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Summer biking STRIKE PHOTOG

Autumn like this? 

Whakatāne is at its best in autumn. Warm, settled days stretch on, with plenty of space all to yourself. Enjoy Aotearoa’s Best Beach at Ōhope, or spend time in New Zealand’s most beautiful town, Whakatāne. Discover the many walking trails and enjoy an abundance of native bird life in the Kiwi Capital of the World. Or simply relax, have a natter to the locals and enjoy the serenity.

>> Ōhope Beach <<

Voted New Zealand's best and most loved beach on multiple occasions, it's not hard to see why this stretch of sand along the Pacific coastline has manuhiri/visitors returning time and time again. Without the summer sea breeze, autumn is a beautiful season to visit Ōhope. Safe swimming, right through till May, plenty of wide open spaces, world class surfing and so many activities right on your doorstep.

Abundant sunshine, warm waters and safe swimming make Ōhope Beach the perfect holiday destination.

Ohiwa Harbour, the southern half of Ōhope, offers plenty of opportunities for sightseeing, walks, fishing, kayaking, and more.

Otarawairere is the hidden jewel of the Whakatāne-Ōhope area. This secluded beach is accessible only on foot or by kayak, but the trip is definitely worth the effort.

A social dining experience at Ōhope Beach. The Eastern Bay's only Mexican restaurant, serving up delicious food and cocktails.

Look forward to stellar harbour views from the spacious deck of this relaxed, beachy restaurant.

Providing electric rides from eBikes & eScooters - make the most of your time in Whakatane/Ohope by renting a VMAC Ride

>> Eco Experiences <<

Whakatāne is a place of incredible beauty. From our ocean paradise including Moutouhoā, to the mists of Te Urewera. There are plenty of wonderful experiences and things to do that will help you rewind, connect and reset in nature. 

Wainui Seaside Glamping is located just 10 minutes from Ōhope Beach and 20 minutes from Whakatane - on the shores of the beautiful Ohiwa Harbour.

One of the best-kept secrets in Aotearoa. The island is a remnant volcano and is home to a number of rare and endangered plants, birds and reptiles.

Surrounded by lush farmlands and forestry, Kohutapu Lodge overlooks the pristine Lake Aniwaniwa.

>> Golf <<

Whether it be world class links courses in Ōhope and Whakatāne or perhaps something a little more casual and laidback in the hinterlands, Whakatāne has something to offer golfers of all abilities. Pack your clubs and follow the sun.

Five minutes from Whakatāne, this championship course offers a great golf experience and is one of the finest golf courses in the Bay of Plenty.

One of New Zealand’s most scenic golf courses, uniquely situated between Pacific Ocean on one side and the beautiful, unspoilt Ohiwa Harbour. 

The Eastern Bay of Plenty’s sun-filled golf courses offer crisp, dry greens year-round, coupled with spectacular scenery.

>> Kiwi Experiences <<

Autumn is the best time to visit our Kiwi Capital of the World™.

With wild Kiwi virtually in our backyards, Kiwi can often be heard calling at night from Whakatāne CBD. There is no other urban centre in New Zealand that has kiwi in such close proximity.

See the Whakatāne Kiwi Trust night walks here.

In Whakatāne, kiwi are literally in our backyard; we can walk off the pavement into the bush and be in kiwi territory.

An outdoor adventurer's playground, complete with abundant hiking, hunting and fishing opportunities, spectacular cycling and mountain-biking tracks, world-class golf courses and trips to an island wildlife sanctuary. 

>> Adventure awaits <<

Plenty of things to see and do on water or on land - Whakatāne is an adventurous paradise.

Explore the crystal blue Pacific on a kayak, SUP or by charter fishing boat, or discover new tracks and pathways on mountain bike and foot. For an active relaxer, this is the place to rewind, connect and reset.

All of our experienced local charter boat operators have a sustainable fishing policy and will help make your fishing experience truly memorable.

"...the Rangitāiki experience is just so spectacularly beautiful and perfect for any ability level."

The Onepu Mountain Bike Park is a great place for all types of riders.

>> Discover Our Local <<

From the best boutique, fashion and gift shops, to the perfect place for a pint in the sun or a mouth watering feast. You'll find the best of the best that Whakatāne has to offer when you #DiscoverOurLocal

Who says you need to go to the big city for the best shopping? We've got you covered here in the Eastern Bay

Discover the best kai, right here in the Eastern Bay of Plenty

Maybe it's a pint, maybe a coffee fix or event a fresh fruit smoothie - #DiscoverOurLocal

Rewind | Connect | Reset

Do something new, New Zealand! The kiwi invented riverbug is the most fun and unique way to explore our taonga wai (water treasures).

The spectaular Tarawera Falls is a 35-metre high waterfall on the Tarawera River that flows out of Lake Tarawera and across a lava flow

The western end of Ōhope Beach - commonly just called West End - is the most popular part of the beach.

Kayaking adventures at Whale Island, Ohiwa Harbour and Otarawairere Bay. Guided tours and hires for independent travelers, family groups, businesses and schools.