Things To Do In Opotiki

Opotiki is situated on a harbour inlet formed by the junction of two rivers. Opotiki is 150 km to Tauranga and 140 km to Rotorua and is the gateway to Eastland with a wild rugged coastline. The Opotiki district has a diverse landscape, with rugged coastal vistas, stunning beaches, secluded valleys and beautiful crystal clear mountain streams. Opotiki sits close to the sparkling Pacific Ocean coast for world-class fishing and diving, and also the bush-clad Raukumura mountain range where you can experience hiking and a wealth of other activities. The pretty Waioeka and Otara rivers pass right through town and are frequently paddled by kayakers. 

Best Attractions and free things to do in Opotiki

1. Waiotahe Beach

Surfers seeking for new waves should head to Waiotahe Beach, which is located near to the Island View Holiday Park where you can also hang out. From the end of November through the end of February, the surf club conducts beach patrols where you may be able to pick up some new skills!

2. Fishing

With beaches excellent for surfcasting and close access to local rivers overflowing with rainbow and brown trout, fishing is a huge business in Opotiki. Opotiki Wharf Street is a suitable boat launching location for boaters, while Opepe, about 18km from Opotiki, is also an option. There are several local fishing excursions and guides to choose from. Visit the fishing charters available on SeeAndDo.co.nz!

3. Opotiki Golf Club

That's right, even in Opotiki, you can get a great day of golf in! The Opotiki Golf Course, located on the western outskirts of town, is a par-70 course with reasonable green fees for tourists. The track is enjoyable for people of all levels and has views of the ocean and town.

4. Heritage Buildings in the Town Center

You may learn more about Opotiki's Maori and European history by just strolling around the town. Heritage structures such as the Hiona St Stephens Anglican Church and the renowned pouwhenua in the heart of town are worth seeing. There are also explanation panels located around the town that explain the area's history.

5. Opotiki Museum

Every New Zealand town has a museum to capture its rich history, and Opotiki's magnificent Museum is one to stand for all. The Opotiki Museum, housed in an ancient bus station, features exhibits on two floors, including relics from the town's history on the ground floor and Maori treasures on the first.

6. Tauranga Bridge Loop Track

The Tauranga Bridge, located at the start of the Waioeka Gorge, is one of New Zealand's remaining harp-strung suspension bridges. From the roadside parking lot, it's only a 5-minute walk to the bridge. If you're not feeling up for that, take a 2-hour circular trail starting at the bridge for a relaxing river and woodland walk. There are a handful of stream crossings, and the walk is not recommended if it has been raining heavily.

7. Hukutaia Domain

This 4.5-hectare area on the fringes of Opotiki is home to hundreds of New Zealand trees and ferns. Take a look at ancient Puriri, powerful Tawa, and the Taketakerau, aka The Burial Tree. The Burial Tree, which is said to be over 2,000 years old, was previously used to hold the bones of the deceased. The tree is now an amazing feature of the domain that can be seen on many of the short treks.

8. McLaren Falls Park

When you ask the locals about things to do in Tauranga, they will recommend McLaren Falls Park. McLaren Falls Park is a 20-minute drive from Tauranga. Walking through the many sections of native and exotic trees, through the extremely reflecting Lake McLaren, and marveling at the McLaren Falls at the park's entrance may take up a whole day. The 10-minute waterfall trail to the unidentified waterfall is highly recommended!

9. Motu Trails

The Motu Routes are three fantastic cycling trails that can be undertaken independently or looped together and are something you have to add to your bucket list in Opotiki! The Dunes Walk is a 10-kilometer easy trail that runs besides Hukuwai Beach. The Motu Road Path is a 78-kilometer intermediate trail that takes you deep into the heart of the Bay of Plenty, and the Pakihi Track is a 44-kilometer difficult track that winds through New Zealand's beautiful woodland and wilderness.

10. Rotorua

Wherever you are staying in the bay of plenty, it's always worth taking a day trip to Rotorua. With so many wonderful things to do it would be a missed opportunity not to take the drive. From Volcano hikes to mud spas, there's something for everyone!