THE WAIHAU BAY AREA
If you are looking for a beautiful unspoiled beachfront holiday destination, Waihau Bay in the Eastern Bay of Plenty, East Cape Region, New Zealand is an excellent choice.
Well known as one of New Zealand's premier fishing locations, there is so much more...
The East Cape is a remote area, with beautiful coastal scenery, rocky foreshores, driftwood strewn beaches as well as safe sandy swimming beaches.
Largely untouched by development, there are no high-rise or fast food outlets here - simply pristine ocean, clean rivers, back country beef and sheep stations, clear waterfalls, a region steeped in history.
It is a haven for those seeking peace, rest and relaxation as well as a playground for active adventurers, and a fisherman's dream.
The temperate climate make it a perfect year round holiday destination.
ESSENTIALS
Waihau Bay Lodge
5 kms along the bay, this fascinating historic building (seen in the classic New Zealand movie Boy) serves breakfast and dinner. We recommend their steak and mushrooms, or perhaps try a fisherman’s basket - fish burgers also great value.
Store and Fuel
Right alongside the Lodge are both the Waihau Bay Store and fuel pumps. Here again – a great place for an ice cream, basic grocery items, coffee and takeaways.
Boat ramp
In front of Waihau Bay Lodge 5kms back around the Bay is the three lane concrete all tide boat ramp.
Fishing
East Cape Fishing is renowned for the mighty kingfish, marlin and tuna in season, Bay of Plenty fishing for snapper, hapuku, and terakihi. Try snorkeling to enjoy the regions underwater scenery and abundance of shellfish and crayfish.
Water temperatures in the summer reach between 20 and 23 degrees and at that time, big game fish are plentiful in the area. These include striped, blue and black marlin, yellowfin, albacore and skipjack tuna.
Check out our fishing page for more information on sea life.
GB's Barn - catering
Nicola and Bill do some of the most fabulous food on the coast-don't miss your opportunity to experience it while you are here. Catering for groups of 2 to many - seating for 40, tailor-made menus, private dining location... well worth making the most of, if you are looking for something a bit special. Call Nicola or Bill 073253787 or 0224245592. Advance booking required.
On your way here...or when you have to leave....
Give your selves a fabulous treat and make sure you plan a stop at the Moxi Cafe, on the main road through Ohope - definitely not to be missed! Along with the excellent fresh generous and tasty food, coffee made with care and expertise, the general atmosphere and creativity make it a well worth while break - 1 hour 50 minutes from Oceanside itself.
The East Cape
If you are thinking of touring the East Cape, we are perfectly situated for a two night stop so you can make the most of all the historical and cultural sites in the area. A 15 minute drive will take you to the famous fishing and diving areas of Lottin Point, twenty minutes more on to Hicks Bay and the site of the old Hicks Bay wharf, port and old freezing works buildings, and then onto Te Araroa. Te Araroa is approximately 45 minutes from Waihau Bay, the East Cape Lighthouse about 30 minutes further. Continuing onwards takes you through Te Puia Springs to one of our favourites towards Gisborne - Tokomaru Bay. Make sure you check out the Toi Gift Shop along towards Te PukaTavern, gorgeous hand made New Zealand products and art work- Nahana Honey from New Zealand's manuka also.
Just 5 minutes drive west of Oceanside is the beautiful Raukokore Church, one of the most photographed places of the East Cape.
SCENIC JOURNEY - FABULOUS DESTINATION
The picturesque drive, of one and a half hours from Opotiki, takes you along the beautiful coastal road of State highway 35, winding past driftwood strewn bays, rocky foreshore, bush clad hillsides, and unspoiled beaches. When you reach Oceanside, relax in the comfort of your own apartment, soak up the views, cross the road to our open stretch of sandy beach or head out onto the water.
Fishing, walking, kayaking, swimming, exploring, relaxing – Oceanside.
Make the most of this discovery – Come and enjoy one of the best kept secrets of New Zealand’s East Coast .
A wee bit off the beaten track – but absolutely worth it!