Whakatane - Discovering New Zealand

Travelling to Whakatane

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Whakatane, a pretty good destination in New Zealand (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Whakatane and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Whakatane, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through New Zealand, here's everything to know about Whakatane for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Whakatane

Whakatane is a town situated in the Eastern Bay of Plenty region of New Zealand. It is located on the North Island of the country and is approximately 90 miles southeast of Auckland. With a population of around 20,000 people, Whakatane is the largest town in the Bay of Plenty district. It is known for its stunning landscapes, including beautiful beaches, lush forests, and the Whakatane River, which is popular for fishing and water sports. Additionally, Whakatane is a great base for exploring the nearby White Island, an active volcanic island that is accessible by boat tours.

What to visit in Whakatane

Sure, here are some of the tourist attractions of Whakatane, New Zealand along with some information about each one: 1. Whale Island: This is a wildlife sanctuary located just off the coast of Whakatane. Visitors can take a guided tour to see the island's native bird species and marine life.
2. Ohope Beach: This is a popular spot for sunbathing, surfing, and swimming. The beach is known for its clear waters, scenic views, and unspoiled beauty.
3. Moutohora Island: This is a small island near Whakatane that is home to a variety of wildlife, including penguins, seals, and dolphins. Visitors can take a guided tour to explore the island's natural beauty and learn about its history.
4. Te Papakura o Tawhaki: This is a historic Maori pa (fortress) located in the hills above Whakatane. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the site's significance to Maori culture and history.
5. Mataatua Wharenui: This is a beautiful Maori meeting house that has been fully restored and is open to the public for tours. Visitors can learn about Maori culture and history while admiring the intricate carvings and artwork.
6. Ohiwa Harbour: This is a picturesque natural harbor that is popular for sailing, fishing, and kayaking. Visitors can take a boat tour to explore the harbor's beauty and wildlife.
7. White Island: This is an active volcano located off the coast of Whakatane. Visitors can take a guided tour to explore the island's unique landscape and learn about its geothermal activity.
Overall, Whakatane is a beautiful and diverse destination with plenty of natural beauty and cultural attractions to explore.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in New Zealand, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Whakatane

The best time to visit Whakatane, New Zealand is during the summer months, from December to February. The temperatures are warm, ranging from 20-25°C (68-77°F), and the skies are clear, making it perfect to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, and surfing. However, keep in mind that this is also the peak tourist season, so accommodation and attractions may be more expensive and crowded. If you prefer cooler weather and fewer crowds, you can visit during the autumn months from March to May or during spring from September to November.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Whakatane

Whakatane is a small coastal town located in the Bay of Plenty region on the North Island of New Zealand. There are a few options for getting to Whakatane: 1. By Car: Whakatane is accessible by car from major cities in the North Island, such as Auckland, Rotorua, and Tauranga. The journey takes around 2-3 hours from Auckland, 1-2 hours from Tauranga, and 1 hour from Rotorua.
2. By Bus: InterCity operates daily bus services from major cities in the North Island to Whakatane. The journey takes around 5-6 hours from Auckland and 2-3 hours from Rotorua.
3. By Air: Air New Zealand operates daily flights from Auckland to Whakatane Airport, with a flight time of approximately 1 hour. Once you arrive in Whakatane, there are several activities to do such as visiting the White Island, do some hiking, visit its beaches or learn from its Maori culture.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Whakatane, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Whakatane

Whakatane is known for its delicious seafood, as well as its unique take on traditional Maori cuisine. Here are some typical foods of Whakatane with a short description for each of them: 1. Kaimoana: This is a general Maori term for seafood, which is abundant in Whakatane. Local favorites include crayfish (rock lobster), paua (abalone), kina (sea urchin), and various types of fish such as snapper, tarakihi, and kingfish.
2. Boil-up: A traditional Maori dish that consists of pork bones, potatoes, pumpkin, kumara (sweet potato), and other vegetables boiled in a pot with a seasoning of salt and pepper. It is hearty and flavorful, perfect for a cold day.
3. Hangi: Another traditional Maori method of cooking, where meat and vegetables are cooked in an underground oven over heated stones. This process infuses a smoky and earthy flavor to the food and is usually accompanied by a type of bread called rewana.
4. Kiwifruit: Whakatane is the largest producer of kiwifruit in New Zealand. This juicy fruit is known for its sweet and tangy flavor with a soft flesh and a fuzzy skin. It can be eaten as is or used in desserts, salads, and smoothies.
5. Pavlova: A dessert that is so popular in New Zealand and Australia, it is often claimed by both countries as their own. It is made with a meringue base, whipped cream, and topped with fresh fruits such as kiwifruit, strawberries, or passionfruit. It is light, fluffy, and deliciously sweet.
You can find general info about typical foods in New Zealand here.

