Outdoor activities

Camping

A camping holiday in the Whakatane District is a perfect way to enjoy the golden beaches, steaming hot pools or lush native forests of the region. The camping sites listed here offer a range of facilities and locations.

Hunting

The Whakatane District is the gateway to a wide range of excellent hunting experiences in native or exotic forests to hunt for wild deer, wild boar or game birds. Lake Waikaremoana is a nationally significant trout fishery and deer and pig hunting are popular activities in the major forest tracts. Deer species within the conservancy include red, sika and rusa. Our local guides are professional and knowledgeable and offer the experience of a lifetime for the novice or seasoned hunter. It is essential to obtain permits and licenses from a Department of Conservation office or other agency before leaving home. Further information is available from www.fishandgame.org.nz or www.doc.govt.nz, Rangitaiki Area Department of Conservation office - Murupara Visitor Centre 07 366 1080 or Whakatane Hunting and Fishing 07 308 7528.

Hunting Guides here..

Kayaking in the Eastern Bay

Keen for a paddle?  The Eastern Bay of Plenty is a superb area for kayaking, with many beautiful rivers and lakes, and a stunning coastline.  Even the weather is ideal, with light winds and mild temperatures for most of the year.  Whether you're a beginner or highly experienced, a family or a group, there are trips for you.  Drop into the Information Centres in the Eastern Bay to pick up a Kayak guide and maps or download a PDF here. Enjoy the fun....

Kayak Trips here.....

Guided Walks

Experience the magic of the Whirinaki and Te Urewera National Park with experienced guides. Or visit Matata for any easy historic walking tour...

Walks and Tramps

The Whakatane District is renown for it's superb walking and tramping tracks that include coastal tracks with stunning ocean vistas and walkways through ancient native forests. Te Urewera National Park and Whirinaki Forest Park are a short drive from Whakatane and include a wide range of walks and tramps suitable for all levels of fitness and the time available. To the south of Whakatane is the Lake Waikaremoana Great Walk which takes 3 - 4 days and is one of New Zealand's premier walking tracks through some of the best scenery in the country. Walking maps, brochures, hut permits and safety information is available at the Whakatane Information Centre and the Rangitaiki Area DOC Office and Murupara Visitor Centre) or visit www.doc.govt.nz.

Walk details here...

Guided Wilderness Adventures

Experience the beauty of the great outdoors in the Whakatane District with knowledgeable guides who will take you to the spectacular unspoilt settings that New Zealand is famous for. Trips can include tramps, horse treks and camping in Te Urewera National Park and Whirinaki Forest Park or shorter walks through coastal reserves.

Tour operators here..