Kaihu: Trail, Kauri history and rural life

Kaihu is a small rural settlement shaped by the Kaihu Valley Trail and its Kauri history. The trail passes through the farming landscape of the Kaihu Valley and follows the Kaihu River in places. The settlement of Kaihu is currently at its northern end. There are no larger shops in town—a useful point to consider when planning your accommodation and daily itinerary.

Exploring the Kaihu Valley Trail

The first stage of the Kaihu Valley Trail covers 30 km from Dargaville to Kaihu. Another official route description lists the Mamaranui–Kaihu section as a 20 km return trip. So when planning, the route format matters as well as the distance: the 30 km connects Dargaville with Kaihu, while the 20 km is specifically described as a return trip. This lets you choose the route that best fits your travel plans.

The Kaihu Valley Trail is part of the Heartland Rides/Kauri Coast Cycleway and the Twin Coast Discovery Highway. Its history goes back to a railway line that it generally follows: built in 1896 to serve the Kauri industry between Dargaville and Donnellys Crossing. The opening of the first stage is also part of the trail’s history. It was celebrated on a Saturday, 10 June, with a blessing and the cutting of the opening ribbon by Ahikiwi Marae.

Kauri history and culture in Kaihu

Nelson's Kaihu Kauri Gallery showcases wood art, pottery, blown glass, greenstone and paua. It is located in Kaihu on State Highway 12. For those interested in crafts, this variety of materials offers a different way to experience the region than the historic railway line and its connection to the Kauri industry.

Two historic places are also part of the local landscape, though they have different status designations. Kaihu Tavern is a Category 2 listed historic place. It is privately owned and not open to the public. Kaihu Catholic Church on Wood Road is listed as a Category A protected item in the current Kaipara District Plan.

Natural attractions in the Kaipara District

The Kai Iwi Lakes are located in a 538-hectare recreation reserve in the Kaipara District. These white-sand freshwater dune lakes are known for their clear water. The lakes are near Kaihu, where there are two popular campsites; availability may vary. Possible activities at the lakes include swimming, kayaking, fishing, boating and water skiing. Check conditions and applicable safety requirements before taking part in water activities.

Trounson Kauri Park is another part of the Kaipara District’s natural landscape. The 586-hectare reserve contains an impressive stand of Kauri trees. Since 1995, it has been managed as a Mainland Island, with the aim of restoring native biodiversity and giving visitors a sense of what original Kauri forests are like. Threatened species in the park include the North Island brown kiwi, kūkupa, pekapeka bats and Kauri snails.

Considering Kaihu as a place to stay

If you are looking for a hotel or other accommodation in Kaihu, factor in the town’s rural character when making your decision: Kaihu is small and has no larger shops. The nearest petrol station to Trounson Kauri Park is 9 km south, in Kaihu.

Explore more destinations

Explore more destinations: Paparoa, Mangawhai, Kaiwaka, Baylys Beach, Donnellys Crossing, Dargaville, Maungaturoto

Back to the main travel overview: Kaipara District.