Moutohora - Lexie Brown

Lexie Brown and Moutohorā

In early 2021, The Bachelorette New Zealand's Lexie Brown paid a visit to long admired Moutohorā / Whale Island 

misslexiebrown "I’ve looked across the water at Moutohora all my life and only this year did I get to actually visit. @whakatane.nz, @whiteislandcafe & @moutohora took me over and it was a pretty special day for me in a place I call one of my homes. We saw loads of native birds and even a Tuatara in the wild and he was unreal 🥰 From the hot water beach, I could see Putauaki in the distance and it was a perspective I hadn’t seen him from before ⛰ You can only visit the island if you jump on a tour and I couldn’t not recommend it enough, especially if you’re local 💕" 

Coffee and gluten-free brownie

Café Awa

Born out of a love of good coffee, today Café Awa is a favourite of both coffee lovers and foodies alike. 

Moutohora Island tour_Strike 2

Moutohorā: Island Sanctuary Tour

Discover the rare beauty of one of New Zealand’s little-known treasures, Moutohorā / Whale Island a pest-free oasis.

More stories from Whakatāne

Trekker at Tauwhare Pa

Tauwhare Pā

The walk around Tauwhare is an opportunity to learn something of the district’s history and enjoy brilliant views over the harbour to Ohakana Island, Port Ōhope and the East Cape.

Wairaka Playground and River Walkway

Top things to do for kids

With our safe swimming beaches, sunny climate and abundance of nature on our doorstep, the Whakatāne District makes a great holiday getaway with the family.

Runners at The Heads

Sun to Surf, a picture postcard half-marathon

Sun to Surf is a unique and exciting oceanside event, which will take place on the final day of daylight saving. Starting in the late afternoon allowing competitors to run into the twilight from the scenic township of Whakatāne to the stunning finish on NZ's Best Loved Beach.

Tarawera Falls and Trekker

Tarawera Falls

A short walk through native bush alongside the crystal clear waters of the Tarawera River leads you to the spectacular Tarawera Falls.

West End Ohope Beach

Coastal Charm

Sun, sand, strolls along the beach… Ōhope is a little slice of paradise with so many options for families, couples, and solo travellers to enjoy this summer.

Family riding through bush

Cycle hub holiday!

Whakatāne makes an ideal holiday hub for rides like Moerangi and Motu Trails - with great stuff to do off the bike. You don’t have to look far for cycle fun in Whakatāne.