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Whakatane, near the eastern perimeter of the Bay of Plenty, lies on the coast near the northeastern limit of the Taupo Volcanic Zone. This region forms the southern extreme of the Pacific Ring of Fire, its molten mass silently fueling nearby Rotorua’s dazzling geysers and mud pools on its fiery path to the Central Plateau.
In this region, pyramid-shaped volcanic cones dot the landscape, whispering a promise of otherworldly sights and luxurious hot pools. The most famous of these cones, Whakaari (White Island), which lies 48kms off the coast, is one of the most accessible live volcanoes in the world. Plane and boat tours regularly visit the island from Whakatane, some taking visitors ashore for guided walks, while diving tours offshore reward visitors with clear waters and teeming fish life, viewed against a backdrop of underwater volcanic activity. Dolphin watching tours and fishing charters will also take visitors to explore these bountiful waters, and the Bay is one of the best spotz in New Zealand for surf casting, boasting long stretches of surf-kissed golden sand beaches. If that’s not enough reason to visit, Whakatane is on the doorstep of the North Island’s largest National Park, Te Urewera, whose rugged heights, dense bush and raging rivers are a paradise for lovers of nature in the wild, offering many opportunities for tramping, river rafting, kayaking, jet boating, trout fishing and hunting. From here, the startling heights of East Cape, glimpsed in the distance, beckon visitors to follow the pohutukawa-fringed coastal road towards the North Island’s most isolated and untamed corner. However SH2, which follows the Waioeka River through pristine native bush towards Gisborne’s sun-soaked vineyards, is a rewarding alternative.
Whakatane Accommodation "Our Pick"
Pacific Coast Motor Lodge $
14 ground
floor units with cooking facilities, comfy beds, LCD TVs and Free Wi-Fi. Located in the heart of Whakatane town centre.
41 Landing Road, Whakatane
Reviews/Book-Now
Tuscany Villas Motor Inn $
Luxurious motel accommodation in the heart of Whakatane, a stroll away from the waterfront.
57 The Strand, Whakatane
Reviews/Book-Now
White Island Rendezvous $
Nice 3 storey building with 22 studios and 2 apartments
opposite the wharf. Also B&B in Kauri Villa. Central location.
15 The Strand, Whakatane
Reviews/Book-Now
Barringtons Motor Lodge $
Fourteen self-contained ground-floor units, a short drive away from the main centre.
34 Landing Road, Whakatane
Reviews/Book-Now
No booking fees
- Pay hotel on arrival.
And in many cases rooms offer free cancellation.
Accommodation in Whakatane
Whakatane Activities "Our Selection"
White Island is an active volcano, about 50km off the coast.
- White Island Tours by boat -- Phone: (07) 308 9588
- Vulcan Helicopters -- Phone: (07) 308 4188
Diveworks Charters -- Phone: (07) 308 5896
Half day inshore fishing.
More..
Whale Island Tours - Swim with Dolphins and more.
96 The Strand,
(main fishing wharf) Phone: (07) 308 2001
More..
Bronze statue of Wairaka stands at Whakatane River mouth
Whakatane township sits between the River and the Bluff
Bay of Plenty Region - Whakatane
ACCOMMODATION SPECIALS & GUEST REVIEWS
Murals decorate the side of The Bean Cafe, Whakatane
Whakatane weather forecast on metservice.com