Kaikohe, located west of the Bay of Islands, offers a perfect stopover for refreshments on the Twin Coast Discovery Highway. The town's name, a contraction of Kaikohekohe, means "to eat the berries of the kohekohe tree," though it can also imply a yearning for food.

Monument Hill provides stunning views and is a lovely spot for a picnic. Kaikohe is renowned for its Pioneer Village, which features several restored historic buildings, including New Zealand’s oldest courthouse from 1862, an 1875 cottage, a jail, and a school. The village also displays Māori artifacts, gum-digging equipment, and a blacksmith’s shop.

A key historical figure connected to Kaikohe is Hone Heke, the first signatory to the Treaty of Waitangi, known for his role in the flagstaff protest. Heke, who passed away in 1850, has left a lasting legacy in the area.

The Pioneer Village showcases the region's rich history with attractions such as the Maioha Cottage from 1875, Utakura Hall and School from 1891, and various collections including Māori artifacts, gum-digging tools, and blacksmith equipment. Notable exhibits include New Zealand’s only surviving Albion Cuthbertson Water Buffalo, a restored 1901 Burrell Steam Locomotive, and a range of agricultural machinery. Visitors can enjoy rides on a diesel train carriage, a 1901 Grout cycle car, a 1936 Leyland fire engine, and the 1901 Burrell Steam Traction engine.

Nearby, Monument Road features the Hone Heke Memorial Park, where you can explore tributes to Heke and admire an impressive array of Māori carvings. Kaikohe offers a deep dive into New Zealand’s history, making it a must-visit destination.