Whakatāne has a busy shopping precinct with a vast range of delectable cafes and restaurants, boutique fashion and homeware stores, bookshops, several sporting and recreation outlets and more. The town comes alive with local musicians and touring bands through the summer months. There’s also a multi-screen cinema complex showing the latest blockbusters and renowned bars and pubs for evening drinks.
The town is the artistic and cultural hub of the District, with regular art exhibitions at Te Kōputu a te whanga a Toi - the Whakatāne Exhibition Centre, and many sites of historical significance to Māori.
Whakatāne's climate is without equal; it has claimed the title of the Sunshine Capital of New Zealand for four years, a highly-contested competition throughout the country.
Things to do in Whakatāne
Whakatāne is the cultural hub of the Whakatāne District. Local attractions like Mataatua Wharenui, the Lady on the Rock, and Te Kōputu a te Whanga a Toi - the Whakatāne Library and Exhibition Centre - showcase the rich heritage and history of the area.
Whakatāne also has a wide variety of walks both inside and surrounding the city centre, including the Warren Cole Walkway, the Public Art Trail, Historic Trail, Whakatāne Gardens, and the western end of the Ngā Tapuwae o Toi walking track.
The Whakatāne River is the point of departure for most oceangoing activities in the District, including fishing charters and tours to Moutohorā.
Places to eat in Whakatāne
Whakatāne has by far the greatest variety of dining options in the area, with heaps of choices available along The Strand and surrounding streets. You'll find everything from cheap-as-chips takeaways to high-end dining options. Most seafood served in the city is locally-caught; the fish on your dinner plate might have been swimming in the ocean that morning!
Rides and walks in Whakatāne
From riverside walks or rides to wanders through native bush, Whakatāne Town has a great variety of options nearby.
Places to stay in Whakatāne
Most of Whakatāne's motels are clustered on Landing Road, near the entrance to town, but there are additional options in the city centre, including some of the area's most luxurious apartments.
