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whakatane
 Where
can you stand on an active volcano, swim with dolphins and catch
a marlin, all in one place? Offshore from Whakatane, in the Bay
of Plenty.
It’s strange but true. The warm waters of the Bay are a rich
natural resource. New Zealand’s only active marine volcano,
White Island is surrounded by big game fishing grounds. Captain
Cook named the Island for its billowing plumes of white ash.
White Island is voted the most exciting trip by visitors to
Whakatane. It’s a mind-blowing experience to walk on a live
volcano with lunar landscapes. You have a choice of helicopter or
boat trips. Registered guides escort you around the island and
provide an interesting commentary. The seabirds are not phased by
the fire and brimstone around the crater and the island teems
with bird life.
Whakatane, on the Pacific Coast Highway tourist route from
Auckland, is one of the sunniest places in the country. The
locals call it the ‘Big Little Town’, that is a town
small in numbers but big in attitude. The town’s main
activity focus is eco-tours and blue-water adventures. Charter
and cruise boats leave daily for recreational fishing, diving,
game fishing, volcano watching and swimming with dolphins.
Activities on land are not overlooked in this progressive town.
There is the interesting Town Centre Walk and also the Footsteps
of Toi, which lead to a lookout with panoramic views.
Whakatane’s shopping facilities are excellent and the
visitor centre, Museum and Gallery in Boon Street are well worth
a visit.
Trout fishing is popular on many local rivers. Jet boating and
white water rafting trips take on the mighty Motu as well as
several other rivers with plunging gorges and exciting rapids.
Rock climbing, tramping, mountain biking and sea kayaking are on
tap, with or without guides.
Ohope Beach is a lively place along the coast, with casual
resort-style eateries and bars. It is one of New Zealand's
premier swimming and surfing locations. This is not surprising as
the eastern Bay of Plenty has one of the most benign climates in
New Zealand.
Whakatane is a ‘Big Little Town’ which is jam-packed
with new experiences.
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