Whakatane is a beautiful coastal town located in the Bay of Plenty on the east coast of the North Island. The site of the town has long been populated. The Maori Pa sites in the area date back to the first Polynesian settlements, estimated around 1200 CE. Maori tradition suggests it was even earlier.
Whakatane has one of the countries warmest climates with relatively mild winters and long hot summers. It is a popular holiday destination boasting some of the finest saltwater fishingin New Zealand with large numbers of tuna caught in the warmer months. If fishing does not appeal to you then perhaps a trip to see dolphins at play just off the coast is to your liking. The dolphin experience is becoming extremely popular in Whakatane with all ages and is available all year round. There are also many land based activities for those who prefer it or when the sea is too rough. Bush walks, horse treks, 4x4 tours, hunting trips, helicopter flights and more or simply relax for a while on beautiful Ohope Beach.If golf is your passion, there is an excellent course just past Ohope and there are four other golf courses all within 40 minutes drive. Besides all this, Whakatane offers great shopping, restaurants and a cinema too.
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