Trade Winter blues for sunshine and tee-offs in Whakatāne
Discover lush fairways, beach strolls, and top-notch dining in beautiful Whakatāne.
Looking for an escape this winter? Whakatāne and Ōhope in the Eastern Bay of Plenty aren’t just about golden summers. They offer crisp winter beauty, sunlit fairways, and plenty of opportunities to indulge with your besties. Whether you’re an avid golfer or just keen on trying something new, this coastal slice of paradise is calling. Think lush greens, boutique shopping, beach strolls, and enough wining and dining to warm you up from the inside out.
Here’s why Whakatāne is the perfect choice for your midwinter girls’ getaway.
Tee off at two stunning Golf Courses
There’s no better way to kick off your weekend than at Ōhope Beach Golf Links, rated one of New Zealand’s top five links courses. This spectacular spot is perched between the pristine Pacific Ocean and the unspoilt Ōhiwa Harbour, delivering jaw-dropping scenery at every turn. Imagine the blend of salty sea breezes and crisp greens beneath your feet as you play a few rounds in the sunshine.
Just a short drive away in Whakatāne is the championship Whakatāne Golf Club, renowned for its challenging course and immaculately maintained turf. Whether you’re mastering your swing or sharing laughs at some wayward shots, these courses set the scene for endless fun.
Beyond the green
After your daytime dose of golf, unwind with walks along the endless golden sands of Ōhope Beach. Feeling adventurous? Explore nearby forest and bush trails, taking in the lush greenery unique to this region. With scenic bike trails peppered throughout, it’s easy to keep your fitness goals ticking over in the most stunning surroundings.
If you’d rather kick back and soak in the atmosphere, stop by Ōhope’s boutique shops. Grab a unique find to remember your trip or browse gift ideas for upcoming birthdays. Over in Whakatāne, The Strand is a haven for independent retailers, offering everything from charming homewares to gorgeous fashion.
Dining delights
No girls’ weekend is complete without great food, and Whakatāne delivers in spades. Indulge in waterfront dining at Fisherman’s Wharf or feast on Mexican-inspired delights at Cadera. For something more relaxed, visit Ōhope Beach Tavern or have coffee with a side of local charm at Moxi café.
Heading into town? The eats only get better. Try Volk & Co for artisan coffee, Roquette for fine dining that doesn’t hold back on flavour or Cigol for Korean Fusion that rivals its city counterparts. Round things off with beer tasting and pizza at Mata Brewery, or savour the smoky goodness at Smokin Goose with a pint in hand.
Stay in style
When it comes to accommodation, Ōhope and Whakatāne know how to make you feel right at home. Stay beachfront at one of Ōhope’s charming motels and apartments or treat yourself to the luxurious Ōhope Beach Top 10 Holiday Park. Complete with spa saunas right on the beach, you’ll wake up to the sound of waves and go to bed blissfully relaxed.
The Whakatāne town centre also boasts a range of accommodation options. From Riverside Whakatane Holiday Park to heritage suites at the Com-Plex, you’ll stay in comfort just a walk away from boutique shops and eateries.
Winter sunshine and unique experiences
Winter doesn’t mean gloom here. Whakatāne boasts some of the highest sunshine hours in New Zealand, making it an off-peak getaway unlike anywhere else. Crisp, clear mornings are the norm here. Start the day right with a polar plunge in crystal clear waters, followed by a sauna just a few steps away with The Sauna Project.
If time allows, explore some of the area’s hidden gems. Visit Moutohorā (Whale Island), a volcanic sanctuary teeming with rare wildlife, or walk the Nga Tapuwae o Toi Trail to the spectacular Otarawairere Bay.
Make it a weekend to remember
It’s time to upgrade your winter with a Whakatāne escape. Swap the chaos of everyday life for sunshine, laughter, and unforgettable moments with your favourite people. Whether you’re swinging clubs, strolling sunlit sands or indulging in the mouthwatering local cuisine, this is a girls’ weekend you deserve.
Winter blues? Not here. Only green fairways, golden sands, and sunshine-fuelled good times await.
