Take a fresh look
If you need to unplug, and reboot over summer, then head to Whakatāne, where some wild wonders and epic excursions await you.
Words Shiree Schumacher
Summer feels like it’s been a long time coming and what better place to brighten the spirits than one of the country’s sunniest destinations, Whakatāne. The certified suntrap also boasts an 11km stretch of golden shoreline at Ōhope that’s been voted New Zealand’s most loved beach. But there’s plenty more to do other than feel all that sand between your toes. Whether it’s action and adventure or serenity for the soul you’re after, you can find it all around here. And for foodies, we’ve picked some of the best places to relax and reflect on your day’s activities as you dine alfresco.
PLAY
Port Ōhope Wharfside
Check out the pop-up activity hub across from Fisherman’s Wharf. Enjoy the vista of the Ohiwa harbour upon a stand-up paddle board or cruise around on an e-bike or e-scooter (ages 11+) – all for hire. Some wharf jumping will guarantee a cool down, and refreshments from one of the harbour-side food trucks are never far away.
Riverbugging
If adrenalin is your jam or you’re keen for a family-friendly adventure, take the kids (10 years+) for some riverbugging down the Rangitaiki awa. You’ll be kitted out to keep you safe as you all bob, wind and whitewater your way through pure nature, each upon your own cute “buggy”.
Moutohorā
A short boat trip from Whakatāne is the sanctuary that is Moutohorā (Whale Island). Vibrant birdsong greets you at this pest-free haven – home to some of our most endangered wildlife. Learn about the flora and fauna as you’re guided through the regenerated native bush, take in magical views across to White Island, visit a fur seal colony enroute, and finish with a dip in the waters of Onepū Bay, Moutohorā’s secluded beach where you can even dig your own geothermal spring pool.
West End
Ōhope beach’s West End has quite the reputation with surfers, yet it provides a safe, sheltered spot for swimming and kayaking, too. While you can count on catching waves here daily, they don’t break hard so surfie learners and experts alike will find their perfect possie along this stretch. Salt Spray Surf school offers lessons and surfboards for hire nearby.
Whirinaki Te Pua-a-Tāne Conservation Park.
About an hour and a quarter drive from Whakatāne is one of the world's last prehistoric rainforests. Walk the track to the picturesque Waiatiu Falls and imagine the dinosaurs of Gondwana striding among the ancient towering kahikatea, tōtara, matai and rimu. The 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, historic and cultural resources for the benefit and well-being of future generations of Aotearoa and visitors.
EAT
Gibbo’s on the Wharf
Taste the freshness of their daily catch or grab one of the much-loved Gibbo burgers. If you just can’t decide, then try the seafood basket: fish and chips, a crabstick, mussels, squid rings and oysters – and take away to the beach or settle into their wharf-side table to eat while it’s piping hot.
Cadera Mexican Bar & Restaurant
Little says summer more than munching tapas by the sea under one of Cadera’s yellow umbrellas. This sunny eatery at Ōhope beach offers a wide menu including succulent tacos, smoky spare ribs and an array of vegetarian and gluten-free options. Happy hour is from 4 to 5pm daily so say salud to good times with a ruby raspberry margarita or raise a glass with friends over a bucket of chilled Corona.
Fisherman’s Wharf Café
From the restaurant’s open dining deck, watch the yachts gently bobbing under the golden sunset while you sip a fine wine. The menu is worth raving about – and the desserts won’t disappoint. For oyster lovers, the harvest fresh from the sea is a must, or try them tempura battered, nestled back into their shells. Sunday brunches are sometimes available, too.
Little Havana Bar & Restaurant
Spice things up with some Cuban vibes at Little Havana where they’ll happily accommodate large groups, for a fiesta. Join friends outside with a cool jug of sangria or try one of their international red vinos. The food is an ode to Cuba’s Spanish, South American, French, African, Portuguese and Caribbean influences with a touch of familiar Kiwi fusion. From the fresh tarakihi tacos to the paella, the flavours will have your taste buds dancing the mambo.
The Craic
If you’re feeling the call of some Celtic revelry, take a pew outside the historic Whakatāne Hotel at The Craic Irish pub. You can tap your toes to one of the live bands while enjoying the pub fare – from good ol’ bangers and mash, to creamy carbonara, there’s a pleasing selection – and many a cold brew to wash it down with.
