The Ultimate Guide 2021 Rotorua

2021

THE ULTIMATE GUIDE ROTORUA & BAY OF PLENTY

PLEASE LEAVE

the Ultimate Guide here for others to enjoy

get the ultimate guide in your pocket DOWNLOAD THE APP

ultimate guide nz

The Ultimate Guide Rotorua & Bay of Plenty 2021

02

07

09

ROTORUA

LAKES & FOREST

12

GREAT WALKS & BIKE TRAILS

16

MUST SEE – MUST DO

20

24

28

34

PICNIC SPOTS

BAY OF PLENTY

FAMILY FRIENDLY

SOAK

BEST BEACHES

Proudly published by www.ninetyblack.com since 1997 Tēnā koutou to our contributors! A huge shout out to Destination Rotorua, our local operators, and our visitors and instagrammers who supplied us with imagery to share with our readers.  cover image courtesy of Secret Spot Rotorua

2|

The Ultimate Guide

Welcome to Rotorua Let the spirit of manaakitanga envelop you

A

s one of the most active geothermal and volcanic regions of the world, many of Rotorua’s attractions are based around its greatest natural assets; the lakes and geothermal activity.

Rotorua also has a reputation as a spa destination. Visitors travel from all over the world to marvel at the beauty of silica formations and bathe in the therapeutic mineral waters.

A heartland of gleaming lakes, bubbling mud, hot springs and New Zealand’s captivating Māori culture, Rotorua is host to some of the world’s most incredible earth forces.

Bursting with must-see and do activities, walk or bike in a giant 5,600-hectare Californian Redwood forest, explore native bush, visit a wildlife reserve or raft a seven-metre waterfall.

HOME 1167 Fenton Street, Rotorua Phone-Square-Alt (07) 348 5179

This is our official information network where you can find out about local attractions, accommodation, transport and anything you may need help with in Rotorua.

Open 7 days 8.30am – 5.00pm

The Ultimate Guide

FAST FACTS HISTORY AND CULTURE Discover the essence of Māori culture in Rotorua’s enveloping warmth, undeniable spirit and deep sense of heritage as you encounter the many Māori experiences during your stay.

Rotorua in Māori means ‘second lake’, its history dating back to 1350AD when Polynesian voyagers originally settled in the area by the canoe ‘Te Arawa’. The

dynamic Māori culture lives on through the descendants of the Te Arawa tribe – sharing their culture, history, art, music and language in a variety of enriching encounters.

Enjoy a hangi (traditional Māori food cooked under-ground), cultural performance, traditional massage or visit a Māori carver or weaver. You are sure to experience the best of Māori hospitality in Rotorua.

Rotorua was constituted a special town under the Thermal Springs Act in 1883 The characteristic smell in the air is the scent of sulphur due to the many geothermal hotspots

35 18

There are 35 marae (meeting grounds) in Rotorua Rotorua boasts 18 lakes (15 of them are fishable) and 3 major rivers

USEFUL INFORMATION

Emergency (police, fire, ambulance): Dial 111

Rotorua Airport

HOME 1837 Te Ngae Road Owhata, Rotorua

Rotorua Police:

Rotorua Hospital:

Phone-Square-Alt (07) 349 9554 HOME 1190-1214 Fenton St

Phone-Square-Alt (07) 348 1199 HOME Arawa St

|3

4|

The Ultimate Guide

In the heart of New Zealand, experience a slice of real Middle-earth™ and step into the lush pastures of the Shire™ with a guided tour of Hobbiton™ Movie Set, as featured in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit Trilogies. You will be taken around the 12-acre set; past Hobbit Holes™, the Mill and into the world-famous Green Dragon™ Inn, where you will be presented with a complimentary, exclusive Hobbit™ Southfarthing™ beverage to conclude your own Middle-earth adventure.

The Ultimate Guide

|5

Experience Te Puia, Experience New Zealand Make Te Puia top of your itinerary when planning your family holiday this Summer, nestled in the stunning Te Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley. A place of powerful energies, natural beauty and rich history.

H

ome to the magnificent Pōhutu geyser, bubbling mud pools and bush walks, local Māori have been living here for almost 700 years. Nourished by those energies that continue to shape our people and our culture today, Te Puia takes its origin from that heritage with our guides linking directly to Rotorua’s earliest hosts. The stories they relay to our visitors have been told for generations, handed down through their individual families.

