Drives Northland, New Zealand Northland
Hokianga: Opononi to Kaikohe
SH 12, Hokianga Harbour Drive, Waiotemarama Gorge Road · Opononi → Kaikohe
The drive
This is the inland leg of the Hokianga: State Highway 12 from Opononi and Ōmāpere, at the mouth of the Hokianga Harbour, to Kaikohe, the Far North's crossroads town. It is 61 km (38 mi) and takes about an hour and ten minutes, mostly because the bends rarely stop.
The drive starts beside the water and then follows the highway as it turns up the harbour's Omanaia River arm and climbs away from the coast into forest and farmland. Kaikohe is where State Highway 12 shares a short stretch with State Highway 15, and it is a natural place to turn for the Bay of Islands.
It continues from the Kauri Coast drive, which ends at Opononi, so the two make a long day together.
Along the way
- Opononi
- Ōmāpere
- Kaikohe
Good to know
- The corners are tight and frequent, so allow more time than the distance suggests.
- Slips have closed roads in South Hokianga in the past, so check NZTA's journey planner after heavy rain.
Open all year, weather permitting. Roads close for snow, fire, storms and repairs: before you set off, check NZTA Journey Planner.
Questions about this drive
How long does Hokianga from Opononi to Kaikohe take?
State Highway 12 from Opononi to Kaikohe is 61 km (38 mi) and takes about 1 hr 10 min.
Is State Highway 12 through Hokianga twisty?
Yes, the road has near-constant bends and one especially twisty stretch, so it is slower than the distance suggests.
Where does the Hokianga drive connect to the Kauri Coast?
The Kauri Coast drive on State Highway 12 ends at Opononi, where this Hokianga drive begins and carries on to Kaikohe.
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More drives near here
Distance, time, elevation, curves and intensity are from Carve's route. Checked 2026-10-28.