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Surfer at Ohope Beach

Whakatāne - New Zealand's Sunshine Capital!

After a five-year hiatus, Whakatāne officially holds the sought-after New Zealand 'Sunshine Capital' title!

(Originally Published in January 2021)

The official announcement has crowned Whakatāne 'Sunshine Capital' of New Zealand for the fifth time since records kept by the National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (NIWA) began. Not to mention, we continue to be the reigning champion for the North Island.

We'd like to extend a warm welcome to the rest of New Zealand to take a break from their lack of sunshine hours, and come and share ours!

This fantastic accolade confirms what we already know - that Whakatāne has everything under the sun, and plenty of sun at that. 

We have an abundance of sunshine throughout the year, which only adds to the magic of the Eastern Bay of Plenty.

There are so many things to experience here - rich cultural history, secluded beaches, boutique shopping and incredible outdoor adventures right on our back doorstep.

A total of 2704 sunshine hours recorded in 2020 put Whakatāne 89 hours ahead of second-place Richmond, the 2019 winner.  We also took out first place in the sunshine stakes for January, February, May and December!

Whakatāne is the perfect place to soak up an extended summer!

We welcome anyone who has yet to decide on a holiday destination this year, to come and enjoy the spectacular weather and excellent hospitality we're known for.

From the safe white sand beach of Ōhope, with surfing at West End, to the secluded beach of Ōtarawairere, the district is a beach lover’s paradise. 

A selection of the superb activities available during your stay in Whakatāne.

Sun. Surf. Adventure. Shopping. Relaxation. What more could you want?

Enjoy the hidden gems, people, and places of the Eastern Bay of Plenty with our uniquely designed itineraries and enjoy the 'road less travelled'.

Things to do in the sun!

This path for cyclists and walkers alike is a gentle amble for all ages and abilities along the shoreline of one of NZ’s most unspoiled estuaries, Ōhiwa Harbour. 

Te Urewera Treks provides a range of unique eco-cultural wilderness treks, bringing you a truly special guided walking experience.

Walk over rolling farmland which leads up to native bush and a trig station. There you can enjoy superb views over the Rangitāiki Plains.

Te Wairere Falls is a sacred landmark to all of Mataatua. One of the most beautiful and historically significant places in Whakatāne.

The entranceway to Ōhope Scenic Reserve features a traditional carved entranceway. The reserve itself is home to a large number of kiwi.

Kaputerangi or Toi's Pā is of major historical significance and is part of the Kohi Point Scenic Reserve.

Learn of the district's history and enjoy brilliant views of Ohakana Island, Port Ōhope and the East Cape.

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

Ready to lock it in? Still have questions?

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