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Bay of Plenty
Whakatāne
Known as the sunshine capital of New Zealand, Whakatāne offers beautiful beaches, outdoor adventures, and a welcoming community.
Population
~20,000
Quick Facts
Annual Rainfall
1,300mm annually
Annual Sunshine
2,400 hours annually
Climate & Weather
Understanding the local climate helps you prepare for your new life in Whakatāne.
Summer (Dec - Feb)
Warm and sunny, perfect for beach activities
25°C
Average High
16°C
Average Low
Winter (Jun - Aug)
Mild winters with plenty of sunshine
17°C
Average High
8°C
Average Low
Monthly Weather Overview
Temperature and rainfall patterns throughout the year
Jan
High/Low
25°/16°C
Rainfall
85mm
Feb
High/Low
26°/17°C
Rainfall
75mm
Mar
High/Low
24°/15°C
Rainfall
90mm
Apr
High/Low
22°/13°C
Rainfall
95mm
May
High/Low
19°/10°C
Rainfall
110mm
Jun
High/Low
17°/8°C
Rainfall
125mm
Jul
High/Low
16°/7°C
Rainfall
130mm
Aug
High/Low
17°/8°C
Rainfall
120mm
Sep
High/Low
19°/10°C
Rainfall
105mm
Oct
High/Low
21°/12°C
Rainfall
90mm
Nov
High/Low
23°/14°C
Rainfall
85mm
Dec
High/Low
24°/15°C
Rainfall
80mm
Things to Do
Discover what makes Whakatāne special - from natural attractions to cultural experiences.
Whakatāne Beach - beautiful white sand beach
Moutohora (Whale Island) - wildlife sanctuary tours
Whakatāne River Walk - scenic riverside trail
Ohope Beach - voted NZ's best beach
White Island tours - active volcano experience
Kohi Point Walkway - stunning coastal views
Teacher Stories
Hear from teachers who chose to make Whakatāne their home
"Teaching in the sunshine capital means outdoor education all year round. My students are so engaged when we can take learning outside. The community support for schools here is incredible."
Emma Wilson
Whakatāne High School
Science teacher, moved from Wellington in 2021
Ready to Explore Teaching in Whakatāne?
Take the next step in your teaching journey and discover the opportunities waiting for you.