Whakatane is sometimes known as the birthplace of New Zealand. It was here that the great Polynesian navigator Toi te Huatahi first landed. The remains of his pa can still be found on the highest point of the Whakatane Heads, now the Wairaka Marae.

This lovely town enjoys the reputation of being one of the top three sunniest spots in New Zealand and because Ohope is just around the corner, so do we. The town is the closest harbour to White Island (Whakaari). Many visitors take a boat or plane trip to the island and are able to walk around its circumference, viewing steaming vents, bubbling mud, gasses and the main crater area - a fascinating experience.

Whakatane boasts a beautiful natural environment, fantastic beaches and a bustling township with a variety of cafes, restaurants and shopping opportunities. Also on offer are numerous adventure and marine based activities, including dolphin watching, scenic flights, fishing, and diving, swimming, surfing, tramping and visiting places of historical interest.

It's also a gateway town to the Urewera National Park, the largest protected native forest on New Zealand's North Island, offering numerous walking tracks for experienced hikers plus fantastic hunting and fishing opportunities.