Whakatane and Ohiwa Harbour Virtually on Track Gem is a sparkling landscape of ocean and harbour, dense with sporting opportunity from foot to cycling and paddling, cradled by the headlands of Whakatane to the west and Onekawa to the east.
Nga Tapuwae o Toi Walkways - Nga Tapuwae oToi, or the "Footprints of Toi", is a 16km looped coastal and bush walkway named after one of Whakatane's earliest settlers - a chief who arrived here by waka 1000 or so years ago. His descendants settled over much of the North Island's east coast and the walkway passes through some of the best scenery this slice of New Zealand's east coast has to offer.
There are historically significant pa sites, native forest and stunning coastal and rural views, and birds chirp merrily overhead, keeping walkers (or runners) company. Three scenic reserves make up the walkway - Kohi Point, Ohope and Mokoroa - and these are three of the best walks in Whakatane. Walk the entire 16km (allow 5-7 hours) or break it down into sections if you're not used to walking - the choice is yours.
A highlight along the way is Toi's stronghold of Kapu-te-rangi which is one of the oldest pa sites in New Zealand, while along the majority of its route the track passes through areas in which kiwi flourish under the care of the Whakatane Kiwi Trust. Don't miss taking a breather at the site of Kapu-te-rangi, Toi's hilltop stronghold, to catch the incredible panorama stretching from the volcanic peaks of Whaakari (White Island) to Mt Tarawera - over 100km apart.
If you are feeling adventurous, one of Whakatāne's iconic annual events is the Julian's Berry Farm & Café Tois Challenge (22 November 2015). This is a multi-terrain 18km loop on the beautiful coastal Nga Tapuwae o Toi track. It starts with 1 km of road, then trails over hills and along cliff edges to secluded Otarawairere Bay. A short run along picturesque Ōhope Beach is followed by more hills through stunning bush back to the township.
• Fun run relay costs $50 (late entry on the day will cost $70). • Fun walk relay costs $25 Starts at Rex Morpeth Park, Whakatane at 9 am
