Katikati, the ‘mural town’, is located at the western edge of the Bay of Plenty, midway between Waihi and Tauranga. This gateway town is a popular stop along the Pacific Coast Highway and has developed a reputation for the more than 40 colourful murals on buildings along the main street, many of them depicting local heritage. Katikati is also the service centre for a richly productive agricultural region – fresh, locally grown avocados and kiwifruit are just some of the treats available – and the gentle climate also nurtures beautiful gardens.

Sights & Destinations in Katikati

Main Street murals

Katikai has earned the nickname ‘the mural town’ for the murals that adorn the buildings along the main street. The tradition began in the 1990s and there are now more than 40 of them. There are also an increasing number of sculptures and other public artworks in the town.

Katikati Bird Gardens

Dating back to 1976, the Katikati Bird Gardens on the outskirts of town offer 10 acres of beautiful gardens with views to the harbour. There are several species of native birds on display and the gardens are easily accessible by sealed pathways. There’s also an onsite café.

Kaimai-Mamaku Forest Park

Situated in the Kaimai Ranges of the western Bay of Plenty, this forest park offers stunning scenery – from lush rainforest thickly carpeted with ferns to majestic Kauri trees and waterfalls. There are numerous walks to enjoy – from short strolls to multi-day hikes.

Activities in Katikati

Walking and hiking

Walk the Haiku Pathway – a two-kilometre trail along the Uretara River. Lines of carefully selected Haiku verse have been carved into stones along the way. Head to the nearby Kaimai-Mamaku Forest Park for numerous walks ranging from short strolls to multi-day hikes.

Culture and heritage

On summer evenings, Katikati frequently hosts open-air concerts featuring jazz, classical and contemporary music. Athenree Homestead offers a glimpse of settler life in the 1870s – in an ongoing project, this beautiful heritage home is being gradually restored to its former glory.

Art and craft

As well as the open-air artworks adorning the main street, local creativity finds an outlet in numerous local art and craft studios. Pick up a Katikati Art & Craft Trail pamphlet from the Katikati Information Centre and explore the studios of 34 local artists.

Wine-tasting

Sample the latest vintage at Morton Estate Winery. There’s a café on-site and cellar door sales are available.