Is Whakatane an expensive destination for tourists?

Whakatane is considered to be a moderately priced tourist destination in New Zealand. While certain attractions or accommodations may be more expensive than others, overall the cost of living in Whakatane is relatively lower than in major cities such as Auckland or Wellington. Travelers can expect to spend an average of NZD 150-250 per day on accommodations, food, and activities in Whakatane. However, prices may vary depending on the time of year and specific activities or accommodations chosen.

Where to find accomodation in Whakatane

The best areas to find accommodation to visit Whakatane (New Zealand) are: 1. Whakatane town center: This area is the heart of the town and has a range of accommodation options, from hotels to motels to bed and breakfasts. It is easily accessible to the town's attractions and amenities.
2. Ohope Beach: This is a popular beachside suburb of Whakatane, just a few minutes' drive from the town center. It offers stunning views of the ocean and a range of accommodation options, including campsites, apartments, and holiday homes.
3. White Island: White Island is a volcanic island located offshore from Whakatane. If you are planning to visit the island, you may want to stay in the town center, as most tours depart from there.
You can check hotel prices at Whakatane here:
Booking.com

Is Whakatane a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Whakatane is generally a safe place for tourists. The crime rate in this city is low, and violent crime is uncommon. However, like any tourist destination, it is still important to use common sense and take precautions to keep yourself and your belongings safe. This includes keeping your valuables secure, being aware of your surroundings, and avoiding walking alone at night in poorly lit areas. You should also follow any safety advice provided by your hotel or tour operator, as well as local authorities.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in New Zealand here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Whakatane.

What type of travelers will enjoy Whakatane the most?

Whakatane, New Zealand offers something for all types of travelers. As it is a coastal town, it is particularly suitable for those who love the ocean and water activities such as fishing, kayaking, surfing, and snorkeling. In terms of accommodation, there are options for couples in romantic and secluded locations, such as beachfront resorts or private cottages. Families will find child-friendly attractions like the Mataatua Wharenui Maori Cultural Centre and the White Island Tours. There are also plenty of hiking trails and other outdoor activities that will appeal to young travelers who are looking for adventure. So, to sum up, Whakatane is an all-around destination that caters to everyone's interests and styles.

How to get around Whakatane

In Whakatane, you can use several modes of transportation to get around: 1. Walking: Whakatane is a compact town, and you can easily explore the town's main attractions on foot.
2. Cycling: There are plenty of cycling tracks and trails in Whakatane. You can rent bicycles from local rental shops or book a guided cycling tour.
3. Private car: You can rent a car or hire a taxi to get around Whakatane.
4. Public transportation: Whakatane has a public bus service that runs daily, except on Sundays and public holidays. The buses run on several different routes within the town and to nearby towns.
5. Water transport: You can explore the Whakatane river or take a boat ride to White Island (an active volcanic island) from the Whakatane Harbour.

What to see around Whakatane

Sure, here are some great places to visit on a day trip from Whakatane in New Zealand: 1. White Island - This active volcanic island can be visited via boat or helicopter tours and offers stunning views of the volcano and its surroundings.
2. Ohope Beach - This beautiful beach is located just a few minutes from Whakatane and is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing on the sand.
3. Te Urewera National Park - A stunning wilderness area of forest and mountains that is perfect for hiking, fishing, and bird watching.
4. Rotorua - Known for its geothermal activity, Rotorua is a popular destination for tourists with plenty of things to do including visiting hot springs, geysers and mud pools.
5. Mount Maunganui - This is a popular beach destination with a beautiful beach, hiking track, outdoor activities and perfect for relaxing.
6. Mataatua Wharenui - A beautifully restored Maori meeting house that offers insights into the Maori culture and way of life.
7. Ohiwa Harbour - A peaceful sanctuary for birdlife that is perfect for kayaking, boating and visiting the nearby islands.
8. Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland - A natural wonder with boiling mud pools and an array of colorful hot springs and craters to explore.
These are just a few of many places that you can visit on a day trip from Whakatane.
For every travel information about New Zealand you can click here.

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