Things To Do
in Whakatane
Whakatane is a picturesque town located on the eastern coast of the North Island of New Zealand. Known for its beautiful beaches, lush forests, and proximity to White Island, an active marine volcano, Whakatane offers a unique blend of natural attractions. The town is also a popular spot for fishing, water sports, and outdoor adventures.
With a rich Maori heritage and warm community spirit, Whakatane is a welcoming destination for visitors looking to explore New Zealand's natural beauty and culture.
- "Kia ora" - Hello
- "Haere mai" - Welcome
- "Ka kite" - See you
- "TÄnÄ koe" - Thank you
- "MÄori ora" - Be well
Prices
- š Accommodation (per night): $80 - $200
- š½ļø Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ā Coffee: $3 - $6
- š Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- š Grocery shopping (per week): $70 - $150
- šļøāāļø Gym Membership: $30 - $80
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Whakatane's famous white-sand beaches. Enjoy a refreshing swim or a walk along the shoreline.
Head to the Whakatane River for some kayaking or paddleboarding. Alternatively, you can visit the local shops for unique souvenirs.
Enjoy a delicious seafood dinner at a local restaurant. Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront while enjoying the sunset.
Take an exciting boat trip to White Island, an active volcano. Witness the stunning beauty and power of nature on this guided tour.
After returning, relax at a cafƩ for some lunch and refreshment. Spend the afternoon exploring the nearby Ohope Beach.
Wind down the day with a visit to the local craft brewery for some local brews. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and maybe catch some live music.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty, including nearby beaches, rivers, and the active volcano White Island.
- A friendly and welcoming community with a relaxed lifestyle.
- Rich MÄori culture and history, providing unique cultural experiences.
- Great outdoor activities, such as hiking, fishing, and surfing.
- A relatively low cost of living compared to larger cities in New Zealand.
- Good access to local produce and fresh seafood.
- Limited job opportunities, particularly in specialized fields.
- Isolated location, making travel to other cities more time-consuming.
- Less access to high-end shopping and entertainment options.
- Potential for natural hazards due to proximity to active volcanoes.
- Public transport options are limited, necessitating a reliance on personal vehicles.
Best Activities in Whakatane
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the active volcano of White Island with guided tours that take you close to its stunning landscape and geological features.
Relax or engage in water sports at Ohope Beach, known for its golden sands and safe swimming conditions.
Enjoy a scenic walk or bike ride along the Whakatane River, with picturesque views and opportunities for birdwatching.
Visit this nature reserve known for its wildlife and plant life, offering walking tracks and opportunities for birdwatching.
Ride through beautiful landscapes on this scenic rail trail, suitable for both beginners and experienced cyclists.
Take a guided kayaking tour to explore the serene waters of Ohiwa Harbour, home to diverse marine life.
Join guided walks to discover the rich culture and history of the Ngaiterangi people, along with breathtaking views.
Catch some waves at West End Beach, a popular spot for surfers of all skill levels.
Tours
Uncover the best of Whakatane with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Whakatane
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning panoramic views of Whakatane and the surrounding coastline, as well as great photo opportunities for nature and wildlife.
Provides spectacular views of Whakatane and the harbor, making it an ideal spot for capturing scenic photos.
Known for its beautiful beach and rock formations, offering picturesque views and great photo opportunities.
Food in Whakatane
Whakatane Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Maori dish where meat, vegetables, and sometimes seafood are slow-cooked in an earth oven, resulting in tender and flavorful delights.
Must-Try!
Sea urchin, a unique delicacy from the abundant waters around Whakatane, prized for its fresh and briny taste.
A must-try local specialty, these fritters are made from the tiny translucent fish found in the surrounding rivers, creating a delicate yet flavorful dish.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Whakatane better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market showcases the region's finest produce, artisanal goods, and street food, providing an authentic taste of local flavors and culinary traditions.
A lively and colorful market where you can sample a variety of street foods ranging from traditional Maori dishes to international cuisines, all set against the stunning backdrop of Ohope Beach.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Acknowledge and respect the customs and traditions of the MÄori people, the indigenous inhabitants of New Zealand. This includes using appropriate greetings, such as 'Kia ora', and being mindful of cultural practices, especially during ceremonies or significant events.
