Whakatane town

Whakatane, the centre of Eastern Bay commerce, is an attractive coastal town situated on the banks of the Whakatane River with a population of 15,024.  It has a vibrant retail and commercial area, which includes excellent shopping, cafes and restaurants.

Whakatane's many attractions can't fail to impress the visitor... from wonderful river and bush walks to the many recreational opportunities on and in the waters surrounding this slice of paradise.

Whakatane has a fleet of charter boats, which provide visitors with the chance to dive the crystal clear waters of the Bay, fish for the "big ones", visit New Zealand's only active island volcano, White Island, or swim with the dolphins.

From the dawn of time, this sun-gilded, peaceful corner of the Bay of Plenty has attracted people. It was no accident that Maori travelled vast distances to settle here in one of Aotearoa's oldest population centres. Then as now, the rich bounty of the seas, forested hills and fertile soils could not be resisted. An interesting historic trail that winds through the town points out the many significant points important to the early Maori population.

Those attributes continue to draw visitors from around the globe, but there is more to Whakatane than superb fishing, golden beaches and wonderful tramping and bush walking opportunities. 50 kilometres offshore lies the active volcano Whakaari (White Island) providing a unique and awe-inspiring reminder of the planet's raw destructive and creative power.

There are plenty of options for Accommodation and Activities around Whakatane.