Bumper summer ahead in the Eastern Bay
We’ve had Covid, we’ve had rain but this season we’re looking forward to the return of a classic kiwi sun-filled summer.
Forever a holiday spot, Ōhope and Whakatāne have plenty to offer this summer with all-time favourites – surfing at West End, walking Ngā Tapuwae o Toi trail, fishing, biking the Burma Road trail, walking along the harbour front, berry farms and more. But there’s a new kid on the block that offers even more for your summer break. Despite Covid and a wet summer last year, Wharfside at Port Ōhope has been building in popularity as activity hub over the past two years.
The picturesque spot on the harbour’s edge offers something for all. Hire a stand-up-paddleboard and explore the harbour, or an e-scooter and cruise the harbour trail, practice your manu (jumping) skills off the wharf, join an oyster and shuck cruise with Tio Ōhiwa cruises, or simply sit back and watch the action, with a craft beer from Mata brewery, a berry ice cream or something from one of the other food trucks.
Launched in October, Tio Ōhiwa cruises offer the ultimate ocean to plate experience - discover the harbour’s inlets and islands, learn about the rich, cultural history of the area, try shucking an oyster and finish with a feast of fresh oysters and other locally sourced seafood. If you’re lucky you’ll also spot the friendly Stingrays vying for the leftovers.
There are plenty of other eateries well-suited to the holiday vibe. For a finer dining experience at Port Ōhope, book a table at Fisherman’s Wharf with consistently good food and spectacular harbour sunsets for your evening tipple.
You’ll find yourself heading back to Cadera more than once while in holiday-mode. The laid-back Mexican cantina makes an easy transition from the beach to sunset dining. Local golden girl Lisa Carrington raves about the fish tacos, which align perfectly with a classic margarita.
Back over the hill in Whakatāne, there’s more to choose, from gourmet burgers at The Wagon, to Double Zero’s wood fired pizza and a mouth-watering array of Asian Fusion at Cigol. If you enjoy an evening cocktail, head to Roquette or The Comm where you’ll find a great meal to go with it too.
To balance out the wining and dining, The Ngā Tapuwae o Toi walking trail offers spectacular and diverse scenery, from ocean vistas to rocky shores and ancient native forest. Or choose to explore parts of the trail coastline by kayak or paddleboard and discover secluded coves and seabird colonies.
Several bike trails are accessible from Ōhope or Whakatāne CBD, including the scenic Ōhope Harbour trail or Warren Cole cycleway. For something slightly more challenging, head to the Burma Road trail, right in the heart of wild Kiwi country.
If you need a break from the plentiful sunshine, pop into Te Koputu Te Whanga a Toi’s exhibitions area. The friendly staff will also tell you where to go to visit some of Whakatāne’s significant historic sites, including Wairere waterfall situated right in the heart of the CBD.
