EXPLORING THE EASTERN BAY OF PLENTY
KAYAK MOUTOHORĀ/WHALE ISLAND
Wherever you are in the coastal eastern Bay of Plenty, you’re never far from a view of Moutohorā/Whale Island, an important wildlife reserve that sits 9km offshore from Whakatāne. The distinctive hump always looks postcard-pretty from the mainland, but it’s even better up close, thriving with bird and marine life. White Island Tours offer boat trips to Moutohorā. You land on the island then take a guided walk to hear its story and see rare birds like tīeke (saddlebacks). KG Kayaks also offer trips to Moutohorā; you sail out on a catamaran then get to paddle beside the island on stable sit-on kayaks, spotting marine life such as seals, and landing on a hot-water beach.
EXPERIENCES + ACTIVITIES
RIDE THE DUNES TRAIL SECTION OF MOTU TRAILS
The Motu Trails () is an attraction that has become a highlight for visitors to the eastern Bay of Plenty/Tairāwhiti regions. There are a range of levels to choose from, with Ōpōtiki’s Dunes Trail at the easy end. Even so, the popular 9km coastal trail rises and falls almost all the way, so by the time you’ve biked out and back, or even just halfway, you’ve earned that coffee or) and Motu Trails Hire & Shuttle (). A recommended option is Mighty Motu Bike Tours (), offering a three-hour guided ride.
