Whakatāne weekend

INTO THE SWING OF IT

Whakatāne and Ōhope have so much to offer all types of visitors, and golf lovers will find this corner of the country equivalent to a hole in one.

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Head south from Tauranga for one hour and you’ll find yourself immersed in the beauty and flavours of the Whakatāne District – a place which has come a long way in recent years. Yes, it still offers the same stunning coastline scenery, bush and beaches, but have you experienced its unbelievably tantalising array of cafés, restaurants and bars? Add to that two of the country’s best golf clubs and you’ve got yourself an easy weekend getaway to remember.

DO

WHAKATĀNE GOLF CLUB

This 18-hole championship course is just a five-minute drive from Whakatāne township and offers excellent lush fast greens with fairways that are mostly flat and forgiving. Its greens are great for approach shots, while there are some where accuracy is essential. The lounge bar and restaurant/café serves meals and snacks and, if you don’t have time to get there during the day, there’s the nine-hole Twilight Golf held on Thursday evenings.

NGĀ TAPUWAE O TOI

Meaning Footprints of Toi, this walkway captures the essence of Whakatāne District. The track includes three major scenic reserves – Kohi Point Scenic Reserve, Ōhope Scenic Reserve and Mokorua Scenic Reserve. Head in a clockwise direction and experience the full 16km round trip with its amazing clifftop views, native bush and secluded beaches. Or do one stretch and get the Bay Hopper bus back to the start.

ŌHOPE BEACH GOLF LINKS

Some say this is one of the best links courses in New Zealand and it’s plain to see why. Amazing views of the ocean and Whakaari/White Island keep visitors coming back for more. Its superbly-maintained course has been described as a hidden gem and boasts a refurbished clubroom lounge, a bar and café and is a premier destination for events.

ŌHOPE HARBOURSIDE TRAIL

Stretching out over three kilometres, this harbourside trail is perfect for those looking for a nice walk, run or short bike ride. The walk is located along the shoreline of Ōhiwa Harbour and has been designed to ensure the least disruption to the environment while offering stunning views.

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EAT

1. L’EPICERIE LARDER

This French café, located in the heart of Whakatāne, offers homemade breads and pastries that will immediately transport you to a quaint French village. There’s also great coffee and a whole host of other delicacies to get your tastebuds singing.

2. FISHERMAN’S WHARF

Head to one of Ōhope’s best restaurants for great views and even better fish tacos. Hang out with a beer or wine on the spacious deck and try the excellent seafood and steak, or take away from the handy window and explore Ohiwa Harbour

3. MOXI

If you’re after a classic Kiwi café, look no further than Ōhope’s Moxi. The Hangover Breakfast will see you through the day, while the pancakes won’t disappoint. 4. THE COMM

Beer lovers tend to flock to The Comm in Whakatāne for the Good George offerings, great atmosphere and mouth-watering food. They’re open from breakfast through to dinner and even cater to the kids.

5. GIBBOS ON THE WHARF

Serving fresh seafood and the classic fish’n chips, the Whakatāne institution that is Gibbos on the Wharf gives the option of taking away or dining with a view. Bargain prices and good quality food have made this one of the town’s most visited takeaway joints.

6. CIGOL

You could argue Whakatāne’s Cigol is aptly named. It means ‘little town’, but there’s nothing small town about this Korean fusion restaurant. Giving off some serious urban vibes, the restaurant offers everything you want from a Korean foodie experience, but with a Pacific twist.

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