Our guided tours feature the Pōhutu geyser, mud pools, hot springs and silica formations.

Visitors will also see skilful artisans create timeless pieces in the arts of carving and weaving at the New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute.

Te Puia’s Kiwi Conservation Centre is an exciting addition to the park and is a must see this Summer, housing

five resident kiwis in state-of-the-art enclosures.

And after experiencing our geothermal and cultural legacy first-hand, Pātaka Kai restaurant serves delicious lunch and dinner options, and amazing coffee with spectacular views of the valley!

Operating days are as follows: 1 December to 24 December, 2020: Te Puia’s opening hours are 10.00am to 4.00pm, Wednesday to Sunday.

27 December to 6 February, 2021: Te Puia’s opening hours are 10.00am to 4.00pm, seven days a week.

All day passes are now ‘double the adventure’ - valid for two consecutive days. See www.tepuia.com for family specials. www.tepuia.com

Hemo Rd, Rotorua

(07) 348 9047

info@tepuia.com

tepuia.rotorua.nz/

@tepuia

6|

The Ultimate Guide

The Ultimate Guide

Lakes and Forests

|7

L AKE ROTOMAHANA - THE WARM L AKE Shaped by the 1886 Tarawera eruption and harbouring the Pink and White Terraces, Rotomahana is a wildlife refuge and home to the purest strain of rainbow trout in the world. @murtignos

THE REDWOODS

The Redwoods of Whakarewarewa Forest is a world of its own - full of magnificent towering native and exotic trees. Perfect for walkers, runners, hikers, horse riders and mountain bikers.

L AKE OKAREKA

Renowned for its beauty and another great lake for jumping in for a swim. Take the family on the boardwalk through wetlands rich in aquatic life or have a picnic at Boyes Beach. @mk_hit_theroad

MAMAKU

One of Rotorua’s ‘pockets’ or hidden treasures, the area is brimming with rich history, virgin New Zealand forest, and plenty to see and do with a cluster of adventure activities and attractions to keep the whole family entertained.

L AKE TIKITAPU

L AKE TARAWERA

@michelle_turner_nz

@jade.vercoe

One of the most popular for watersports – swim, play or relax on the shore or launch your vessel. Enjoy crystal clear water, family-friendly areas for picnics, and walk Blue Lake Track, an easy 5.5km loop around the lake.

Meaning ‘Burnt Spear’, this is the largest of the lakes that surround Mount Tarawera and was home to many small Māori villages and mission settlements before the 1886 eruption. Catch the water taxi to Hot Water Beach and enjoy soaking in the hot spring-fed stream that trickles into the lake.

8|

The Ultimate Guide

The Ultimate Guide

|9

Family Friendly ROTORUA DUCK TOURS

A quacking fun journey for the entire family through Rotorua’s stunning lakes district on a genuine amphibious WWII landing craft.

L AKE TARAW ERA Suitable for all ages from as young as 4 years old, the fun of a horse trek adventure in Rotorua is equally matched by stunning scenery and countryside.  rotoruanz.com

LOCAL WI L DL I F E From farm animals to lions and native New Zealand Kiwi, there are plenty of opportunities for close encounters of the animal kind - spotting native birds like tui, bellbirds, fantails and pigeons from a treetops walk, and watching lion feeding live!

@ash.evangelista

HOBBI T EN COU N TERS Just 1 hour up the road, explore the magical place where parts of Lord of the Rings was filmed, it's a journey to another world! Step into the enchanting village of Hobbiton, explore the lush pastures of the Shire, you can even enjoy an evening banquet or second breakfast!  rotoruanz.com

10 |

The Ultimate Guide

Create your own or gift an experience using our ‘click and go’ voucher system

ACCOMMODATION Find a place to stay...

ATTRACTIONS Explore things to do...

DINING Feed the soul...

www.rotoruatouristattractions.nz

welcome to

paradise

rotorua's most

interactive wildlife park

GENERATE VOUCHERS

- PERFECT FOR GIFTS

PARADISE VALLEY SPRINGS 467 PARADISE VALLEY ROAD, ROTORUA LION FEEDING 2.30PM EVERY DAY

The Ultimate Guide

LAKEVIEW

GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

Spectacular Views Are Par For The Course!

