At the eastern end of the Bay of Plenty lies the coastal town of Whakatane. Enjoying a natural setting that abounds with breathtaking natural landscapes – including one of New Zealand’s most iconic natural sights – Whakatane is a hugely popular Kiwi holiday destination. The town itself has a charmingly laid-back ambience and a main street offering numerous bars and eateries. Just minutes from town there are glorious white-sand beaches to discover and clearly visible offshore lies White Island (Whakaari) – one of the most accessible active volcanoes in the world! Inland, Te Uruwera National Park is also easily within easy reach and this immense tract of native forest is the setting for great hiking, horse-trekking, fishing and other adventures.

Sights & Destinations in Whakatane

White Island

White Island (Whakaari) is an amazing site – an active volcano on an island just 50 kilometres offshore from Whakatane. Visitors can get even closer to the action with a flight-seeing adventure by helicopter or fixed-wing plane.

Ohope Beach

Just over the hill, eleven kilometres from Whakatane, is the gorgeous seaside settlement of Ohope Beach. A hugely popular summer holiday spot for Kiwis, the population swells over the summer months. A long stretch of white-sand beach is the irresistible drawcard!

Opotiki

At the far eastern end of the Bay of Plenty, Opotiki is the gateway to the neighbouring region of Eastland. It’s remote location ensures that it doesn’t get too crowded, despite the fact that it is home to long, unspoilt beaches and enjoys one of the best climates in the country.

Te Uruwera National Park

The immense and rugged forests of Te Uruwera National Park stretch from Eastland almost all the way to Whakatane in the Bay of Plenty. To access the park, though, visitors should drive inland to the tiny village of Murupara – western gateway to Te Uruwera.

Activities in Whakatane

Walking and hiking

For a short walk, the Whakatane River Walk offers an easy stroll along the riverbanks to the Whakatane Heads. Nga Tapuwae o Toi is a 10-kilometre walkway from Whakatane to Ohope Beach – highly recommended, this walk is spectacular and varied. Walkers will pass ancient pa sites and seabird colonies, and enjoy spectacular Pohutukawa trees and coastal views. Named for a paramount chief who arrived in the Whakatane area by waka 1,000 years ago, Nga Tapuwae o Toi translates to ‘in the footsteps of Toi’. Those seeking a more remote wilderness experience should visit Te Uruwera National Park – this rugged and beautiful spot is home to the largest area of native forest remaining in the North Island and offers a multitude of day walks and strenuous multi-day hikes.

Scenic flights

Don’t miss catching a scenic flight to see the famous White Island up close. From the air, the sulphur-green crater-lake wreathed in steam is an otherworldly sight. Amazingly, helicopters are even able to land here (official tours only) – allowing visitors the opportunity to walk on an active volcano.

Boat cruises

Another way of getting close to White Island is by boat – but you’ll need to join a commercial tour in order to land on the island. Boat cruises are a hugely popular pastime in this coastal community. Whether you want to spot dolphins, go deepwater fishing or just soak up the scenery, there are options to suit every traveller.

Diving

White Island is also a one-of-a-kind dive site – the water surrounding the island is crystal clear and is home to a wide variety of marine life. Join an expert local operator to see for yourself.