National Geographic Travel explores the Eastern Bay of Plenty

One of the greatest walks in New Zealand, the Ngā Tapuwae o Toi walking track is a showcase of the best the Whakatāne District has to offer.

There's a spot not too far from home with plenty of sun and expanses of stunning landscapes.

We spoke with Whakatāne local Holly Waghorn, Miss Universe New Zealand 2017 finalist, to find out what she loves most about Whakatāne.

While other clubs around the country suffer from wet feet during the winter months, Whakatāne’s sun-filled golf courses offer crisp, dry greens year-round, coupled with spectacular scenery. 

The route delivers plenty of scenery, vegetation and birdlife; and, if you read the information boards you’ll come across, about 800 years of history too.

After a five-year hiatus, Whakatāne officially holds the sought-after New Zealand 'Sunshine Capital' title!

Unwind and reconnect under the sun in Whakatāne.

All the best bits of the Eastern Bay from a guy who's been promoting it for years

Chosen from across all categories, the Supreme Towns and Cities Award winner is the judges’ pick of the bunch.

Awakeri Rail Adventures has carried well over 1400 passengers through the rolling Awakeri countryside in converted golf carts on the disused Awakeri/Tāneatua railway line.

The Whakatāne area has sun, sand, surf and soul, writes Tim Roxborogh