Cruise the natural wonders in style NZ’s only stern-wheel paddle driven vessel, the Lakeland Queen offers a range of 1 hour scenic cruises, capturing the very best of Lake Rotorua’s natural wonders while you dine. Join us on this relaxing experience and witness the geothermal area of Sulphur Bay, stunning lake views including Mokoia Island and the city.

We offer a unique 18 hole golf course set in a natural environment with reasonable green fee rates. On site pro shop (open daily), equipment & cart hire available.

  *Mention this ad and receive 10% discount

Lakefront, Memorial Dr, Rotorua (07) 348 0265 info@lakelandqueen.com lakelandqueen.com

704, SH5, Rotorua (3min drive North of Agrodome) T: 07 357 2341 | W: lakeviewgolf.co.nz | E: lakeview@golf.co.nz

Treks:

Native Bush Trek Lake Okareka Trek Trig Point/Farm Trek

Tarawera Trek de Children’s Lead Rein Ri

HORSE TREKKING Lake Okareka .

| 11

12 |

The Ultimate Guide

Great Walks and Bike Trails

T UH OTO A RIKI At a distance of around 5km, this Grade 4 trail is a dual purpose track for both riders and walkers to enjoy lush native bush. The trail starts from the highest point in the Whakarewarewa forest at 765 metres. @mudmaidens

RAI N BOW M OU N TAI N (M OU N T K AK ARAM EA) The 360° views at the summit of Rainbow Mountain are one of the best in the area. You can walk or bike many paths on this mountain, view two crater lakes, take a soak in the hot pools, or challenge yourself on the summit track. @where_you_at_g

THE R E DWO O DS 130km of continually evolving trails, unbeatable riding surfaces, varying topography, and riding areas for beginners through to experts. The Redwoods trail network is why Rotorua is renowned as a premier mountain biking destination.

TE ARA AHI Dubbed 'Thermal by Bike', Te Ara Ahi is a leisurely trail.

Stretching between Rotorua city centre (i-SITE) and Waikite Valley, journey through a unique geothermal field (five significant geothermal parks) passing bubbling mud pools and spectacular geysers while you ride. Te Ara Ahi is part of the New Zealand Cycle Trail and accesses a range of other tourism ventures on the way.

The Ultimate Guide

OKERE FALLS TRACK Okere Falls is a beautiful spot 23km north of Rotorua city. The Okere Falls Tracks is an easy, well-formed bush walk approx 3km (return) with viewing platforms with great views of waterfalls, and white water rafters and kayakers sweeping over the highest commercially rafted waterfall in the world (7 metres). Through native bushland, you finish up at Kaituna Trout Pool, a popular local fishing spot where you can often spot trout swimming against the current. @drhvisuals

TARAWE RA T RAIL Well-known for being one of the best walks in Rotorua, this is a 15km trail that winds around Lake Tarawera. This is an approx. 3hr one-way trail, with plenty of picnic and swim spots along the way. If you are not up for the return journey, the trail ends at Te RÄ tÄ Bay (Hot Water Beach) - where you can finish with a hot soak and book the water taxi for the return trip. @adventuringandrew

| 13

14 |

The Ultimate Guide

CRAVING AN ADVENTURE?

Use promo code RAFT and save 30%

The original Kaituna rafting company

Take on the world’s highest commercially rafted waterfall!

KAITUNACASCADES.CO.NZ

BOOK NOW: 027 276 5457 INFO@KAITUNACASCADES.CO.NZ

The Ultimate Guide

MAKE THIS SUMMER SPECIAL

P +64 7 348 1328 A L A K E S I D E , H I N E M O A S T , R O T O R U A | P O L Y N E S I A N S P A . C O . N Z

| 15

16 |

The Ultimate Guide

REDWOODS TREEWALK Another innovation offering a unique adventure for the whole family. Built amongst the majestic Redwoods of Whakarewarewa Forest (one of the oldest exotic forests in New Zealand), walk along suspension bridges 20 metres high for a bird’s eye perspective of the forest below. Walk it day or night (lit by lanterns), or take it to the next level with the Altitude experience 25 metres high! @layersofred

