Family activities

Travel along a piece of New Zealand's rich rail history and experience the natural beauty and adventure from the comfort of a self-driven rail-cart

Wairaka Centennial Park, sits alongside the Whakatāne River at The Heads. The park is a fantastic, family-friendly recreation destination.

Situated on the shore of the lake, with a flying fox and all sorts of other fun things for the kids to discover.

The centre hosts the Horizon Energy Group Library, the Whakatāne District Museum display and three gallery spaces.

Choose your ADVENTURE.... Escape Room, Virtual Reality or Board Games

Enjoy a secluded holiday, relaxing at the pools, and taking day trip to all the attractions the Bay of Plenty has to offer.

Great fun for the little ones. Trains generally run on Sundays from 10 am - until 3 pm, weather permitting.

The Whakatāne Astronomical Society provide night sky viewing from the nationally renowned Whakatāne Observatory.

Kaputerangi or Toi's Pā is of major historical significance and is part of the Kohi Point Scenic Reserve.

Fast, 10.5-metre day boat for fishing and diving. For newcomers to seasoned pros.

Everyone welcome, from first-time anglers to experienced fishermen. Because a day fishing is never a day wasted!

Swim some laps in the pool, relax in one of the spas, work out in the gym complex, take the kids paddling in the learners or beach pools, or get your thrills on the hydroslide.

The Whakaari/White Island Experience room provides a stunning up-close and informative experience of this geothermal wonder.

Whakatāne's premier movie and entertainment venue, offering a boutique movie experience with comfortable seating and true cinema-quality sound.

The spectaular Tarawera Falls is a 35-metre high waterfall on the Tarawera River that flows out of Lake Tarawera and across a lava flow

Join us for dolphin and seal swimming encounters with frequent penguin, sea bird and occasional whale sightings.

Otarawairere is the hidden jewel of the Whakatāne-Ōhope area. This secluded beach is accessible only on foot or by kayak, but the trip is definitely worth the effort.

Providing electric rides from eBikes & eScooters - make the most of your time in Whakatane/Ohope by renting a VMAC Ride

Filled with fresh water from deep underground, it’s the perfect spot for a family picnic and refreshing swim on a hot summer day.

A fun, diverse and detailed riverside park, adjacent to the Warren Cole walkway. 

'The Cougar' departs daily from the Ōhope Wharf to take you on your fishing adventure. A great day out for families, or just a group of mates.

The western end of Ōhope Beach - commonly just called West End - is the most popular part of the beach.

A popular spot known to locals as 'The Heads' where the Whakatāne River meets the sea.

Free heated pools, including a giant spa pool, The whole complex is surrounded by large recreation and play areas, where barbecue and picnic tables are available for families.

Te Wairere Falls is a sacred landmark to all of Mataatua. One of the most beautiful and historically significant places in Whakatāne.

Experience one hour of awesome jet boating and view the majestic scenery at the Motu River.

Experience the fun and thrill of the surfing lifestyle at beautiful West End, Ohope Beach. Local qualified instructors will teach individuals or groups.

Do something new, New Zealand! The kiwi invented riverbug is the most fun and unique way to explore our taonga wai (water treasures).

A self-guided scavenger hunt in Whakatāne, New Zealand, the Kiwi Capital of the World!

Pacific Coast Adventures offers half or full day inshore fishing charters as well as land based educational activities for groups.

eBikes, eScooters, SUP (Stand-up paddleboards) and yummy coffee are on the menu at Wharfside Ōhope.

Kayaking adventures at Whale Island, Ohiwa Harbour and Otarawairere Bay. Guided tours and hires for independent travelers, family groups, businesses and schools.