Welcome to Whakatane
S ome of the region’s most intriguing wildlife, impressive landscapes and fascinating history make Whakatāne, and Ōhope attractive destinations for visitors to the East Coast. It is also Bay of Plenty’s sunshine capital and cultural hub. Local Māori believe New Zealand was first discovered more than 1,000 years ago by Tiwakawaka, who settled his people in what is now Whakatāne. The town takes pride in its rich Māori history and is a great place to enjoy authentic cultural experiences.
For detailed info on the Whakatane District visit the friendly Whakatane i-site staff for advice and free brochure on activities and sights including walking, historic sites and more.
A must visit in Whakatane is “The Heads”. Travel east from the i-site, past the wharf & fishing club, you will find The Heads where the Whakatane River meets the sea. Across the river, a bronze statue of Wairaka stands atop the largest rock (see photo page 9). This commemorates her courageous defiance of tradition which not only saved the Mataatua waka but gave the town and district its name. Returning towards the town centre, along the road is Muriwai's cave. Muriwai was an aunt of Wairaka and lived in the cave in the latter part of her life. A famed priestess, her advice was much sought after.
For detailed info on the Whakatane District visit the friendly Whakatane i-site staff for advice and free brochure on activities and sights including walking, historic sites and more.
A must visit in Whakatane is “The Heads”. Travel east from the i-site, past the wharf & fishing club, you will find The Heads where the Whakatane River meets the sea. Across the river, a bronze statue of Wairaka stands atop the largest rock (see photo page 9). This commemorates her courageous defiance of tradition which not only saved the Mataatua waka but gave the town and district its name. Returning towards the town centre, along the road is Muriwai's cave. Muriwai was an aunt of Wairaka and lived in the cave in the latter part of her life. A famed priestess, her advice was much sought after.
WHAKATANE ACCOMODATION
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Alton Lodge Motel
76 Domain Rd. Spacious units. Indoor Pool. Free wifi. Sky TV, Air Conditioning. Laundry BBQ, Outdoor area. Plenty of parking. P: 0800 425 866 |
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Awa Motel
Contemporary motel accommodation with 39 rooms. Onsite Café, free WiFi, laundry and BBQs. Departure point for Moutohora Island Tours. |
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Beachpoint Apartments
5 West End, Ohope. Sublime beachfront apartments. P: 0800 BEACHPOINT E: [email protected] |
WHAKATANE CAFE'S
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Café Awa
A large selection of tasty and wholesome food freshly prepared onsite. Free WiFi. Indoor & outdoor seating. P: 0800 733 529. |
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Whakatāne Turf Bar
7 James St, Kopeopeo. Open 7 days from 10am |
WHAKATANE ACTIVITIES
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Diveworks Charters
Dolphin & Seal Encounters. Whale Island Guided Walks. Fishing & Dive Trips. Ph Phil or Steph. P: 0800 354 7737 |
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Rangitaiki & Motu Jet Boat Tours
Adventure & excitement. Suitable for all ages. Ecological & Historical Commentary. Bookings Essential. Ph Mark 027 4707315. |
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Whakamax
99 The Strand. Ph 07 308 7625. Check out our website www.whakamax.co.nz to see what is “Now Playing” “Coming Soon” “Special Events” and more! |
View from “The Heads” of “The Lady on the Rock - Wairaka” with Whale Island in the background.
- Courtesy of Whakatāne i-Site.
There are two routes from Whakatane to Ōpōtiki, one via Taneatua, the gateway to Te Urewera which is a very enjoyable drive for those with more time. The more popular & shorter coastal route is described below.
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50km
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Whakatane to Opotiki via Ohope Beach and Ohiwa Harbour on the Pacific Coast Highway
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Nil
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This route is the most direct and most used, start from the town centre, by travelling south along Commerce Street, turning left up the Mokoroa Gorge. There is an alternative route north along the Strand turning right at the hotel and then right up the ridge to Hillcrest. This steep section is not recommended for vehicles towing but does provide good views of Whale Island and the Whakatāne Heads. The two routes then merge and head for Ōhope. Before the descent, the view of East Cape, the Eastern Bay of Plenty, Ōhope Beach and Mt Hikurangi on a clear day, is worth a pause. At the bottom of the hill as you enter Ōhope on the right is the entranceway to Ōhope Scenic Reserve which features a traditional carved entranceway. The reserve itself is home to a large number of kiwi protected by the Whakatāne Kiwi Project.