Must see – Must do

The Ultimate Guide

| 17

G EOTHER M AL WON DERS Geysers, bubbling mud, steaming vents, and boiling lakes seem to be at every turn in Rotorua. Hot pools are in abundance, but so are thermal safaris and a mystical hot spring waterfall with NZ Riverjet. Rotorua has some spectacular geothermal parks to explore (guided or unguided) including Kuirau Park – popular because it’s just a few minutes’ walk from the city centre. @yarnewullaert

C U LTU RAL EXP ER I EN C E Learn about New Zealand’s indigenous history and culture with guided tours, art gallery, kids’ activities, geysers and a kiwi sanctuary. Te Puia is an inspiring all-day option for the family, complete with restaurant for a coffee, snack or meal.  Te Puia

M O UN T TA RAWERA Standing 1,111 metres tall, this volcano consists of a series of rhyolitic lava domes, the eruption in 1886 being one of New Zealand’s largest in history. It is surrounded by several lakes, most of which were created or drastically altered by the eruption. Take a helicopter flight to the top or a guided walk for a unique adventure and rewarding, educational experience.

M OUN T N GO N GOTAHA Towering over the city, from base to peak Mt. Ngongotaha will tick something off your list. For walkers, enjoy the easy Nature Loop Track (2.5km loop) or take the Jubilee Track (2.4km return) to reach the summit. For those wanting activities, at Skyline you can gondola to the top and mountain bike, luge, zipline, skyswing, shop, wine taste, and dine at Stratosfare Restaurant. @skippyjoyce09

18 |

The Ultimate Guide

Selfie Spots Kerosene Creek

 Vaughan Brookfield

Rainbow Mountain @asinedclots

Tutea Falls

@rotoruarafting

Mount Tarawera @taylordunc

L ake Tarawera @alysiacole

The Ultimate Guide

TRANQUIL

geothermal bathing

come & enjoy!

100% pure natural geothermal water, direct from the largest single source of boiling water in New Zealand provides a natural geothermal bathing experience for all to enjoy.

648 Waikite Valley Rd, Rotorua (07) 333 1861 info@hotpools.co.nz hotpools.co.nz

Opening Hours: 10.30am – 8.00pm daily (except for Christmas Day and Boxing Day)

| 19

20 |

The Ultimate Guide

Swimming Spots WAIKITE VALLEY The ‘living waters’ of Te Manaroa Spring is the largest single source of 100% pure boiling water in New Zealand. Aside from a relaxing soak in a fantastic outdoor setting, you can also explore the Te Manaroa Spring eco-trail. @maridaisy90

SECRET SPOT Soak in fresh forest spring water in your own secluded cedar hot tub, day or night. The freshly-filtered water bubbles away at a nice 38 to 40°C. If you’re not up for a full soak, grab a drink and have a complimentary “shinny dip” – soak those tired legs in mini cedar hot tubs on the boardwalk. @georg.birch

POLYNESIAN SPA New Zealand’s original geothermal bathing experience.

Soak in the therapeutic waters from two natural springs that feed into 28 hot pools; the slightly acidic Priest Spring waters relieve tired muscles, aches and pains while the alkaline waters of the Rachel Spring nourish the skin. @jesshaines

The Ultimate Guide

H OT WAT E R BEACH Te Rātā Bay in Lake Tarawera is home to Hot Water Beach – a natural hot spring that feeds into the lake and makes for a fantastic soaking spot. The beach is accessible by boat (water taxi available), or there is a nonpowered campsite located in Lake Tarawera Scenic Reserve, and you access the beach via the Tarawera Trail. @maridaisy90

KEROSENE CREEK Enjoy free hot spring bathing just 35km south of Rotorua. Ease your aches and pains in a stream that flows downhill through natural bush. @lost_in_honey

KUIRAU PARK Wander the park’s numerous walkways to discover boiling lakes and bubbling mud. Soak your feet in the hot foot pools.

Also featuring beautiful gardens, barbecue areas, picnic tables and a children’s playground, Kuirau Park is perfect for a family outing. @lost_in_honey

| 21

22 |

The Ultimate Guide

Buried Village Where stories of the Tarawera Eruption come to life

ICE BEST PR RTING A K O G ORUA IN ROT R ACE ON ONE OF THE BOOKINGS SL IPPERIEST GESSENTIAL O -K A R T TR ACKS IN NE W ZEA L A ND! Special Conditions apply, Subject to change without notification.

