Wairaka and The Heads at sunrise

Whakatāne Heads

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

Famous for its stunning sunsets, framed by the 'lady on the rock' statue which commemorates the bravery of Wairaka when the first waka came to shore 600 years ago.

Watch the boats come and go through the harbour entrance and let the kids explore the shoreline. Or have fun at the playground, with a volcano slide, climbing frames and waterspouts to cool off under during the warmer months.

There are many great picnic spots at The Heads, or grab a takeaway from the CBD and wander along the riverfront before enjoying your meal as the sun sets.

  • Walkers along the river
  • Waka ama on the river
  • The Wairaka Playground
  • Boat crossing the bar
  • Surfer at the Heads
  • Carvings at The Heads
  • Kids climbing rocks at the heads
  • Riding a wave

Contact Details

The Heads
Muriwai Drive
Whakatāne
New Zealand

More things to do

Centaurus

ProSail

Sail from the Whakatāne Harbour on Centaurus, a spacious, 38-foot cruising catamaran.

Aerial shot of course

Whakatāne Golf Club

Five minutes from Whakatāne, this championship course offers a great golf experience and is one of the finest golf courses in the Bay of Plenty.

Kids jumping into the pool

Whakatāne Aquatic Centre

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.

Score card with course in the background

Murupara Golf Club

This 18-hole rural golf course sits alongside the Rangitaiki River and provides a very welcoming relaxed atmosphere for every golfer that pops in for a round.

Motu Jet on Rapids

Motu Jet

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

Happy with Kingfish catch

Club Talk Charters

Fishing out of Whakatāne to White Island, down to Waihau Bay and the Ranfurly Bank, we offer all different styles of fishing targeting everything from trout to marlin.

What's Nearby

Ready to lock it in? Still have questions?

Let our friendly i-ISITE team take care of the hard work for you!

Give us a call

Email Us

Send us a message

Explore by Category