Top Spots to explore nature in BOP in New Zealand

"Moutohorā Island, also known as Whale Island is a small volcanic cone sitting of the coast of Whakatane and Ohope. It is a wildlife refuge, free of introduced pests and managed by the Department of Conservation so there’s restricted access. Slowly the island is being replanted with natives and a significant bird breeding colony with many threatened and endangered birds thriving. You can access the island through a commercial tour. Often the short boat trip is often accompanied by dolphins and there may be an opportunity to swim in the warm thermal waters at Sulphur Bay. It is a beautiful place with magnificent bird song where you can see New Zealand as it once was."

"With such a beautiful coastline getting out on the water is a must to see the abundant marine life. There are commercial operators who do dolphin tours, where you ‘re highly likely to come across wild dolphins and very likely to bump into orcas, whales, turtles and seals and much more. Getting out on the water is the only way to experience the natural wonder of the area."

"The Kamai Ranges form a natural backdrop to the Bay and host a number of walking and tramping tracks, some connected with overnight huts, suitable for more experienced trampers only. A lot of them associated with historic mining and logging sites. There are many short to medium walks through the bush clad valleys and hills to wonderful rivers and waterfalls. The walks around Aongatete near Katitkati are easy to get to."