This is a stunning loop-journey from Whakatane, heading around the spectacular Pacific Coast to Ohope, along the sand, then inland through forest that is roamed by kiwis, back to town. The track is the stage for annual Toi's Challenge, founded in 1996, and one of New Zealand's iconic trail events.
If you've conquered a half marathon and you want an altogether different kind of walking challenge, put Julian’s Berry Farm Toi's Challenge in your diary!
For twenty-nine years, Toi’s Challenge has been a highlight of the eastern Bay of Plenty trail running calendar, featuring a spectacular mix of coastal and forest trails between Whakatāne and Ōhope.
The route delivers plenty of scenery, vegetation and birdlife; and, if you read the information boards you’ll come across, about 800 years of history too.
In 2021, The NZ Herald ran a series of articles focusing on Māori tourism businesses, showcasing who they are, what they do. This is the story of Whirinaki Forest Footsteps
In 2021, The NZ Herald ran a series of articles focusing on Māori tourism businesses, showcasing who they are, what they do. This is the story of Don Allardice (Ngāti Kahungunu) of Riverbug.
Sun to Surf is a unique and exciting oceanside event, which will take place on the final day of daylight saving. Starting in the late afternoon allowing competitors to run into the twilight from the scenic township of Whakatāne to the stunning finish on NZ's Best Loved Beach.