About Te Hau Tūtua Park
Te Hau Tūtua Park is an open coastal park and lookout near the Whakatāne Heads in the Bay of Plenty. It’s essentially a public green space rather than an enclosed theatre or stadium, so there’s no fixed seating or roof – visitors enjoy wide views of the harbour and sea. From the park you can see Whakaari/White Island on the horizon and nearby peaks like Pūtauaki/Mt Edgecumbe on clear days (www.kiwifruit.capital ). The park’s name means “the resting breeze,” reflecting its windy seaside setting. It’s a beloved spot for the community because it offers a quiet natural escape in an otherwise urban area.
Te Hau Tūtua Park also holds deep cultural significance. Local iwi Ngāti Awa trace their ancestors’ arrival to this very spot – according to tribal history the first Ngāti Awa waka (canoe) landed here (thespinoff.co.nz ). The park lies just beside the famous Mataatua meeting house (the “House that came home”), which was returned to Whakatāne in 2011. In effect, the land itself is a cultural landmark. Because of this, community gatherings and ceremonies often connect here, especially Māori cultural events and commemorations.
The park’s character is very relaxed and family-friendly. It’s often described as a “delightful gem” where families can bring their dogs, children can play freely, and people go fishing or picnicking (wanderlog.com ). The atmosphere changes with the seasons: on a summer day you might see picnickers and kite-flyers, while calm winter sunsets draw photographers. Each visit can feel new, as the seaside light and tide change the scene (wanderlog.com ). In short, Te Hau Tūtua Park matters to Whakatāne because it blends stunning natural beauty with living local history – a place where the community naturally gathers.
Events and Programming
Unlike a purpose-built venue, Te Hau Tūtua Park doesn’t have a regular schedule of performances. Instead, its events are mostly occasional and community-driven. Typically people use the park for casual recreation – walking, fishing, dog-walking – rather than ticketed shows. However, the council or local groups sometimes stage events here in good weather. For example, the park has hosted summer evening concerts, cultural gatherings and lantern parades in past years. These are usually one-off or annual community events rather than weekly performances. Artists at such events tend to be local or regional acts (ikati/performing groups, kapa haka, local bands) rather than touring superstars. Often these events are timed for summer holidays or Matariki celebrations.
There is no fixed season for events – when the park is used, it’s usually on warm weekends or public holidays. The town’s calendar (Whakatāne events listings) will announce if something is on. In recent years the park has been the site of small festivals, fireworks, and youth music nights, usually free or low-cost. The range of activities is broad: past events included free movie nights under the stars and Māori cultural workshops. Because the space is so open, any stage or seating must be brought in by the organizers. Frequency is low; most weekends the park remains open for drop-in visitors. Ticket prices (if any) for special events here tend to be modest: often free or under NZ$20 for community concerts. If it’s a charity or iwi event, entry is frequently by donation.
In short, Te Hau Tūtua Park is not a “concert hall in the park” by design, but rather a flexible outdoor space. Visitors should check local Whakatāne arts or council bulletins for up-to-date event notices. For informal gatherings (like picnics, dog's birthday parties, etc.) no booking of the park is needed – it’s open for anyone. If you do intend to organise a larger event here, you usually contact Whakatāne District Council’s events team for approval and equipment setups.
Tickets and Booking
For everyday visits, no ticket or booking is needed. Te Hau Tūtua Park is free and open access – you simply walk or drive in. Even when events happen, there is no permanent box office at the park itself. If an organized concert or festival is held here, tickets will be handled by that event’s promoters. These tickets are typically sold online or at local outlets (for example, the Whakatāne visitor centre or box office of a sponsoring organization). Ticket sales usually begin a few weeks before the event date, and popular local shows can sell out quickly if it’s a nice evening. Because events are relatively low-key, ticket prices usually range from free entry up to a small fee in line with local community concerts (often under $30). If a performance does sell out, sometimes a limited number of extra tickets may appear at the door or through the organizers.
Seating and Layout
Te Hau Tūtua Park’s “seating” is entirely informal. There are no permanent stands or VIP boxes – the main area is simply grass slope down to the wharf. If you attend an event, expect general admission. People typically sit on blankets or portable chairs on the lawn. There are a few picnic tables and benches scattered on higher ground, but they are not reserved or numbered. The natural shape of the park works like a gentle amphitheatre: the ground rises inland, so sitting toward the back still gives a clear view over those in front. For best views of any stage, find a spot facing the water with minimal inclination – usually the middle of the slope. Near the edges by the water tend to have excellent sunset views but may expose you to wind or stray light.
Because it’s an open field, sound carries differently than in a closed arena. In practice, any concert here will bring a sound system or speakers facing toward the hill so everyone can hear. There’s no echo from walls, but sound over the water can sometimes carry well. If you stand suddenly close to the stage, you might find it loud, while farther back feels more balanced. The grass is generally flat, but it can get muddy after rain, so keep that in mind for where to sit or stand. Overall, latecomers often spread out on the grass or stand near the paths, while families with chairs might claim the gentler slope. Since attendees essentially stand or sit on ground, many people choose to arrive earlier to pick a spot.
