Exploring Whakatane on foot

To get the most from any holiday there's nothing like leaving powered transport behind and stepping out for a good walk, capturing the feeling of the land.

The Nga Tapuwae O Toi walk includes four major reserves - Kohi Pt, Ohope, Mokorua and ka-pu-Terangi.

The best point for starting the 16km round trip (seven hours) is at the bottom of Mokorua Gorge, next to the exit from Mokorua scenic reserve.

The walkway will take you to sites of historic interest, native forests and pohutukawas. You'll enjoy coastal and rural views, as well as seabird colonies and forest birds.

There are information boards along the way, on which you can read about the district's heritage, and there are places to rest.

If you're looking for a short walk, head for the Waimana Valley Rd, south of Waimana. The Ngutuoha Short Walk and Nature Trail both start near Te Urewera Education Lodge, and the Te Pona a Pita Track can be accessed from near Tauwhare, about 4km north of Te Urewera Education Lodge.

Whakatane District Council has a 20-page guide called Walks around the Whakatane area available from most tourist information outlets. Whakatane's tourism information line is 0800 478 674.

Whakatane Visitor Information