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Whakatāne Must-Do's
Moutohora Island/Whale Island
Visit one of the country’s most protected wildlife sanctuaries, thriving with plants, birds and reptiles. Only three companies have permission to tour here, allowing a select few to bathe at a secluded hot water beach, swim in empty bays and visit a fur seal colony.
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Whirinaki Te-Pua-a-Tāne Conservation Park
You don’t want to miss a guided eco-cultural tour of Whirinaki Forest, one of the world’s last prehistoric rainforests. The ancient trees are massive, and you will feel like an ant amongst giants.
Dive SeaFire
In 2008, a 44m fishing vessel was sunk just off the shores of Whale Island to create an artificial reef. Thirteen years later and divers adore the flourishing ecosystem.
Warren Cole Walkway/Cycleway
Embark on a gentle cycle (or walk) beside Whakatāne River. Jump off the saddle for Whakatāne Rose Gardens, River Edge Miniature Railway (open Sundays), plentiful cafés, Whakatāne Wharf and Wairaka Centennial Park for its playground and aquatic play area.
Te Ana o Muriwai (Muriwai’s Cave)
As one of the region’s most sacred sites, the cave was once 122m deep. Today’s visitors can explore all but a few metres, the carvings, however, are exceptional.
Awakeri Hot Springs
Foremost a holiday park, general public can also sink into the site’s outdoor hot pool and private spas.
Night Walks with Whakatāne Kiwi Trust
This town is the nation’s kiwi capital and home to over 300 wild kiwi. Between April and June, take a Friday night walk to spot them in their natural habitat. Got sprogs? Kids discovery walks run once a fortnight on Thursday nights.
Wairere Falls
Whakatāne is the only New Zealand town with a waterfall in the middle of it. From the grassy picnic area, take the short path to the waterfall’s base.
Climb to Puketapu Lookout
For stunning views of Whakatāne River mouth and surrounding plains, follow a short, steep walk to the top of Puketapu. Best undertaken at sunset.
River Edge Park Miniature Railway
For a mere $2, jump on the miniature carts for a bonny ride of the rails, complete with steam and whistles. Running Sundays from 10am-3pm, weather permitting.
Ngā Tapuwae o Toi (Footprints of Toi)
Walking in Ngā Tapuwae O Toi © Bay of Plenty Tourism
Canvassing the coastline and cliff edge, this pathway weaves between pā sites, scenic reserves and a brigade of sea birds. Allow five to seven hours to cover 16km.
Mataatua Wharenui Marae
This fully carved Māori ancestral house traversed the globe for 130 years before returning to Aotearoa. One of the tour highlights is the award-winning show, Hiko: Legends Carved in Light, whereby carvings are brought to life via digital illumination.
Boat Charters
In Whakatāne, there are more fishing charters than you can wave your rod at. For all those not casting a line, there’s Centaurus, a slick 38ft catamaran with room for 12 guests.
Kiwi Wandering Trail
There are 10 bronze kiwi statues to find on this self-guided scavenger hunt. Pick up a brochure with clues at the i-SITE or library and allow at least one hour to complete.
Awakeri Rail Adventures
Experience a fun and informative guided tour along disused railway. Buggies have been cleverly converted to be self-driven along the tracks and the scenery is as good as the shenanigans.
Moutohora Island/Whale Island © Whakatāne District Council
