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Ōpunakē Must Do's
ŌPUNAKĒ BEACH In summer, the family-friendly beach is surf patrolled, offering beachfront camping, satisfying surfing and a community-centric vibe. The population swells every January for the annual beach carnival.
ŌPUNAKĒ LOOP TRACK A 7km one-way walk with several access points. Explore Ōpunakē Lake, the secret garden that has been planted by members of the community, coastal cliff lookouts,a historic pā and the Old Armed Constabulary Cemetery.
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ŌPUNAKĒ LAKE Quiet and peaceful, except for the chattering birds, walk the perimeter in 30 minutes, jump in for a swim and soak up surrounding mountain views.
PIHAMA LAVENDER Stroll around this boutique lavender farm and breathe in heavenly aromas. Lavender is harvested in the distillery room with a shop and gallery open every Saturday and Sunday. A monthly market is held on the third Sunday of the month.
EVERYBODY’S THEATRE A refined and historic cinema which has been restored to its 1920s glory. A novel experience with a selection of retro sofas to sink into.
Ōpunakē Beach © Adobe Stock
PĀTEA MUST DO'S
LIFE-SIZE WAKA The lifesized representation of the Aotea Waka with several ancestors of Ngāti Ruanui and Ngā Rauru iwi was first unveiled on Pātea’s main street in 1933. Local artist, Luther Ashford repainted the iconic sculpture in 2020.
PĀTEA RIVER HISTORIC WALKWAY Tracing the lower end of Pātea River all the way to Pātea Beach, story-telling panels by award-winning botanical artist Audrey Eagle pepper the route.
AOTEA UTANGANUI – MUSEUM OF SOUTH TARANAKI A fantastic way to learn about the region’s history, the museum in Pātea is beautifully set out, with modern displays, a theatre and striking facade.
GALLERY PĀTEA A non-profit gallery mainly showcasing local artists and their work.
