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Ōpotiki Must Do's
WAIOTAHE BEACH The beach here is an absolutely beautiful gateway to the East Cape. The fishing is excellent, particularly over the summer months, good for surf casting or long liners. For shade, settle under the pōhutukawa trees, halfway along the beach.
ŌPOTIKI MUSEUM One to rival any big city museum, visitors are left in awe. Housed in a former bus station and superbly curated, there are three floors of artefacts, including everyday implements from days gone by and a comprehensive selection of Māori taonga.
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THE BURIAL TREE Estimated to be more than 2000 years old and found in Hukutaia Domain, the pūriri tree is hollow and was once used by the Upokorehe iwi to store the bones of the dead. Yes, the tapu has been lifted.
MOTU RIVER JET Motu River weaves through one of the last significant areas of untracked native bush in the North Island. Access this remote landscape on a jet-boat tour, combining thrills and fun with historic accounts and insight.
BEACHES AND BAYS Te Kaha hasglorious beaches and bays, perfect for swimming, while Whanarau Bay, with its tranquil beaches and rocky outcrops, is considered to be the prettiest bay.
Cycling near Ōpotiki on the Pākihi Track © Jim Robinson
