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

Lady on the Rock - Wairaka

Lady on the Rock

This bronze statue atop Turuturu Rock lies at the mouth of the Whakatāne River and commemorates the bravery of Wairaka.

Kids jumping into the pool

Whakatāne Aquatic Centre

Swim some laps in the pool, relax in one of the spas, work out in the gym complex, take the kids paddling in the learners or beach pools, or get your thrills on the hydroslide.

WhakaMax Movie Theatre

Whakamax Movies

Whakatāne's premier movie and entertainment venue, offering a boutique movie experience with comfortable seating and true cinema-quality sound.

Lion in the Meadow Whakatane

Lion in the Meadow

This sculpture, commissioned by the Molly Morpeth Canaday Trust and crafted by Jonathon Campbell in 2007, honors the renowned New Zealand author Margaret Mahy.

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