Warren Cole and River Edge Walk and Cycleways

If you're keen for an easy cycling cruise or walk with lots to see, Warren Cole Walk and Cycleway along the riverside trail is superb. One trail end is by the Whakatāne River bridge on Landing Road; the other is near the Whakatāne Heads. It's fully sealed/paved.

You'll be alongside the river the whole way. Near the Whakatāne River mouth, you can watch the Pacific Ocean swell rolling in. Upriver from here, the Whakatāne wharves usually have plenty going on, perfect if you're with kids. About midway on the track, the river has large areas of salt marsh. If you enjoy bird-watching, there are many species to spot.

Difficulty: Easy
Length: 4.3 km
Total vertical climb: About 10 m
Inclination: Flat as a pancake
Surface: Paved
Category: Easy, family riding

The Warren Cole walkway starts at Landing Road and follows the southern bank of the river to the Whakatāne Gardens, the Skate Park and River Edge Playground. The path leads onto The Promenade, which passes the Whakatāne Visitor Information Centre, and then onto the River Edge walkway to The Heads.

Bordered by the Whakatāne River on one side and bush-clad cliffs on the other, Whakatāne's commercial centre must have one of the most scenic settings any town could wish for. The major historic and scenic features of the town are included in this interesting and easy walk, which follows the river to the Whakatāne Heads where the river meets the sea.

The Whakatāne wharf was once a busy coastal shipping cargo and passenger port. The wharf and estuary are now homes to many commercial and recreational fishing boats, the Whakatāne Sports Fishing Club and restaurants. The riverbank path leads downstream through the Mataatua Reserve. This reclaimed land covers the original landing place of the Mataatua waka and includes a shelter, which houses a replica of the Mataatua waka.

Further on is the big game fishing weigh station and launching ramp, often a hive of activity as the waters offshore are renowned for tuna, billfish and shark fishing. Past the playground is "The Heads" where the Whakatāne River rushes into the sea through a narrow gap studded by rocks. Across the river, a bronze statue of Wairaka stands atop the largest rock. This commemorates her courageous defiance of tradition which not only saved the Mataatua waka but gave the town and district its name.

Returning towards the town centre, along the road is Muriwai's cave. Muriwai was an aunt of Wairaka and lived in the cave in the latter part of her life. A famed priestess, her advice was much sought after.