Frequently Asked Questions

These are some of the most popular questions that we have received, in regards to the Pacific Coast Highway and the guide itself. The Pacific Coast Highway Guide provides you with plenty of information to ensure that your journey around the East Cape is as pleasant as possible.
Just click on a question below to reveal the response, then click on the question again to close the response.

What is the Pacific Coast Highway?

The Pacific Coast Highway is a stretch of highway on the eastern side of the North Island in New Zealand (on the side of the Pacific Ocean). The Pacific Coast Highway actually begins in Auckland and ends in Napier/Hastings. The journey showcases some of New Zealands most spectacular sites when some of the most breath-taking scenery you will ever encounter.

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How long does it take to travel?

Whakatane to Opotiki 50km - 40 minutes
Opotiki to Gisborne 333km - 6 hours
Gisborne to Napier 216km - 3 hours
Ideally you would want to allow plenty of time to take in all the beautiful sights that the Pacific Coast Highway has to offer. Although it can be covered in a marathon 1 day journey, you might want to plan 2-3 days to get the most out of the trip.

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Where do I get a copy of the PCHG?

There are plenty of places in the Bay of Plenty that carry free copies of the Pacific Coast Highway Guide such as the i-SITE centres, selected super markets, most shops in Opotiki and all the places listed in the guide. There is also a digital copy that you can download to your mobile device on this website.

How long is the Pacific Coast Highway?

The Pacific Coast Highway, covered in this guide, covers from Whakatane (B.O.P) along the East Coast to Napier/Hastings. Total distance is 599km.

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What about Petrol Stations?

Before commencing your journey, you are advised to fill your vehicle up at St John Street Caltex where food and petrol is available 24/7.
Once you leave Opotiki, there is a 24 hour petrol station in Tirohanga and Petrol is also available at the Omaio Store in Omaio.
Eastern Store at Te Araroa, Hikurangi  Four Square at Ruatoria and Tokomaru Bay Four Square at Tokomaru Bay all have 24 hour petrol and diesel. Some of the 24 hour pumps only run Diesel and 91 petrol so if you are on your your expensive 96 Octane only machine or in your private helicoptor, ensure you fill when high octane is available.

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Can I place an ad in the PCHG?

Simply go to our Contact page and fill in your details. It's that simple. Once we receive your message, we will contact you.
If you should have any other questions, then please feel free to contact us and we will be more than happy to answer your questions for you.

What is cell-phone coverage like?

Cell-phone coverage is quite limited on the Pacific Coast Highway and can be a bit hit-n-miss. The locals know all the best spots for cell-phone coverage so do not be shy to ask the locals for the best places to get a signal.

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How much is the PCHG?

The Pacific Coast Highway Guide is FREE!
The Pacific Coast Highway Guide is produced, published and presented with the compliments of the Opotiki & District 10,000 Club Incorporated, P O Box 23, Opotiki. The club acknowledges the assistance of all those who have helped with photographs or content. New content material or suggested additions to this guide are welcomed. Please contact the Editor at P O Box 23, Opotiki.
All content of the guide and our website is copyright to the Opotiki & District 10,000 Club Inc.
and may not be used without prior consent.

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