Whakatāne, Ōhope and surrounding coastal areas have a number of ramps, jetties, wharves, navigational equipment and other harbour facilities for public use. While Bay of Plenty Regional Council is responsible for navigation and safety within the Bay of Plenty region, Whakatāne District Council provides and maintains facilities for public and private use.
The Whakatāne Harbour is situated at the northern end of the Whakatāne River, adjacent to the township of Whakatāne near the river mouth. The harbour has provided a safe haven for vessels since the arrival of the Mataatua canoe, and today it is home to many recreational and commercial marine activities.
The Ohiwa Harbour lies between Whakatāne and Ōpōtiki, covering an area of around 26 square kilometres. The harbour contains a number of islands and is a significant natural, cultural and recreational resource. Its entrance is located at the eastern end of the Ōhope spit.
The Rangitāiki River is the longest river in the Bay of Plenty. Its mouth is located at Thornton, west of Whakatāne. The Thornton area is a popular recreational fishing and boating spot. For information on the bars in the Whakatāne area, contact the Whakatāne Coastguard on 07 308 6477.
Harbour Activities
Whakatāne has a wide range of family and recreational activities on, in and around the District. For a complete list of what you can do, from fishing to swimming with the dolphins, visit whakatane.com.
Facility Locations
| Site Name | Location | Facilities |
|---|---|---|
Whakatāne Harbour | ||
Main Commercial Wharf | Muriwai Drive, Whakatāne | Wharves, commercial berths, moorings, dinghy ramp. |
| Game Wharf | Muriwai Drive, Whakatāne | Boat ramps, jetties, wharves, car and trailer parking, vessel hardstand, swimming pontoon, information signage. |
| Green Wharf / Otuawhaki | Kakahoroa Drive, Whakatāne | Wharves, jetties. |
| Rangitaiki River | ||
| Thornton | Thornton Beach Road | Boat ramps, jetties, waka ramp, car and trailer parking. |
| Ohiwa Harbour | ||
| Port Ōhope | Harbour Road, Ōhope | Wharves, jetties, car parking, moorings. |
| Ohiwa | Harbour Road, Ōhope | Boat ramp, car & trailer parking. |
Harbourmaster (Bay of Plenty Regional Council)
The Harbourmaster is employed by Bay of Plenty Regional Council and is responsible for safety in the Eastern Bay of Plenty.
Rules and Guidelines
The rules and guidelines to use of the harbours and its facilities in the district are laid out in the Ports and Wharves Bylaw Policy - Section 14.
There are also Regional by-laws and Regional statutory requirements that are maintained and enforced by Bay of Plenty Regional Council.
Berthage
Visitors mooring rental - this is available at cost of $100 per week or part thereof. Must be booked in advance by phoning 07 306 0500.
Long term berthage is very limited. Contact the Whakatāne District Council on 07 306 0500 to enquire about availability.
Vessels must be registered to be eligible for berths.
Berthage Fees
These fees are current as at 1 July 2017. Please contact the Council on 07 306 0500 for up-to-date costs, or see Fees and Charges - Section 14.
| Item | Fee |
|---|---|
Uniform annual fee for vessels up to 10 metres and first 10 metres of all vessels | $4250.00 |
| Excess of 10 metres - charged per metre of length/annum for length in excess of 10 metres | $348.00 |
| Discount for multiple berths | 15% |
Fees must be paid at the time of application.
Hardstand
A hardstand is available - cost is $55 per night for a maximum of 10 nights, with an $85/day penalty rate applying after 10 days. Must be booked in advance. Please contact the Council on 07 306 0500.
Lost, in danger or dead wildlife
If you discover any sea life such as seals, penguins, sick/injured birds, or mammals along any of the Whakatāne controlled ports, harbours or coastlines, please contact the Department of Conservation on 0800 362 468.
If you discover dead mammals, birds or fish, call the Bay of Plenty Regional Council Pollution Hotline 24/7 - 0800 884 883.