Exploring Whakatāne Harbour
Whakatāne Harbour is located near the mouth of the Whakatāne River in the Bay of Plenty, northeast of the Whakatāne town centre. The cliffs and forested hills of the Whakatāne Heads frame the harbour. A notable feature at the harbour entrance is the statue of Wairaka, a famous Māori heroine, perched atop Turuturu Roimata. This area is rich in cultural and natural attractions, making it a compelling destination.
Key Attractions and Activities
The harbour area includes a small commercial port, a marina, and a boat ramp. Walking east from the main port, Mataatua Reserve houses the modern-day waka Mataatua. Continuing eastward, you will find Wairaka Centennial Park. This park features a large platform for jumping into the river and a small beach shielded by a rock breakwater. However, swimming further into the river is unsafe due to frequent boat traffic.
From the harbour, you can also take a boat trip to Moutohorā Island (Whale Island), a sanctuary managed by the Department of Conservation. The island, standing 353 metres high, is located opposite Coastlands.
Historical and Cultural Significance
Whakatane is particularly strong in revealing its Māori heritage. It is directly associated with the arrival of the original seagoing waka, Mataatua, in the region in the 1300s.
As you walk from the town past Mataatua Reserve, you will spot Te Ana o Muriwai (Muriwai’s Cave) across the road. This is one of three historically significant sites that Toroa, the captain of the Mataatua, was instructed to find by his father, Irakewa, when he arrived around 750 years ago. The other landmarks are Te Wairere (Wairere Falls) and Te Toka o Irakewa (Irakewa Rock).
Muriwai, Toroa's sister, was renowned for her wisdom and foresight. After arriving in the area, she initially settled in Ōhiwa Harbour, east of Whakatāne, before moving to Ōpōtiki, where she founded the Whakatōhea iwi. Eventually, she returned to Whakatāne and lived in the cave. The tapu on her death was not lifted until 1963. The cave was once large enough to hold 60 people and extended 122 metres into the hillside, but is now much smaller.
Nearby, you will also find a large rock with plaques commemorating the park's establishment 100 years after the Treaty of Waitangi and the landing of the Mataatua, captained by Toroa, in 1340.
How to Get There
To reach Whakatāne Harbour, head northeast from the town centre on The Strand, which becomes Muriwai Drive. The road ends at Te Hau Tutua Park, a large grassed reserve opposite the statue of Wairaka.
From the town centre, you can also hike Nga Tapuwae o Toi up to Kaputerangi Lookout and Kohi Point Reserve on the Whakatāne Heads, with superb views and several historical pā sites. North of the point is beautiful Ōhope Beach.
