Riverside Parks
River Edge Park
A rich and diverse riverside park, offering walking tracks, a skatepark and the Ocean Playground. River Edge Park also hosts the Riverside Amphitheatre and a model railway that opens periodically in the school holidays.
Otuawhaki and The Promenade
Originally part of the first waterfront development of the town in the earliest European settlement era, this is a strip of riverbank extending from the main wharf at its eastern end, to the Yacht Club at the western end.
The Whakatane Visitor Information Centre is situated in a prime position overlooking both the river and the main business area. The Promenade is lined with seats and picnic tables that are popular with both locals and visitors. The Promenade also provides direct access to the Otuawhaki Wharf.
Wairaka Park
This park, from the main boat ramp to opposite the signal station, was officially opened in 1940 as the District's celebration of the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi. Its full name is the Wairaka Centennial Memorial Park.
The central area of the park is a family area that many enjoy. It has a grassed area with seats and pohutukawa trees, and a small beach and swimming area separated from the main river by a rock wall. You can sit and relax in the sun, enjoying the views of Kohi Point, the Piripai Spit, Whale Island and the Whakatane River.
The activities of the fishing and sightseeing boats travelling in and out over the Whakatane bar make enjoyable watching and at night the lights of Whakatane are reflected on the water.