There are plenty of things to see and do in Whakatane. Whakatane offers a huge range of attractions and activities from family fun to adventure.
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Whakatane, New Zealand offers a huge selection of quality tourist attractions and activities for a fun-filled vacation in Whakatane. Attractions and activities include swimming, sightseeing, horse trekking, day spas, fishing, winery tours, walking through maize, surfing, dolphin swimming, star gazing, paintball and so much more! Whether you're looking for something adventurous or a family activity, there are plenty of options for attractions and activities in Whakatane, New Zealand. Whakatane is situated near rivers, beaches, bush, lakes and farmland. With so many places to go there is bound to be something for you to see or do. Enjoy your day then take in something to eat at one of the many places to dine in town then maybe wander down to a bar or watch a movie. Its up to you!
White Island
For a truly unique adventure the destination must be Whakaari (White Island), one of the world’s few accessible live volcanoes. Located 48 kilometres off the shores of Whakatane it is accessible by boat or helicopter or opt for a scenic flight over the island.
Kayaking
Keen for a paddle? The Eastern Bay of Plenty is a superb area for kayaking, with many beautiful rivers and lakes, and a stunning coastline. Even the weather is ideal, with light winds and mild temperatures for most of the year. Whether you’re a beginner or highly experienced, a family or a group, there are trips here for you. Enjoy the fun.
Arts, Culture and Heritage
The lifestyle of Whakatane attracts numerous artists and artisans. If you enjoy arts and crafts, pick up an Arts Trial brochure and spend a day visiting local galleries or studios or join a guided tour by Terry Tours. Whakatane has some exceptional Maori historic sites, which are easily accessible by foot or car from the centre of town.
Walks and Tramps
You’ll incredible walking trails around Whakatane, what ever your fitness or mobility. The Whakatane i-Site has maps, brochures and tips. Nga Tapuwae o Toi takes you from Whakatane up and over bush-clad hills to Ohope Beach (allow 4 hrs) with stunning cliff-top views of the ocean and East Cape. Otarawairere Beach is a easy stroll (allow 30 mins) to a secluded paradise cove.ss Ohiwa Harbour and the Pacific Ocean. There are other courses at Kawerau, Te Teko, Murupara and Opotiki, offering fun for the whole family.
Outdoor Activities
The Whakatane District is rich in outdoor experiences for the outdoors enthusiast. From superb hunting grounds to guided walks in pristine ancient forests or simple family camping holidays, we’ve got something for everyone.
Fishing, Diving and Dolphins
Whakatane is rated as one of New Zealands best fishing spots with a variety of on-shore, or off-shore options. We’ve got a fleet of charter boats that can accommodate your requirements. Or choose a beach-fishing spot for fabulous surf-casting up and down the coast from Matata to Coastlands. If you enjoy trout fishing, the inland waters of Te Urewera National Park offer plenty of opportunities. White Island is one of the world’s best scuba diving destinations and provides a unique experience around a live marine volcano. Or choose an incredible dolphin swimming experience in the warm waters off Whakatane.
Family Activities
Whakatane is an ideal holiday destination for families. We’ve got a whole range of activities to keep the family entertained from strawberry picking or kayaking on Ohiwa Harbour to wandering through a ‘maze of maize’.
Golf
There’s plenty of golfing challenge in Whakatane. Whakatane Golf Club has a world-class undulating course with rural views. Ohope Golf Club offers a challenging ocean-side links course, with sensational views across Ohiwa Harbour and the Pacific Ocean. There are other courses at Kawerau, Te Teko, Murupara and Opotiki, offering fun for the whole family.
Beaches, rivers and harbours
Whakatane is a playground for those who love the water. From stunning beaches that include Ohope and Otarawairere to magical Ohiwa Harbour where you can take guided moonlight kayak trips or fish and ski. Our rivers offer all kinds of recreation from jet boating to guided trout fishing trips.