Picture a secluded beach made from crushed seashells that you can only get to on foot or by kayak.
You can reach the picture-perfect Ōtarawairere Beach, in between Whakatāne and Ōhope from the Kohi Point Track, part of Whakatāne’s Ngā Tapuwae o Toi Trail – an easy family-friendly walk with wonderful coastal views.
Alternatively, you can get to Ōtarawairere on a 15-minute walk from West End in Ōhope.
Once there, you can settle in under the ancient pōhutukawa trees for a picnic, fossick in the rock pools, swim or snorkel in the summer months and see if you can find the hidden waterfall.
The western end of Ōtarawairere is not accessible during high tide, so check the tide tables before you set off to this slice of coastal paradise.