Whakatane is a gorgeous New Zealand town, popular with honeymooners and those seeking a little bit of paradise. Whakatane beaches are unlike anything you've ever seen before. You'll want to live in the water as long as you're in town and hopefully your dream of one day swimming with the dolphins will come true.
Whakatane is beautiful and perfect for relaxing and soaking up the sun. There's also adventure to be had in Whakatane, which is why it remains one of New Zealand's most popular destinations.
Getting in and around Whakatane
Whakatane Airport
The Whakatane airport is a local attraction in itself with its unusual design. Architect Roger Walker designed the unusual looking airport in the 1970s. Today it's one of the best ways to travel to the region. The airport offers a small airport service from Auckland via Air Chathams. InterCity Coachlines and Bay Bus also offer bus routes into Whakatane from nearby Rotorua and Tauranga. Driving your own car or a rental car is also a possibility for getting into Whakatane.
Whakatane Transport
For getting around Whakatane, there are numerous shuttle services available.
Whakatane Car Hire
Car hire is arguably the best way to get around Whakatane and the surrounding areas. You'll have the most freedom and flexibility with a rental car. Whakatane car hire is available in town and at the airport through Hertz.
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Whakatane accommodation
Whakatane accommodation is somewhat limited. Nevertheless, you'll find a few backpackers resorts, motels and hotels where you can catch a good night's sleep in Whakatane.
Luxury
Tuscany Villas is conveniently located near beautiful Whakatane beaches and the owners overflow with friendliness and customer service. The Tuscany Village Motor Inn is conveniently located near beautiful Whakatane beaches and owners overflow with friendliness and customer service.
Mid-range
Barringtons Motor Lodge in Whakatane ensures that you have a delightful stay in one of New Zealand's favourite tourist towns.
Awa Motel has beautifully appointed rooms to suit any needs, including micro cabins. Barringtons Motor Lodge in Whakatane ensures that you have a delightful stay in one of New Zealand's favourite tourist towns.
Budget
Pacific Coast Motor Lodge. Enjoy Whakatane in this excellent accommodation, and it's only five minutes away from the centre of town. The White Island Rendezvous Hotel is just a short distance from the ferry to White Island and has beautifully appointed rooms at an affordable price.
Pacific Coast Motor Lodge. Enjoy Whakatane in this excellent accommodation, and it's only 5 minutes away from the centre of town.
Backpackers
Whakatane Hotel provides a range of accommodation types for on-the-go travellers looking for an affordable stay in Whakatane. Karibu Backpackers prides itself on friendly service and quality accommodation for on-the-go travellers looking for an affordable stay in Whakatane.
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Things to do in Whakatane
Whakatane is an incredible town with beautiful surrounding scenery. Go fishing for yellowfin tuna or take a trip to the museum, observatory and Maori historical sites. Don't miss the chance to swim with the dolphins on the beautiful Whakatane beaches.
Swim with the dolphins. Everyone dreams of swimming with playful dolphins, and in Whakatane you can do just that. Diveworks Charters is a diving and snorkelling tour company that also offers special trips where you can swim with real wild dolphins.
Hiking and walking tours. There are numerous walks in the area that offer an interesting and active way to see the sights. Take in historic sites such as the Muriwai Lookout. You can also enjoy nearby nature walks for those who love the great outdoors.
Whakatane Museum and Arts. Explore the history of Whakatane at the Whakatane Museum. Here you'll find photographs, artefacts and other treasures mapping out the region's rich history.
Awakeri Hot Springs. When you need a little rest and relaxation the natural way, Awakeri Hot Springs delivers. At this holiday park, you can pack and picnic and barbecue with friends while you enjoy the incredible thermal pool.
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Day trips in and around Whakatane
Big game fishing. Big game fishing is one of the area's most popular attractions and guided tours to the hottest fishing areas are an ideal trip for avid fishers. There are numerous charter companies in the area that offer fishing tours.
Whakatane water sports. From the ocean to the wild nearby rivers, Whakatane is a popular spot for daredevil water sport enthusiasts. Take a thrilling white water rafting tour down the Rangitaiki River or hop on a jet boat on the Motu River.
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