Whakatāne
New Zealand · Bay of Plenty
Description
Whakatāne is a coastal town in the Bay of Plenty and is known as the gateway to Whakaari (White Island), New Zealand’s most active volcano. The town combines spectacular natural landscapes, Māori heritage, and maritime traditions, with sweeping views across the bay toward the iconic volcanic island offshore. Whakatāne is deeply connected to the history of Ngāti Awa, and the Pōhaturoa rock in the town centre holds important cultural and spiritual significance for the local Māori community. The surrounding region is renowned for its diverse scenery, including beaches, rivers, coastal walks, and the abundant marine life of the Bay of Plenty, with opportunities to encounter dolphins. Following the tragic 2019 eruption of Whakaari, access to the island has been restricted, and it is now primarily experienced as a remarkable natural landmark viewed from a distance.
Length of stay
Recommended length of stay: 1 to 2 days (optimal 1 day)
Travel season
Best time to visit: December – January
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Highlights
- Whakaari / White Island scenic flight
- Ōhope Beach(Day trip)
- Moutohorā / Whale Island wildlife tour(Day trip)
- Swimming with dolphins
- Pōhaturoa Rock
- Whakatāne River Walk
- Kohi Point Lookout
- Mataatua Wharenui
- Whakatāne Heads
- Mokorua Bush Walk
- Ōtarawairere Bay
- West End Lookout(Day trip)
- Julius Kiwi
- Awakeri Hot Springs(Day trip)
- Fishing charters
- Whirinaki Te Pua-a-Tāne Conservation Park(Day trip)
Getting there
- Airports:
- WHK
- Seaport:
- Reachable by ship or ferry