Top Things to Do

Ngā Tapuwae o Toi walking trail

Ngā Tapuwae o Toi, or the 'Footprints of Toi', is a walking trail that captures the essence of the Whakatāne District. It includes pā sites of major historic significance, superb native forest, spectacular pohutukawa stands, unsurpassed coastal views, seabird colonies, forest birds in abundance, plantation forest and rural vistas.

The track includes three major scenic reserves - Kohi Point Scenic Reserve, Ōhope Scenic Reserve and Mokorua Scenic Reserve. The walkway is accessible to most people, regardless of fitness level, because it can be undertaken in sections or as a 16-kilometre round trip. The total trip can be completed in five to seven hours. Information boards placed along the trail tell much more of the district's natural and historic heritage.

Kiwi experiences

The Kiwi Capital of the World™

In Whakatāne, kiwi are literally in our backyard; we can walk off the pavement into the bush and be in kiwi territory.

With help from the Whakatāne Kiwi Trust, the Whakatāne Kiwi Project, and the community, kiwi in the Whakatāne District are prospering. Kiwi calls can be heard from the town centre, and those who live adjacent to reserves may even have kiwi forage in their garden. There is no other urban area in the country that has kiwi in such close proximity.

Moutohorā Wildlife Sanctuary

Take a guided walking or kayak tour to wildlife sanctuary Moutohorā/Whale Island - one of the best-kept secrets of Aotearoa and spot dolphins, little blue penguins, curious seals and rare native birds.

The 143-hectare island is a remnant volcano and also homes a number of New Zealand’s rare and endangered plants, birds and reptiles. Along the shoreline, spot brown fur seals and little blue penguins.

Located nine kilometres from Whakatāne, the island is under the protection of the Department of Conservation (DOC), with highly-restricted access.

Whirinaki Te Pua-a-Tāne Conservation Park

Towering trees, rushing rivers, diverse habitats and a fascinating history combine to create one of New Zealand's most remarkable and significant forests and a must-see biodiversity hotspot.

Whirinaki Te Pua-a-Tāne Conservation Park park is valued as a taonga (treasure) containing the living children of Tāne Mahuta, the Māori god of the forest. Local iwi (tribe) Ngāti Whare is the active kaitiaki (guardian) of the park working with the Department of Conservation (DOC) to protect the natural, cultural, and historic resources for the benefit and well-being of future generations of Aotearoa and visitors.

The park offers experiences for the ultimate adventurer or a day of exploring with the family.

Fishing

Whakatāne is undoubtedly one of New Zealand's best fishing destinations. With crystal-clear waters, easily navigable bar and plenty of fine weather, a fishing trip should definitely be on your agenda. Whether it is game fishing or trout fishing, you have a number of arenas in which to prove your skills with a rod and reel.

Surfing, SUP and Kayaking

The Whakatāne District is paradise for those who love being in or near the water. Less than a ten minute drive from the Whakatāne CBD, Ōhope Beach and Ōhiwa Harbour are both abundant with surfing, stand up paddle boarding (SUP) and kayaking opportunities for all ages.

Golf

The Eastern Bay of Plenty's sun-filled golf courses offer crisp, dry greens year-round, coupled with spectacular scenery. Links and championship-level courses propose a game to rival many of the top courses in New Zealand, and our country courses allow for a laid-back game set amongst stunning natural environments.

Family fun

It is little wonder that the Eastern Bay of Plenty is where people choose to raise children - our area is ripe with activities that pack a punch for families of all ages. Long lazy days at the beach, hikes and bike rides through incredible native bush, numerous adventure playgrounds, fishing off the wharf - endless possibilities for creating the happiest childhood memories.