New Zealanders generally value personal space and privacy. When interacting, maintain a comfortable distance and avoid intrusive questions unless you know the person well. It's important to allow for a level of personal space in social and public settings.
New Zealanders have a strong connection to their natural environment. Show respect for the land and waterways by adhering to local regulations regarding waste disposal and conservation practices. Engaging in eco-friendly behaviors demonstrates respect for the community and its values.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Whakatane with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Whakatane
Ensure a smooth experience
In Whakatane, New Zealand, tipping is not a common practice and is usually not expected. Service charges are often included in the price of food and drinks at restaurants and cafes. However, if a customer feels that the service exceeded their expectations, they might leave a small tip as a gesture of appreciation, typically rounding up the bill or leaving some coins.
Payment methods in Whakatane typically include cash and electronic payments. Most establishments accept credit and debit cards, and contactless payments are becoming increasingly popular. It is also common for locals to use mobile payment apps. ATMs are widely available for cash withdrawals, but it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors or markets.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Whakatane.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Whakatane with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine. Perfect for beach activities, water sports, and outdoor adventures.
Mild temperatures with changing colors of the foliage. Great for hiking, nature walks, and witnessing the autumn beauty of the region.
Cooler temperatures with occasional rainfall. Ideal for whale watching and experiencing the winter wildlife. May experience fog and mist in the mornings.
Increasing temperatures with blooming flowers and newborn wildlife. Perfect for bird-watching, exploring the native flora, and enjoying the outdoors.
Whakatane at Night
Hiking in Whakatane
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic coastal walk around Ohope Beach, offering stunning views of the ocean and surrounding landscapes.
An easy walking track suitable for all fitness levels, featuring native bush and wildlife.
A picturesque walking trail with views of the Whakatane River, estuary, and the Pacific Ocean.
Offers a variety of hiking trails through lush forest and native flora, catering to different experience levels.
A more challenging hike that leads to the summit of Pohaturoa, providing panoramic views of the Bay of Plenty.
This track traverses through beautiful bush and offers great opportunities for bird watching and enjoying nature.
A bit further out but a great multi-day hiking experience along the stunning shores of Lake Tarawera.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Whakatane through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Whakatane by plane.
Auckland Airport is the largest and busiest airport in New Zealand, located approximately 80 miles (130 kilometers) from Whakatane.
Hamilton Airport is located about 90 miles (145 kilometers) from Whakatane and serves as a gateway to the central North Island.
Rotorua Regional Airport is situated about 55 miles (90 kilometers) from Whakatane and offers flights to various destinations, mainly within New Zealand.
Tauranga Airport is around 60 miles (95 kilometers) from Whakatane and provides both domestic and limited international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of the population identifies as European or PÄkehÄ, reflecting New Zealand's colonial history.
MÄori, the indigenous people of New Zealand, constitute a notable demographic group in Whakatane.
This includes a variety of ethnic groups from the Pacific Islands, contributing to the cultural diversity of the area.
A growing demographic group that includes individuals from various Asian backgrounds, reflecting broader immigration trends.
Includes individuals from various other ethnic backgrounds not classified in the primary groups.
The Soul of Whakatane
Discover the essence of Whakatane through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Rugby is one of the most popular sports in Whakatane, with a strong local club scene and community support.
Cricket has a long-standing tradition in Whakatane, with various clubs and competitions held throughout the summer season.
Netball is widely played in Whakatane, particularly among school teams and local leagues.
Football is growing in popularity, with local clubs offering opportunities for youth and adult players.
Due to its coastal location, surfing is a popular sport in Whakatane, attracting both locals and tourists.
Whakatane offers various trails for mountain biking, making it a favored recreational activity for locals.
Fishing is a popular pastime in the Whakatane area, with many people engaging in both recreational and competitive fishing.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Whakatane.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants and cafes in Whakatane offer a range of vegetarian options, from fresh salads and vegetable-centric dishes to creative plant-based mains, ensuring that vegetarians can enjoy a variety of satisfying meals.
While the vegan dining scene is still emerging, several eateries in Whakatane are now offering dedicated vegan menus or can accommodate vegan requests with flavorful and inventive plant-based dishes.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities will find that numerous dining establishments in Whakatane provide gluten-free alternatives, such as gluten-free bread and pasta, allowing individuals to dine out with ease and peace of mind.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Whakatane with these cultural adventures.