Our race track is not your normal “POINT THE GO-KART AND IT GOES THERE” Race surface. Oh no, that’s far too easy!

On our track the wheels lose traction and you hold on as the Kart slides sideways.

Come and try our new 400cc engines! More power, more slide!

Bookings Essential Special Conditions apply, subject to change without notification. Min age of 12 years, min height of 1.5 metres.

A: 10 Old Taupo Road, Rotorua P: 07 345 6211 E: admindriftkartz@xtra.co.nz

www.driftkartz.co.nz

Stories of survival and resilience are told throughout our museum exhibits and in over 1km of heritage excavations.

Wander through our beautiful park where the people of Te Wairoa lived before the eruption which includes the Te Wairoa Stream and waterfall walk. Often described as peaceful and tranquil, the regeneration hides the scars of one of New Zealand’s deadliest disasters.

Run by four generations of the Smith Family for nearly 90 years, the Buried Village is one of Rotorua’s iconic tourist destinations and New Zealand’s most visited archaeological site. You can choose from a self-guided experience or ask our

A 1180 Tarawera Road, Rotorua T 07-362 8287 E discover@buriedvillage.co.nz W buriedvillage.co.nz

friendly team for guided tour times. There is even a treasure trail for the young and young at heart.

Finish off your experience with us with a delicious bite to eat in our licensed café.

Located 20 minutes from Rotorua’s CBD, take a picturesque drive through the Lakes District, where you will find us just past Rotorua’s Blue and Green Lakes.

“Amazing place to visit and bring the whole family! Our whole family was entertained and excited” GMB – September 2020

The Ultimate Guide

| 23

24 |

The Ultimate Guide

Picnic Spots

GOVERNMENT GARDENS Right in downtown Rotorua, the tall arches on Queens Drive lead to beautifully manicured gardens. They provide plenty of space and lush green grass to lay out a picnic and you can stroll the grounds at your own pace when you are done. @gu0920

TARAWERA FALLS The view of the falls is why you're really here. Great for the day adventurers, set up your picnic and watch the water surging out of fissures in a large rock cliff-face. There's a 20 minute walk to get in, but an extended trail available. @rinskezijsling

L AKE OKATAINA Meaning 'the lake of laughter', this is a beautiful, remote picnic destination surrounded by native bush right to the water's edge. Take a dip and savour the peaceful escape.

The lake is northernmost and largest of four smaller lakes lying between Lake Rotorua and Lake Tarawera. @4ageed_garage

HAMURANA SPRINGS It's the deepest natural freshwater spring in New Zealand, famous for its crystalclear water and the peaceful, picturesque setting. Walk through a Redwood grove to the viewing platform and make a circuit via the footbridge.

ROTORUA L AKEFRONT This spot has something for everyone with its waterfront, playground, picnic spots (including BBQs and picnic tables), and water activities. At dusk, the lake vista provides an epic sunset. There's plenty to enjoy for the whole family!

The Ultimate Guide

A bright and lively cafe with cabinet food, specials board, and a breakfast and lunch menu that includes delicious temptations full of Boston Beans, and Thai Risotto.

With communal tables, extensive outdoor seating bathed in the summer sun and also taking out the ‘2016 Outstanding Cafe’ award, Lime provides a friendly atmosphere with good old fashioned table service!

LIME CAFFETERIA

Cnr Fenton & Whakaue Sts, Rotorua | P 07 350 2033 Open 7.30am to 4.30pm | 7 days a week

| 25

6

26 |

The Ultimate Guide

The Ultimate Guide

on holiday... feeling unwell? injured yourself?

Lakes PrimeCare is here to help.

We are a walk-in clinic, no appointment necessary.

| 27

SUNSHINE ON A PLATE Enjoy a healthy meal from our international menu while soaking up our sunny art school vibe.

