Day one

Morning

Start your weekend the French way, with brunch at L'Atelier French Pastry Shop on Commerce Street. L'Atelier is Whakatāne’s little slice of Paris. Tuck into the café’s signature hand-made chocolate or almond croissants, paired with a nice strong coffee.  

Next, walk off your brekkie with a stroll along The Strand – Whakatāne’s main street, lined with bustling local boutiques to explore. Wind your way around to the riverfront, and take in a few historic sites. Like the Lady on the Rock. A striking bronze statue at the mouth of the Whakatāne River, the Lady captures the story of Wairaka, a Māori woman who helped guide the Mataatua waka into Whakatāne more than 600 years ago. Make time for the quick 5-minute walk to Wairere Falls on Toroa Street, and be sure to see Muriwai’s Cave - one of the region’s most sacred and significant sites.

Midday

Unwind post-walk with a coffee at Café Awa (make sure you nab a sunny outdoor spot on a good day) or Café 4U, where the delectable cabinet food is a firm favourite with the locals (good luck leaving without picking up a slice for the road!).

If you’re visiting in late spring or summer, you won’t want to miss a visit to one of Whakatāne’s brilliant berry farms. Blueberry Corner, R&Bee's, and Julian's Berry Farm are all within a stone’s throw of each other, and all grow some of the best berries in the Bay. Pick up a punnet or pick your own, and be sure to leave time for a delicious Real Fruit Ice Cream.

On your way back to town, stop in at the award-winning Mata Brewery for a pizza and craft beer tasting paddle. Try the locally named and award winning beers and ciders. Whatever you fill your paddle with, the flavour of the local brews won’t disappoint.

Evening

Ward off the afternoon slump with a walk along the Ngā Tapuwae o Toi track. With historic pa sites, stunning native bush and breath-taking coastal views, it’s a beautiful way to beat the need for a post-beer nap. Some portions of the track aren’t accessible due to a slip before West End Beach, Ōtarawairere Beach is still accessible via the Whakatāne end of the track.

End your first foodie day with a trip over the hill to Cadera in Ōhope. The talented team whip up tasty Mexican fare – tapas, tacos, margaritas, and more. Take it from us, the jalapeño poppers are a real must-try.

Day two

Morning

Kick off day two over in Ōhope, with a morning stroll along the sands of one of New Zealand’s favourite beaches. Make sure you finish your walk at Moxi, where you’ll find some of Ōhope’s best baristas. You won’t want to leave without checking out the scrummy brunch menu, too.

If your visit lines up with the famous Whakatāne Sunday Market, don’t forget to pop in for a visit. Running from 8.00am-1:00pm each Sunday, the market showcases some of the Eastern Bay’s finest crafts, plants, and produce. With 100+ stalls in its peak summer period, you won’t want to miss it.

Mid-morning to Afternoon

Experience the Tio Ōhiwa Oyster Farm shuck and cruise tour. Scheduled with the high tide, the tour runs daily at 1030am and 1pm. Located at Ōhiwa Harbour, Tio Ōhiwa is a Māori-owned business with a deep commitment to sustainability, community and innovation. The tour includes a guided history tour of the Ōhiwa Oyster Farm, Ohakana Island and Tauwhare Pā. An interactive oyster experience including shucking and tasting, and complimentary meal and mineral water.

Evening

Treat yourself to something sweet - locally made Tui Fudge is the perfect partner for a cup of tea or coffee and travels well too so you can take some home - that's unless you eat it all before you make it back. 

Finally, head to Fisherman’s Wharf in Ōhope. The restaurant is perched right on the harbour, and boasts some of the best food (and best views) in town. Treat yourself to an entree, main, and dessert. Then just sit back, relax, and raise a glass to a weekend well spent in foodie Whakatāne.

Where to stay?

Spend your foodie weekend away at Tuscany Villas. 4-star accommodation right in the CBD, Tuscany Villas are close enough to the town's restaurants to roll yourself home after a big meal. The Villas are also home to Giordano's Italian BBQ & Wine bar - known for their authentic woodfired pizzas.

Or for somewhere a little more off-the-beaten-track, try glamping under the stars at Ataahua Ruru. Just 10 minutes from Ōhope, this private glamping retreat is a luxurious and relaxing place to unwind in-between exploring the local culinary scene.