April 19, 2013
While it’s by the ocean, Whakatane is laid out along a river and feels like a river town. What’s most distinct about it, though, are the cliffs that run right alongside the main street. These rocky hillsides give the town its very unique and beautiful look.
Our first stop in Whakatane was the Coffee Roastery Cafe, where we had some of the best coffee we’ve had in New Zealand. After that we walked up the Strand, the town’s charming main street, before heading over to the river to stroll back along the river walk.
Looking at the boats in the estuary, we wondered if was deep enough to come here on Legacy. We decided it wouldn’t be practical as Whakatane’s so far away from everything, but it’s also so pretty we couldn’t help but consider the possibility.
After our river walk, we went to find the town’s waterfall. As waterfalls go it won’t win any awards–I think the long, dry summer has left it a little feeble, but it’s still very pretty.–Cyndi
