One of New Zealand’s top features is the many thousands of miles of undeveloped coastline. There is really no other country that can boast the sheer coastal majesty of this island. Anybody on a campervan hire new zealand journey will no doubt wish to explore this coastline no matter which section of the country they may be traveling in. One place to definitely check out during your coastal journeys is Whakatene. This town of 15,000 is what the New Zealand coast is really all about with its laid back vibes, unbelievable water views, and dozens of different water activities. Whakatane has been attracting travelers, backpackers, and campervan drivers for decades, and you will see why from the moment you arrive in this beautiful and lively coastal town.
Whakatane River
This town is located at the mouth of the Whakatane River that gives it his name. Here you will be able to participate in some unbelievable rafting opportunities. There are tours available where you can go out with a guide, and for experienced rafters you can head out on the water on your own. This is some of the best rafting to be found in New Zealand and you won’t have to venture to far into the wilderness to find it. This is also a fishing hotspot, so for those who’ve packed their gear you will be in for a treat along the Whakatane.
Downtown Business District
Whakatane is a laid back and unique town, and there is no better place to experience it than the downtown business district. Here you will find a variety of shops that run the gamut from worldwide chains to local boutiques, not to mention a wide range of restaurants that cater to nearly all tastes. The people watching here is great, and you will get to meet locals who are known to be friendly. You will most likely also run into quite a few fellow travelers and can share tips about the area. Even if you just wanted to grab a drink and sit and relax in the sunny atmosphere, the business district is definitely the place for you.
The Heads
The Pacific Ocean runs right up against the edge of Whakatane, making this the ultimate beach town. If you’re a surfer then you should grab your board and roll straight to what is known as The Heads. This series of coastal spots is known as one of the top surfing spots in the world, featuring massive waves and the famous tubes that attract surfers from all over the world. Even if you aren’t into surfing, you can simply enjoy a fine beach day in this subtropical paradise. Some other beaches in the region that you will want to check out are Ohope Beach and Ohiwa Harbour. These are great spots to take a break from your campervan hire new zealand trip and enjoy some relaxing time in the sun. You can also get out on the water for some big game fishing if you’re after some adventure, as there are many tours available in the area.
Hiking
As with most coastal regions in New Zealand, there are some incredible hiking trails in the Whakatane region. The terrain surrounding this town is absolutely stunning. One definite recommendation is the Nga Tapuwai o Toi track which runs right from the center of town and moves out into the scenic expanse of Ohope Beach. This is a great hike and will give you a nice experience of all the different types of terrain in the region. You can sign up for a hiking tour where you will be led by an expert. This is great since your guide will be able to teach you about the history of the area and lead you to the best overlooks and secret coves only known to locals. There are a wide variety of coves that are known only to locals and are hard to find, so taking a guided tour is a great way to experience them. Of course you can always set out on your own as well and experience the beauty of this region for yourself. Whatever the case, it is highly recommended that everyone visiting Whakatane gets out on the trails to experience what this region has to offer.
For those on a campervan hire new zealand trip looking to experience the perfect coastal adventure, then you will definitely want to put Whakatane on the top of your list. This beautiful and laid back town is an inviting place for travelers featuring many things to do and places to see. The climate in Whakatane is warm all year round and the town is literally surrounded by water, with the Whakatane river on one side and the Pacific Ocean on the other. This makes Whakatane the perfect New Zealand beach town.
