securing its spot among Time Magazine’s prestigious top 100 destinations for 2021.

In the evening, immerse yourself in a captivating experience as we pay homage to the towering kauri tree, Tane Mahuta, during the Footprints Waipoua Forest Twilight Tour. This enchanting journey is replete with compelling narratives, engaging humour, and spine-tingling chants, offering a profound glimpse into the cultural tapestry of the region.

There is the option this day to not cycle.  Walk, relax, or discuss extra activities with your Tour Leader.

Day 4 – 34km cycling.  

Returning to the East Coast via the Twin Coast Cycle Trail, you’ll pedal through picturesque forestry, undulating farmland, and across suspension bridges, until you reach the vibrant town of Kawakawa. Just a few kilometre’s away from Kawakawa, you’ll board a vintage train that seamlessly connects to the final part of the trail, treating you to a delightful 20-minute ride. Continuing your journey, cycling along the river into the marina village of Opua.

From here it’s a 10 minute trip on the car ferry and a short ride in the minibus to the charming village of Russell. Once known as a Māori settlement, before it transformed into a hub for European traders, whalers, and missionaries during the early 1800s – earning the name Hell Hole of the Pacific.

Your lodging awaits at the renowned Duke of Marlborough Hotel, nestled along the waterfront. Indulge in an exquisite dining experience at the Duke’s award-winning restaurant, whilst enjoying views of yet another glorious sunset over the waters.

Day 5 – 20km cycling.

Travelling from Russell to Kerikeri – you have plenty of time and options to explore the area – on foot or by bike.  Lovely accommodation in peaceful grounds, all the rooms have a spa bath so perfect to relax in after a busy week.

The tour comes to an end with a celebratory meal at a local restaurant in Kerikeri that evening. 

Day 6 – the tour has finished…but….

For those with a leisurely pace in mind, consider visiting The Old Packhouse Market or the renowned Makana Chocolate Factory. The Packhouse Market boasts an array of local produce, dining options, artisan crafts, plants, and live music—a delightful opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture. These attractions are conveniently just a few minutes’ walk down the hotel’s driveway.

In Kerikeri, there’s even more to discover. Explore the historic Stone Store Basin, take a scenic stroll to Rainbow Falls, peruse the art galleries and craft shops, or indulge in wine tasting at the local vineyards.

If you’re inclined to extend your stay and delve deeper into the area, we’re here to assist with arranging accommodation and crafting a tailored itinerary to meet your preferences.

5 star reviews

Highlight of our NZ Trip
My husband and I recently did the 5 day Cook to Kupe Cycling Tour on EBikes with Northland Experience. Everything about the trip was fantastic from the team behind the scenes who put it all together, the bikes comfortable, easy to use and well maintained, our gregarious guide Ropata was exceptional, accommodation was great and all the meals fabulous. We learnt so much about Māori Culture, all about the kauri trees of the northlands and took in so many wonderful sights! The tracks we rode on were beside rivers, through farmland, up and down hills, headlands and rail trails. Such an enjoyable experience with our fellow cyclists and Ropata who made it so amusing but educational and poignant also.
Kathie Sept 2024

Come join us

Join us on an e-bike tour rich in history, culture, scenery, quirky towns, fascinating locals, boutique accommodation, gastronomical delights, and enchanting Northland.

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