Welcome To Whakatāne

Whakatāne is a town and district in the Bay of Plenty region of New Zealand, known for its sunny climate, beautiful coastline, and rich Māori history and culture.

Geography and Climate
Located on the coast of the Eastern Bay of Plenty, Whakatāne boasts a 54-kilometer stretch of sandy beaches, from Otamarakau in the west to Ohiwa in the east. The town is situated at the mouth of the Whakatāne River and is considered one of the sunniest places in New Zealand.

History and Culture
Whakatāne has a deep connection to Māori history and is considered one of the first areas in New Zealand to be settled by Māori. According to legend, the town’s name, which means “to act like a man,” comes from the cry of the ancestress Wairaka, who saved the Mataatua canoe from drifting out to sea. This history is reflected in the strong presence of Māori culture and language, with a significant Māori population (48.6% as of the 2023 Census) and key iwi (tribes) including Ngāti Awa, Tūhoe, and Te Whakatōhea. The Mataatua Wharenui, a historically significant and well-traveled Māori meeting house, has returned home to Whakatāne and is a major cultural attraction.

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Demographics and Economy
As of June 2024, the Whakatāne District had an estimated population of 38,300. The median age is 40.2 years, slightly higher than the national average. The local economy is diverse, with major industries including:

Agriculture and Horticulture: The fertile soil supports a variety of activities, including dairy farming, kiwifruit, and market gardens. The draining of the Rangitāiki Plains in the early 20th century transformed the area into productive farmland.
Forestry: A significant portion of the district is planted in exotic forests, and the pulp and paper mills at Whakatāne and Kawerau are large employers.
Fishing: Whakatāne is a renowned fishing destination, particularly known for catching yellowfin tuna.
Tourism: With its natural beauty and outdoor activities, tourism is a growing industry.
Things to Do
Whakatāne offers a wide range of outdoor and cultural activities:
Nature and Walks: Explore the stunning landscape with walks like the Ngā Tapuwae o Toi trail, which offers breathtaking coastal views and passes through native bush. You can also experience the unique ecosystem of Moutohorā (Whale Island), a pest-free eco-sanctuary accessible by guided tours.
Beaches: Relax on the golden sands of Ōhope Beach, which is popular for swimming, surfing, and beachside activities.
Fishing: Go deep-sea fishing for species like kingfish, marlin, and snapper, or try your hand at trout fishing in local rivers and lakes.
Cultural Experiences: Visit the Whakatāne Museum and Research Centre to learn about the region’s history, or experience the living culture at the Mataatua Wharenui.
Unique Activities: The region is known as the “Kiwi Capital of the World,” with a population of wild kiwis, and night walks are available for those who want to hear their calls. Other activities include dolphin and seal encounters, kayaking, and visiting the Awakeri Rail Adventures.