Whakatane River Walk

Bordered by the Whakatane River on one side and bush-clad cliffs on the other, Whakatane's commercial centre must have one of the most scenic settings any town could wish for. The major historic and scenic features of the town are included in this interesting and easy walk, which follows the river to the Whakatane Heads where the river meets the sea.

The walk starts at Landing Road and follows the southern bank of the river to the Whakatane gardens, the Skate Park and Ocean Playground. The Whakatane Wharf was once a busy coastal shipping cargo and passenger port. The wharf and estuary are now homes to many commercial and recreational fishing boats, the Whakatane Sports Fishing club and restaurants.

The riverbank path leads downstream through the Mataatua Reserve. This reclaimed land covers the original landing place of the Mataatua waka and includes a shelter, which houses a replica of the Mataatua waka.

Further on is the big game fishing weigh station and launching ramp, often a hive of activity as the waters offshore are renowned for tuna, billfish and shark fishing. Past the playground is "The Heads" where the Whakatane River rushes into the sea through a narrow gap studded by rocks. Across the river, a bronze statue of Wairaka stands atop the largest rock. This commemorates her courageous defiance of tradition which not only saved the Mataatua waka but gave the town and district its name.

Returning towards the town centre along the road, is Muriwai's cave. Muriwai was an aunt of Wairaka and lived in the cave in the latter part of her life. A famed priestess, her advice was much sought after.

Puketapu Lookout and Papaka Redoubt

Duration: 30 minutes
Difficulty: Easy

Access to both these tracks is at the intersection of Seaview and Hillcrest Roads directly above the town centre.  The Puketapu Lookout was once an ancient Maori fortification and it now provides superb views of the town, river, sea and offshore islands and the Rangitaiki Plains.  The Papaka Redoubt is also the site of an ancient Maori fortification.  Here the Armed Constabulary built a stronghold to protect the town after it had been raided by Te Kooti in 1869.

Otarawairere Bay

This stunning bay is located between Whakatane and Ohope and is only accessible by walking from either Westend, Ohope or Whakatane. The short walk over the hill from Ohope takes a pleasant 20 minutes or allow 1.5 hours to walk from Whakatane taking the Nga Tapuwae o Toi Walking track.

Whakatane Museum and Gallery

The museum displays items from the local environment, pre and post European Maori artefacts and other historical items.   The Museum has an important collection of Taonga Maori from local tribes tracing their descent from the Mataatua Waka. The Museum is also Trustee of the Kohika Collection. Displays also include local natural history and European items. The gallery has ever-changing exhibitions of local and national artists. Open 7 days. Weekdays: 10am - 4.30pm. Weekends/public holidays: 11am to 3pm.

Ocean Playground & Skate Park

This playground is an integrated adventure facility that provides structured activity and creative play for all children. This scenic recreation area includes the Tracks Skate Park. 

Ohope Beach

Ohope Beach, just 6km over the hill from Whakatane is a major draw card for holidaymakers, with its 11 kilometres of golden Pacific sand and safe swimming waters. West End, long a favourite with surfers, is also one of the access points to Otarawairere Beach, one of the most picturesque beaches in the Bay of Plenty.

Ohope is a growing residential area, with superb views and a range of attractive properties beckoning new residents from all over New Zealand. Its current population is 2,760.

Port Ohope and Ohiwa Harbour are magical areas with hundreds of seabirds making their summer home on the rich mudflats and sandbanks of the inner harbour.   The harbour also provides a range of recreation opportunities including fishing, water skiing, sailing, kayaking, and windsurfing among the many attractions.

Accommodation ranges from superb quality beachfront motels and lodges to family camping grounds.

Kohi Point Walkway - Whakatane to Ohope

From Seaview Rd, Whakatane to Ohope Beach (West End) or reverse

This incredibly scenic walk includes ancient pa sites, native bush, stunning cliff top views and the beautiful Otarawairere beach. A must for keen walkers.

One section of the walkway is blocked by high tide. Please check with the Whakatane Information Centre (0800 942 528) for the latest tide information. If you are walking to Ohope and wish to return to Whakatane by bus, the Beach Hopper Bus can pick you up at the Ohope Beach Haven store. Phone the Whakatane Information Centre for Bus times.

Mokoroa Bush Scenic Reserve or the "Bird Walk"

Duration - White Horse Junction to the bottom of Mokoroa Gorge - 1 hour
Loop Walk - 1.5 hours
The Mokoroa Bush Scenic Reserve is a fine example of the self-healing powers of New Zealand's native forests. Most of the area was originally cleared for farming between 1910 and 1920. In 1969 it was declared a scenic reserve and now has a high canopy of native trees and is home to many native birds. This offers a number of views over Whakatane and the surrounding area.

The Department of Conservation (DOC) and the Whakatane District Council invite you to experience the natural and historical richness along the walkway. Please respect the many taonga, or treasures, you will encounter and help us to ensure they endure for the benefit of future generations. To protect the wildlife, including kiwi, dogs are not permitted.