Like so many New Zealand towns, Kaitaia has a rich cultural heritage. When it comes to entertaining visitors, Kaitaia definitely has a few tricks up its sleeve. From visiting Ninety Mile Beach to wine-tasting, there are so many unique things to do in Kaitaia.
The Maori gave the town its name based on the numerous species of birdlife. Wildlife in general, and numerous other natural wonders, have since put Kaitaia on the map. Visitors will enjoy experiencing hints of Maori culture and heritage in Kaitaia and even have the opportunity to take a few Maori treasures home with them. But whether you take home an armful of souvenirs or not, your trip to Kaitaia won't be easy to forget.
Getting in and around Kaitaia
Kaitaia Airport
Thanks to recent upgrades to Kaitaia Airport, getting to Kaitaia is easier than ever. The Kaitaia Airport offers regular flights from Auckland that last around one hour in travel time. International travellers will need to fly to Auckland before connecting to Kaitaia. Driving to Kaitaia from Auckland is also a possibility as it's only four and a half hours away. There are also regular bus routes to and from Kaitaia from Auckland.
Kaitaia Transport
Kaitaia is a small town, so getting around Kaitaia is best done by car or by foot.
Kaitaia Car Hire
Car hire in Kaitaia is readily available. At the nearby Kaitaia Airport, Kaitaia car hire is available through local companies and larger companies like Hertz and Budget. You can even arrange to rent 4WD vehicles at the airport and head straight for Ninety Mile Beach.
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Kaitaia accommodation
Kaitaia tourists will be pleased to know that the majority of Kaitaia hotels are in a price range that most can afford and are generally budget-friendly. There are also a few higher-end hotels that are perfect for designing a luxury vacation around Kaitaia.
Luxury
The Carrington Estate, only 30 minutes from Kaitaia, promises a relaxing stay on a beautiful golf course and ocean views from your elegant villa.
Golden Sand Beachfront Accommodation in nearby Cable Bay offers a nice range of private accommodation right off the beach. The Corpthorne Hotel and Resort in nearby Hokianga boasts breezy ambience and waterfront views for a relaxing hotel experience.
The Carrington Hotel lays all of the luxuries of Kaitaia at your feet. Enjoy a relaxing day on the beautiful golf course and ocean views for your elegant villa.
Mid-range
The Wayfarer Motel allows you to customise your stay by offering a variety of rooms for families and suites for those in search of a more luxurious stay.
The Orana Motor Inn is delightfully comfortable and unique with affordable prices. Guests love the onsite restaurant and sparkling pool area. The Northerner Motor Inn allows you to customize your stay by offering a variety of rooms for families and superior rooms for those in search of a more luxurious stay.
The Orana Motor Inn is delightfully comfortable and unique with affordable prices. Guests love the onsite restaurant and sparkling pool area.
Budget
Waters Edge B&B is set amongst tropical gardens and situated on the Awanui River. The Mangonui Hotel overlooks the water and has numerous amenities that travellers love.
Backpackers
Beachcomber Lodge and Backpacker has a range of accommodation options to suit all budget needs. Waitawa Farm Accommodation promises a unique backpacker's experience with quiet farm-like surroundings.
The North Wind Lodge makes you feel like a guest in a friend's home with cosy accommodations and attentive service.
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Things to do in Kaitaia
Kaitaia is in a league of its own among other nearby tourist destinations.
Ninety Mile Beach is one of the most impressive stretches of oceanfront in New Zealand. It's so long that bus tours are available to take in every inch of the beautiful site.
Cape Reinga is a popular destination for tourists with its rugged peaks and charming lighthouse. The site is also an important location for the local Maori culture.
Far North Regional Museum is a unique destination. The museum has a collection that features the Far North District and includes treasures such as pounamu, carvings and a 500 year old skeleton of a Kuri.
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Day trips around Kaitaia
Okahu Estate. Enjoy the flavours of the local wine industry at one of the region's largest wineries. Take a tour and enjoy a tasting while the estate is open daily during the summertime.
Hokianga. The town of Hokianga is a two-hour drive away from Kaitaia but features a great many natural and historical attractions that make it well worth the drive.
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