My name is dERMOTT and I had the privilege of running this website and the social-media channels of @whakatane.nz between 2018 and 2022. During this time, I managed to discover some stunning spots and awesome things to do in the Eastern Bay of Plenty. Here’s my insiders guide to Whakatāne
Where to eat?
There are heaps of awesome places to eat and drink here in the Eastern Bay. Some are long-time established, others are relatively new. My favourite place for a fancy dinner - and if I want to impress visiting friends/whānau - is Cigol. An awesome Korean fusion place with cool decor and even better kai. For coffee, it's hard to go past Volk or Javaman in the CBD.
If you venture across the hill to Ōhope, make it Moxi. While you're over that neck of the woods, you'll probably wanna grab a Taco too from Cadera... and a Mojito just to be polite. Speaking of drinks, for a beer in the sun from our very own craft brewery, it has to be Mata - they are great. A special shout-out to the Smokin Goose team too - slow-cooked meat is always a winner.
The best of nature...
I could go on and on and on about all the beautiful parts of this place but I won't bore you, instead I'll implore you! Make sure you visit Whakatāne - it might be a bit further away than some other parts of New Zealand, but the warm welcome, settled weather (particularly in Autumn, my favourite time of year) and wonderful places to discover are worth the journey. Moutouhorā (Whale Island) is just off the coast and a cool little day trip. Depending on who you get there with, you can explore on land or by kayak. The birdsong in itself is enough to make me want to go back.
I fell in love with Whirinaki Te Pua-a-Tāne Conservation Park when I first visited. I managed to get there in the second week of starting my job and there is nowhere else in the world like it. The serenity - yes, I'm quoting 'The Castle' - contrasts with the epic-ness of the giant podocarps. I am a massive cheerleader for this place, you should definitely visit.
Lastly I want to single out Ruatāhuna. Right in the heart of Te Urewera, I'd the privilege of working with some members of this wonderful community and felt a real warmth of welcoming. It's a windy road but that shouldn't be a reason not to visit - the journey itself and all the points to stop and take photos are worth it. You can stay in comfort too - Te Tii accommodation is comfy as and the kai in the cafe is tumeke.
Get Wet
Confession time - I can't actually swim, but that hasn't stopped me from enjoying this coastal paradise since I moved here. I even learnt to surf down at Westend of Ōhope Beach, and if I can learn, then anyone can. The school is run by Ollie, who is a lovely dude who used to surf Westend as a kid. When he left school he decided to buy the surf business that came up for sale - awesome way to mix business with pleasure. Salt Spray Surf School are a lovely bunch of guys and girls of all ages who love to share their passion for surfing in a safe and welcoming manner. I cannot recommend it enough.
If you prefer something a little more chill, head over to Ohiwa Harbour and get in touch with Mike at SUP Ōhope Beach. He's a lovely character and can offer SUP Hire on the beautiful harbour as well as e-scooter and e-bike hire if you prefer to stay on dry land.
If you are visiting and you manage to get one of our stinking hot summer days where you just can't escape the heat, then you must get to Braemar Springs. This bracing natural spring is in a stunning spot and while the initial submersion will likely take your breath away, you'll soon be happily paddling in stunning, clear waters.
Other notable highlights...
The nearest walkway to my place, which is dog friendly too (with a lead, please) is Latham's Track. Climb to the trig at the top, for panoramic views over the Rangitaiki Plains and further afield to Moutouhorā and Whakaari/White Island.
If you wanna get active on a bike, Onepu is a great place to explore. But, my favourite place is just down the Coast in Opotiki - the Motu Dunes Trail. Great for the family, this easy-going trail is an awesome day out. Insider tip - the ice creams at the Tirohonga Store are huge. If the lady gives you a strange look when you say your kid can have a 'large', maybe reconsider your choice, it's bigger than an adult head!
If you time it right - late Spring to late Summer - you'll be in town for berry season. There is nothing better than a punnet of sun-kissed berries from our finest orchards. Blueberry Corner and the legendary Julian's Berry Farm are awesome places for berry goodness for all ages. The French toast at Julian's is consistently the best I've had anywhere in NZ. If I were to seek out the sweetest berries in town, I'd take a trip towards Te Teko and The Dolls House - AMAZING!
Lastly, an acknowledgment of Mataatua. This is a very special place that I've had the privilege of visiting several times through my work. The light show is world-class and tells the story of the place and the Ngāti Awa people of Whakatāne wonderfully.
