Oyster season is on now!
From May to November experience the art of oyster shucking at the Tio Ōhiwa Oyster Farm, located in the heart of Ōhiwa Harbour.
Tio Ōhiwa is a Māori-owned business with a deep commitment to sustainability, community, and innovation. Established in 1968 and now in the hands of Tangata Whenua, we invite you to experience the rich legacy of oyster farming tradition.
Alongside oyster cultivation and harbour cruising, experience a range of seafood, burgers, and mouthwatering meals.
Experience the freshest of seafood and delicious fish 'n' chips
With first straight off their boats, Gibbo's serves the best fish and chips in town. Situated right on the wharf, this is the perfect spot for a casual dinner as the sun sets.
Taste the unique crumbed fish, which seals the fish and steams it from the inside.
It's no exaggeration to say this is the best spot in the Bay
Situated right on the edge of Ōhiwa Harbour, the evening sunsets are absolutely superb.
Meals include excellent steaks and seafood – try the fish tacos – and there's a decent beer and wine selection to ease you into a great Ōhope evening.
Takeaway fish 'n' chips are available from a handy window outside.
Both fresh and tempura oysters are currently on the menu.
Successful day fishing?
Take your filleted catch into Gibbo's on the Wharf and they'll cook it for you. It doesn't get fresher than that!
With crystal-clear waters, easily navigable bar and plenty of fine weather, a fishing trip should definitely be on your agenda. From December through late April, try your luck catching yellow fin, skipjack, albacore tuna, shark and marlin. Year-round fish include snapper, tarakihi, kingfish and many more.
Pāua Pies!
We've found the best bakers of the famous Pāua Pie in Whakatāne.
Allthesands Coffee, located at 191 Commerce Street, Whakatāne. Check out their instagram here.
Arohaina Kai, as featured on Te Karere Māori News, this food truck has gained attended from their creamed pāua, pāua pies and pāua prawn and steak subs! Usually located at Domain Road, Whakatāne, check out their facebook page for their latest location!
The Bakehouse Whakatāne, 122 The Strand, Whakatāne. With a huge variety of pies and bakery goods, The Bakehouse is well known in Whakatāne.
Wanting to catch your own?
Whakatāne is rated as one of New Zealand's best all-round fishing destinations. Why not sign up for a trip with one of our experienced charter fishing boats?
With knowledgeable local skippers with insider knowledge of the best fishing spots here in the Eastern Bay, each trip can be tailored to you and your guests. Experience fishing in the water surrounding Whaakari / White Island, Lottin Point, Waihau Bay and the famous Ranfurly Banks. Whether your looking for marlin, kingfish, or snapper - the options are plentiful!
All of our experienced local charter boat operators have a sustainable fishing policy and will help make your fishing experience truly memorable.
Other notable mentions!
Our top seafood picks on the menu at our local restaurants.
Roquette Resturant and Bar has an extensive seafood offering, including lemon pepper calimari, seafood marinara and fresh fish filets cooked to perfection. Located along the riverfront, this Whakatāne stalwart never fails to deliver.
Detour Bar & Lounge offers fresh oysters and mussels, thai prawn and snapper salad and seafood linguine. Yum!
Café Awa has the tastiest seafood chowder in town, we highly recommend!
Cigol Resturant, experience a contemporary Korean Pacific feast at Cigol. With a delicious menu featuring coconut kingfish, salmon sashimi and locally made Mata Brewery beers and ciders.