Wairaka and The Heads at sunrise

Whakatāne Heads

A popular spot known to locals as 'The Heads' where the Whakatāne River meets the sea.

Famous for its stunning sunsets, framed by the 'lady on the rock' statue which commemorates the bravery of Wairaka when the first waka came to shore 600 years ago.

Watch the boats come and go through the harbour entrance and let the kids explore the shoreline. Or have fun at the playground, with a volcano slide, climbing frames and waterspouts to cool off under during the warmer months.

There are many great picnic spots at The Heads, or grab a takeaway from the CBD and wander along the riverfront before enjoying your meal as the sun sets.

  • Walkers along the river
  • Waka ama on the river
  • The Wairaka Playground
  • Boat crossing the bar
  • Surfer at the Heads
  • Carvings at The Heads
  • Kids climbing rocks at the heads
  • Riding a wave

Contact Details

The Heads
Muriwai Drive
Whakatāne
New Zealand

More things to do

Bush landing

Ōpōtiki Helicopters

Drop in to all the best spots in the Mōtū and Te Urewera Ranges. Land and camp, or stay in one of the many huts located in the National Parks.

Aerial shot of course

Whakatāne Golf Club

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.

i-SITE with river site in the background

Otuawhaki

Otuawhaki has great importance for Ngāti Awa as a fishing ground and place of learning.

Happy with Kingfish catch

Club Talk Charters

Fishing out of Whakatāne to White Island, down to Waihau Bay and the Ranfurly Bank, we offer all different styles of fishing targeting everything from trout to marlin.

Kid walking up Vertigraph

Vertigraph

The brainchild of Colin Hughes, these picturesque tiles were designed and created by a team of 12 artisans from the Whakatane Society of Arts and Crafts.

Port Ohope

Wharfside

eBikes, eScooters, SUP (Stand-up paddleboards) and yummy coffee are on the menu at Wharfside Ōhope.

What's Nearby

Ready to lock it in? Still have questions?

Let our friendly i-ISITE team take care of the hard work for you!

Give us a call

Email Us

Send us a message

Explore by Category