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Whakatane
Whakatane is sometimes known as the birthplace of Aotearoa (Land of
the Long White Cloud). It was here that the great Polynesian
navigator Toi te Huatahi first landed. The remains of his pa, on the
highest point of the Whakatane Heads, is now the site of the Wairaka
Marae. Two centuries later, another great Polynesian canoe, Mataatua, landed
here bringing with it the kumara plant. This was to become the staple
diet of the Maori throughout New Zealand, and today is a popular
vegetable.
With magnificant beaches and bays, Whakatane, enjoys a reputation as
one of the three sunniest spots in the country. Many of the activities
for the vistors centre on the water. Yet the town also gives ready
access to other unique attractions in the area. From Whakatane,
visitors can take a scenic flight over the ever active volcano White
Island, or experience the haunting beauty of the Urewera National
Park, the largest protected native forest in the North Island.
Whakatane also boasts lucrative and accessible fishing grounds.
For more information contact:
Whakatane Information Ctr., P.O. Box 307,
Whakatane, New Zealand
Toll Free in NZ: 0800-500-447
Phone: (64) 7 308-6058 (24 hours)
Fax: (64) 7 307-0718
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