OPEN EVERY DAY – 8am to 9pm Ph. (07) 348 1000 1165 Tutanekai Street, Rotorua

1145 TUTANEKAI STREET, ROTORUA. 07 343 7645

019 Winner 2017, 2018 & 2pitality Awards

Your after hours

s ‘Best Cafe’ Ho

All day menu Free parking Outdoor dining Award winning coffee Group bookings Kids play area Breakfast Lunch

ONE STOP SHOP

OPEN EVERY DAY

OF THE YEAR 8.30AM TILL

OPEN 7 DAYS

35 Lake Rd, Ohinemutu, Rotorua Phone 07 349 4852 Mon - Sun 7:30am - 3:00pm thirdplacecafe.nz email: thirdplacecafe@gmail.com

9.30PM

PRESCRIPTIONS,

FIRST AID AND ALL YOUR

MEDICAL NEEDS

ROTORUA MUD

AND NZ MADE

SKINCARE PRODUCTS

1155 Tutanekai St · Rotorua · www.lakescarepharmacy.com · Ph 07 348 4385

28 |

The Ultimate Guide

Bay of Plenty Full of sunshine and contrasting scenery, this is a destination that remains a long-standing holiday favourite.

F

be between 150,000 and 200,000 years old, it is 2km in diameter and its peak rises 321m above sea level. Below the surface, an abundance of marine life and remarkable visibility makes it one of New Zealand's best dive sites - and a fishing haven.

rom the bustling harbourside city of Tauranga, to the charming beachside villages of Whakatāne and Waihi, there really is plenty for everyone to see and do in this stunning part of New Zealand.

There's no doubt that the spectacular coastline - stretching 125km - is the region's draw card and best feature, with a wealth of white sandy beaches that can be enjoyed all year round, thanks to its pleasant climate. While the relaxing, beach-vibe is a magnet for locals and visitors alike, that doesn't mean there isn't something for the adventurer too.

Night kayaking, skydiving, game fishing,

camera Whakatāne District Council

camera Whakatāne District Council

glow worm canyons - the Coastal Bay of Plenty is the ultimate place where you can choose to do a little, or a lot.

The area is also blessed with many treasures. Whirinaki Te Pua-a-Tane Conservation Park is a forest of distinction, a treasure that contains the living children of Tane Mahuta, the Māori god of the forest. One of New Zealand's most remarkable and significant forests and a must-see biodiversity hotspot. Then look 49 kilometres offshore from Whakatāne and you'll see Whakaari (White Island) puffing away, an active marine volcano that has drawn visitors from around the world for decades. Estimated to

A scenic flight offers breath-taking views of this geothermal wonder, alternatively there are lookout points from the shore (Whakatāne Heads and Kohi Point) and Whakatāne i-SITE host the Whakaari/ White Island Experience Room.

Rich in history, culture, resources and experiences, this is a place that will deliver a smile at every turn.

camera Whakatāne District Council

The Ultimate Guide

Honey Sales & Gift Shop BeeNZ is working with nature and the environment to bring its customers the highest quality New Zealand honey.

85 Tetley Road, Katikati 3178 Open 8:30-4:30 Monday to Friday PHONE REPAIRS

REPAIRS+ACCESSORIES

Manufacturers of traditional and custom New Zealand greenstone and high end jewellery

For all mobile phone/ tablet repairs, batteries, cases or advice, come in and see us!

Most cracked phone screens repaired within 30 minutes!

ROTORUA CENTRAL MALL Kiosk 1, 1170 Amohau St, Rotorua TAURANGA CROSSING K22 2, Taurikura Dr, Tauriko, Tauranga

+64 7 220 8888 info@phonelife.co.nz www.phonelife.co.nz

OPEN 10 AM – LATE ROTORUA A: 1093 Tutanekai Street P: 07 348 6499 E: info@puawaijade.nz FB: puawai jade

MOUNT MAUNGANUI A: 195A Maunganui Road P: 07 572 1200 E: mount@puawaijade.nz FB: puawai jade mount maunganui

www.puawaijade.nz

| 29

30 |

The Ultimate Guide

Must see – Must do

MAUAO (MO U N T M AU N G AN U I) At 232 metres, the views from the top of 'The Mount' are spectacular and once you're up there, you'll realise why this is a must-do walk and attraction. The walk to the top of this famous landmark is approx. 40 minutes but it is steep with many steps so does require a good level of fitness. There are two scenic summit tracks to choose from, best to start from the ocean side boardwalk. If you're not up for the climb, there is an easier, 45 minute base track.

