Kohi Point Scenic Reserve
Discover breathtaking coastal vistas and rich Maori heritage at Kohi Point Scenic Reserve, a protected kiwi sanctuary.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden light, fewer crowds
Kohi Point Scenic Reserve
Best Time
Golden light, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover breathtaking coastal vistas and rich Maori heritage at Kohi Point Scenic Reserve, a protected kiwi sanctuary.
"Well worth the drive up the hill for the view. Stunning walk with amazing views!"
Pack Water & Snacks
Bring plenty of water and snacks for your hike, as facilities are limited. :water_buffalo:
Check Tide Times
Crucial for accessing Otarawairere Bay. Allow 2 hours either side of high tide. :ocean:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sweeping Ocean Vistas
Panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and surrounding coastline. Perfect for photography and quiet contemplation.
Otarawairere Bay Access
A secluded, shell-strewn beach accessible via a scenic, albeit steep, track. Ideal for a peaceful escape.
Historic Maori Statues
Discover culturally significant Maori carvings that add a layer of history to the natural beauty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trek Smart: Trails & Tides
Kiwi Conservation Zone
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Found this photo on Twitter, where could it be?
Pack Water & Snacks
Bring plenty of water and snacks for your hike, as facilities are limited. :water_buffalo:
Check Tide Times
Crucial for accessing Otarawairere Bay. Allow 2 hours either side of high tide. :ocean:
Camera Ready!
The views are stunning, so don't forget your camera to capture the scenery. :camerawithflash:
No Dogs Allowed
This is a kiwi preserve, so leave your furry friends at home. :dog:
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack Water & Snacks
Bring plenty of water and snacks for your hike, as facilities are limited. :water_buffalo:
Check Tide Times
Crucial for accessing Otarawairere Bay. Allow 2 hours either side of high tide. :ocean:
Camera Ready!
The views are stunning, so don't forget your camera to capture the scenery. :camerawithflash:
No Dogs Allowed
This is a kiwi preserve, so leave your furry friends at home. :dog:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning, sweeping ocean views and the beautiful nature encountered on the walks. The connection to Maori culture through historic statues is also a highlight. Some find the trails steep and note the importance of checking tide times for bay access.
"Well worth the drive up the hill for the view. Hiking trails take you through the bush but are not loops so out and back. No dogs this is a kiwi preserve."
David Adair
"Stunning walk from Whakatane to Kohi Point and on around to Otarawairere. The walk starts out steepish, but then opens up to amazing views and a reasonably even ridgetop walk, then drops down into Otarawairere Bay. There's plenty of trees and cover, but still some exposed areas.
From Otarawairere you have a couple of options of getting back to Whakatane - just note that high tide time and allow 2hrs each side of it, otherwise it's impassable.
You can access Otarawairere Bay from Ohope, and it is worth the walk as it's a much nicer beach (shells, rather than sandy), and much less populated. Just note that there is a steepish section, so probably not for anyone unsteady on their feet."
Helen Green
"Beautiful walk take your camera and plenty of water. Note two hours either side of high tide you may get wet feet. A two hour walk but plenty of places to stop and admire the beauty"
Ross Newman
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The reserve is accessible by car from Whakatane. A scenic walk also connects Whakatane to Kohi Point and continues to Otarawairere Bay. The walk starts steep but offers incredible views.
Yes, there is parking available at the reserve, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
Absolutely! A beautiful walk connects Whakatane to Kohi Point, offering stunning coastal scenery along the way.
Otarawairere Bay can be accessed from Kohi Point via a steep track, or from Ohope. Be mindful of tide times for safe passage.
While direct public transport to the reserve might be limited, you can likely reach Whakatane by bus and then arrange local transport or enjoy the walk from town.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Kohi Point Scenic Reserve is a public reserve, and there is no entry fee. You can visit and enjoy the views freely.
As an outdoor scenic reserve, it is generally accessible during daylight hours. There are no specific opening or closing times posted.
The main restriction is that dogs are not allowed as it is a kiwi preserve. Stick to marked trails and respect the natural environment.
The reserve is generally safe for visitors. However, be cautious on the steep sections and always check tide times when planning to visit Otarawairere Bay.
While technically accessible, visiting at night is not recommended due to safety concerns and the potential to disturb wildlife. It's best enjoyed during daylight hours.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The trails are primarily out-and-back routes through native bush, offering beautiful coastal views. They are not loop trails.
The walk can take approximately two hours, but allow extra time for stops to admire the scenery and take photos.
Some sections are steep, particularly the descent to Otarawairere Bay. It's recommended for those who are steady on their feet.
The reserve is a kiwi preserve, so while sightings are rare, native birds are common. Respect the habitat to protect the kiwi.
Facilities are limited. It's advisable to bring your own water and snacks. There are beautiful spots to stop and enjoy the views.
📸 📸 Photography
The ridgetop walk offers sweeping ocean views, perfect for landscape photography. The historic Maori statues also make for unique shots.
Mornings often provide beautiful golden light for photography, while afternoons can offer dramatic coastal scenes.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check local bylaws and aviation authority rules before flying a drone in the area.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A telephoto lens can be useful for spotting distant marine life.
The ridgetop offers excellent vantage points for both sunrise and sunset, providing spectacular colors over the ocean.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶 Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Trails and Tides
Remember to wear sturdy footwear suitable for uneven terrain. The trails wind through native bush, offering a mix of shaded paths and exposed sections with incredible vistas. Take your time, as there are numerous spots to pause, admire the beauty, and capture photographs.
Wildlife Conservation: A Kiwi Sanctuary
Beyond the kiwi, the reserve is home to various native bird species. While exploring the trails, keep an ear out for their calls and an eye out for glimpses of them flitting through the native flora. By sticking to marked paths and minimizing disturbance, visitors contribute directly to the conservation efforts that protect this precious natural habitat and its unique wildlife.
Cultural Significance and Maori Heritage
When you encounter these statues, take a moment to appreciate their artistry and the stories they might tell. They offer a unique opportunity to connect with the history of the region beyond its natural attractions.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit