Transport
Travel by car
Whakatane is less than 100km from Rotorua and Tauranga and less than four hours drive from Auckland and Hawke’s Bay. Two and half hours from Gisborne, Hamilton and Taupo. Whakatane is the half-way point on the scenic Pacific Coast Highway, which starts in Auckland and finishes in Hawke’s Bay.
Travel by air
There are five direct daily flights between Whakatane and Auckland, the journey takes 45 minutes. Direct flights to Wellington operate Monday to Friday, and a Sunday evening flight. Taxis and shuttles are available to get you to and from the airport.
Travel by bus
Intercity Coachlines covers the length and breadth of New Zealand and offers a daily service in and out of Whakatane. Bay Bus operates a regular service between Whakatane, Ohope, Kawerau, Opotiki and Tauranga. Fares are subsidised by Environment Bay of Plenty so they are very affordable.
Naked Bus also provide services between Eastern Bay of Plenty and Tauranga.
Travel by rental car or campervan
At least three rental car and campervan companies are based in Whakatane.
Find out more
Find out more about getting here and getting around on whakatane.com