The Twin Coast Discovery Highway is an 800 km circular touring route around the Northland Region, in the north of the North Island of New Zealand. taking in all of the best that the north has to offer.

You will need at least a week to even start to appreciate the diverseness of this region while travelling The Twin Coast Discovery Highway. There are many side roads and by-ways off the route that need to be checked out. There are thousands of amazing beaches and magnificent landscapes to be appreciated. Take your time, stop and chat with the friendly locals. Indulge yourself in Northlands activities, for an experience you will never forget.

The circular Twin Coast Discovery Highway starts in Auckland on State Highway One, heading north from there you will pass through the rapidly growing, seaside town of Orewa. Just a couple of km north of Orewa is Waiwera, with thermal hot-pools situated beside the beach. A little further north you will come across the Mahurangi Regional Park, it has some lovely beaches and nice short walks.

After looking around Wellsford, you can head east off the route to Mangawhai and follow this stunning coast to the small Scottish settlement of Waipu. Next is Whangarei the main centre of Northland. The Tutukaka coast drive is well worth the detour as is the drive out to the Whangarei Heads.

North of Whangarei you can either stay on the Discovery Highway to Kawakawa, or 6 km after Hikurangi turn right down Old Russel Road and follow the coast through to Russell, in the Bay of Islands.

When you have seen and done all that The Bay of Islands has to offer, head for Kerikeri the home of New Zealands oldest stone building and the fruit growing capital of the north. Next on the itinerary is the Whangaroa harbour, Mangonui Harbour and Doubtless Bay. The Karikari Peninsula with Matai Bay is a beautiful area, with abundant birdlife and beautiful beaches.

Then The Twin Coast Discovery Highway goes west to Kaitia, which is the gateway to The Far North and Ninety Mile Beach, Cape Reinga, Spirits Bay and three magnificent Harbours.

West of Kaitia is Ahipara and the stunning Shipwrecks Bay. Following the route south you will pass through forgotten countryside to the Hokianga Harbour, the home of Maoridom and the local Nga Puhi Maori tribe. You will have to ferry across the harbour from Kohu Kohu on the north side to Rawene, then the route follows State Highway 12 to Opua then south to the Waipua Forest where the magnificent Kauri tree, Tane Mahuta stands a short walk from the road.

Staying on SH 12 south to the old milling town of Dargaville, then the route returns to Whangarei. Another option is to head south from Dargaville on SH 12 skirting the top of the Kaipara Harbour joining SH1 at the Brynderwyns.