The Ultimate Guide

PAC I F I C OC EAN 125km of coastline means there's plenty of ocean to go with it. Head out on the water by boat, paddle board, or kayak. Meet the local marine wildlife, surf, fish or dive.

Some wildlife that call this part of the ocean and coastline home include penguins, seals, dolphins, whales, sunfish and orca. This is also the perfect spot for the ultimate fishing experience, from deep sea to in-shore. @chill.hut

KIWI NIGHT TRAILS Spot our beloved kiwi! Whakatāne Kiwi Trust provide guided night walks in Ōhope, typically April to June, with special events during school holidays. If out of season, you can enjoy a self-guided walk any time of the year by doing the Fairbrother Loop Walk in the Ōhope Scenic Reserve.

MOU TOHORĀ I S L AN D SANCTUARY

M C L ARE N FA L LS PAR K 190 hectares of parkland alongside Lake McLaren. Great for camping, kayaking, fishing, bush walks and picnics. It's an easy stroll to see McLaren Falls, and by dusk, you can spot glowworms on the track.

Moutohora (Whale Island) is a 143-hectare remnant volcano under protection of the Department of Conservation.

This incredible wildlife sanctuary, only accessible via guided tour, is definitely one of New Zealand's best kept secrets. It is home to a number of rare and endangered plants, birds and reptiles, and provides exceptional diving and snorkelling opportunities. @sohpieaelewis

| 31

32 |

The Ultimate Guide

Professional and unforgettable charter fishing experiences in Whakatane.

From day trips to overnighters, we’ll help you ‘get out there and do it!’ Aquarius Charters have the know-how and equipment to provide you with the right tips and tricks to bring aboard your catch. We supply the bait, tackle and any services such as filleting your fish!

Come aboard our 40 ft boat, with plenty of space to fish, cruise and relax.

Diving Day Trips Overnight to White Island aquariuschartersnz@gmail.com www.aquariuschartersnz.com 027 945 5305

The Ultimate Guide

Explore the road less travelled in Whakatāne Take the road less travelled and enjoy the hidden gems, people, and places of the Whakatāne District What’s your road?

whakatane.com whakatane.nz

| 33

34 |

The Ultimate Guide

Best Beaches

M OUN T M AUN GANU I It hasn't been voted one of the world's top 25 beaches for nothing! This stunning stretch of white sand at Main Beach is the perfect place for all types of water activities and sunbathing. It also helps that it has an epic surf break, suitable for beginners to the more experienced surfers.

WAIHI BEACH A little more low-key than it's Tauranga counterpart, Waihi Beach is like stepping back in time to a simpler life. Dotted with kiwi 'beach baches' the way they used to be, you won't want to miss a day in the sun here - where time seems to stand still for a while.

P U KEHINA If you prefer your beaches more remote, Pukehina is half-way between Tauranga and Whakatāne, and boasts an extremely laid-back vibe next to an estuary harbour. @janape_

ŌHO PE Voted New Zealand's most loved beach, just over the hill from Whakatāne.

Popular year-round with crystal clear water, rolling ocean waves and plenty of warm white sand, it's perfect for families who want to picnic and stay awhile.

Just down the road from the popular Mt Maunganui main beach, Papamoa has coastline that stretches as far as the eye can see.

@itsaorangi

@laurenvangent

PAPAM OA

The Ultimate Guide

| 35

Two minutes drive from Whakatane www.juliansberryfarm.co.nz

Open October to end of January

For a truly unforgettable experience of a lifetime, talk to us about any of our scenic White Island Flights, departing Whakatane daily!

Child ren ½ pric Unde e r 4s FREE

AN UNFORGETTABLE ENCOUNTER AWAITS YOU With a story, a house and a people. Where powerful story tellers and world class digital technology combine to leave a warm and lasting impression of this captivating New Zealand experience.

Arrive a stranger, leave a friend with unforgettable memories of the house, the people and the land of NgÄ ti Awa and Mataatua.

www.mataatua.com

info@mataatua.com

07 308 4271

Children are half price. Under 4 are free. Contact us for group discounts.

Grab a gift voucher for family or friends, or book your very own White Island Flight journey today, and see a view of the island that can only be seen from above!

BOOK NOW! 0800 944 834 www.whiteislandflights.co.nz