Hiking

Hiking trails. The native forest reserves around Whakatane provide a range of bushwalks and hiking trails. The 6-km (4-mile) walkway called Nga Tapuwae o Toi ("the footprints of Toi") is named for a descendant of Tiwakawaka, one of the first Māori to settle in New Zealand. In total it takes about four hours, it's also divided into eight shorter walks that take you past historic pā (fortified village) sites, along the coastline and the Whakatane River, around Kohi Point (which separates Whakatane from Ohope), and through the Ohope and Makaroa Bush Scenic Reserves. These shorter sections range from one to three hours. No guide is necessary, and most tourist operators and the i-SITE visitor information center in Whakatane stocks free trail maps. The main trailhead starts from Canning Place, behind the Whakatane Hotel on the corner of George Street and the Strand. Follow the steps up the cliff and you'll be at the beginning of the trail. For an easier wander (30 minutes round-trip), start at the west end of Ohope Beach and head over to Otarawairere, a delightful secluded cove. Some trail crossings depend on the tidal schedule, so be sure to check low-tide times or you might end up swimming across! Canning Pl., Whakatane,

Whale Island Tours. Cruise to and walk on this special island wildlife reserve, home of endangered species such as kiwi, saddleback, parakeet, and tuatara. Your skipper, Phil van Dusschoten, has been a stalwart of the restoration program on Moutohora (Whale Island), just off shore of Whakatane, for 25 years. Let him share his knowledge as he guides you over the gentle island trails. You'll need to check your bags first, to ensure you're not carrying any sneaky, egg-eating pests, such as rats or mice. Tours usually leave at 1 pm and return at 5 pm, check when booking (which is essential). 96 The Strand, Whakatane, Bay of Plenty, 3020. 0800/354--7737; www.whaleislandtours.com. NZ$120.

Awakeri Hot Springs. After a hard day at the beach, or walking the local trails, there’s nothing better than a soak in the hot-spring–fed swimming pool and hot tubs at Awakeri, just 15 minutes’ drive from Whakatane on the highway to Rotorua. The main pool is partially covered by a large awning, there are two smaller pools for children and toddlers, and, if you want privacy, you can book a private spa. A steaming stream runs through the property, and the forested grounds host an ongoing chorus of birdsong. There’s also basic accommodation, camping and campervan sites here. 1363 State Hwy. 30, Awakeri, Whakatane, Bay of Plenty, 3192. 07/304--9117; www.awakerihotsprings.co.nz. NZ$7.50. Daily 8 am--9:30 pm.