Kaitaia – Northland

Kaitaia is a welcoming town at the northern tip of New Zealand’s North Island. It’s the ideal base for exploring the remote and spectacular Cape Reinga, where the Tasman Sea meets the Pacific Ocean. Visitors can enjoy adventures along Ninety Mile Beach, sandboarding on massive dunes, and exploring nearby forests. Kaitaia also offers a rich cultural experience, with strong Māori heritage, arts, and traditions.

History

Kaitaia’s history is deeply rooted in Māori culture, being home to the Ngāti Kahu iwi. European missionaries settled here in the 1830s, establishing Kaitaia as a center for early agriculture and trade. Its name derives from "Kai" (food) and "Tāia" (to chop), referencing the region's fertile lands and traditional food gathering. Today, Kaitaia blends cultural heritage with adventure tourism.

What To See

• Cape Reinga
• Ninety Mile Beach
• Te Paki Sand Dunes
• Ancient Kauri Kingdom
• Ahipara Beach
• Herekino Forest
• Houhora Heads
• Māori Cultural Experiences.