Getting There and Parking
Location: The park is at the end of Domain Road, which runs off State Highway 30/Whakatāne–Matatā Road. If you are coming from Whakatāne town centre, cross the Whakatāne River bridge onto Domain Drive and follow it northeast. Domain Road forks – continue on Domain Road beside the river and you’ll arrive at the park entrance (look for a small sign and parking area on your left). By GPS, “Te Hau Tutua Park, Whakatāne” points right to the spot. It’s adjacent to the Mataatua Marae, so if you see that, you’re in the right place.
Parking: There is a modest free car park inside the park (off Domain Road) with space for a few dozen cars. On busy days it can fill, so have a backup plan. The surrounding streets (along Domain and River Drive) allow free parking and are only a few minutes’ walk away. If those fill up, the Whakatāne Civic Centre and McAlister Street car parks (downtown) are free all day and just a short 5–10 minute drive back toward the CBD. Motorist tip: Domain Road is narrow in places, so drive slowly and look out for pedestrians and parked cars when arriving.
Public Transit: Whakatāne has a local bus service (Baybus route 131) that runs between Whakatāne and Matatā and stops on Domain Road. Ask to get off at “Domain Road – Marae” which is right by the park entrance. From there it’s a 2–5 minute walk into the park. There is no train station in town. Taxis and rideshares (Uber, Zoomy) can drop you off at Domain Road by the entrance; just tell the driver “Mataatua Marae/Domain Road.” Walking from the town centre (Commerce Street) is also straightforward: head northeast along Domain Drive by the river – it’s about 1–1.2 km (roughly 15 minutes on foot).
By Air: Whakatāne’s small regional airport (code: WHK) is approximately 10–12 km from the park (about a 10-minute drive). Daily flights from Auckland and Wellington land there, so if you fly in, you can rent a car or shuttle to Whakatāne town and head straight to Te Hau Tūtua Park. Tauranga Airport (BOP), a larger hub, is about 70–80 km away (roughly a 1.5–2 hour drive north). Both airports offer rental cars and shuttle services connecting to Whakatāne. Always check your arrival times – if you have an afternoon event, an early flight is safest so you can arrive and settle into the park on time.
Cycling: The park is also bike-friendly for those who enjoy cycling. Domain Road is relatively quiet, and you can ride all the way into the park’s entrance. There are bike racks or posts near the picnic tables where you can lock your bicycle. Helmets and bike lights (if it’s evening) are recommended. Riding a bike not only avoids car parking issues but also lets you enjoy the scenic riverside route from town.
Inside the Venue
Once inside, you’ll notice the park is very natural and open. There are no formal gates or checkpoints – just a gravel entry path and open fields. At small gatherings there usually isn’t heavy security, but if it’s a big public event, organisers might have a check at the entrance (sometimes a loudhailer asking people to leave bags, or local volunteers guiding you). In general, plan to arrive casual and free; it’s not like a city stadium where metal detectors are common. The ground underfoot is mostly short grass with some patches of gravel or sand, so it’s uneven but well-trodden. Expect to walk a bit if you go from one end to the other (~300 meters).
Atmosphere: You’ll likely hear neighbors chatting, birds singing, and waves. The space feels very suburban-casual. If an event is on, you might see a temporary wooden stage, some scaffold or lights set up on the field, and maybe decorations or portable toilets at the entry. If no event, it’s just greenery with a few trees (mainly by the entrance) and coastal scrub along the edges. There’s a nice sense of openness – often you’ll see kids running or dogs playing with little enforcement needed. The trade-off is exposure: on a hot day it can be very sunny, and if it’s cold or windy you feel every breeze (so bring layers).
Food and Drink: There are no cafes or stands built into the park itself. We recommend you bring your own snacks or pick up food in town beforehand. During larger events, mobile food trucks or barbecues often come in (especially in summer), selling burgers, fish & chips, ice cream, etc. Otherwise, you can always walk to the Domain Road wharf for fish n’ chips or the Domain Road Dairy (a small corner store by the marae) for ice cream and drinks. If the event is licensed, you might purchase beer or wine there; if not, any alcoholic beverages you bring must be kept responsible (no glass bottles, and don’t drink if you’re the driver). For drinks, bottled water is wise because no taps are provided.
Restrooms and Facilities: Note that there are no permanent toilets or sinks inside the park. The nearest public restrooms are back in Whakatāne’s town center (a few minutes’ drive) or the ones by the wharf area. If you arrive and need a restroom, you should go before entering or use any toilets inside the marae complex if they are open (often not public). During big events, portable toilets may be brought in near the entrance, but don’t assume they’ll be there. Bring hand sanitizer in case. There is also no official water fountain, coat check, or phone charging station on site. In short, come self-contained: carry tissues, water bottles, sunscreen, and anything else you need.
Merch and Connectivity: In normal park use, there is no merchandise stand and no free Wi-Fi. If it’s a ticketed event, the performers or organizers might sell T-shirts or CDs at a table, and in that case Wi-Fi may still be non-existent, though your mobile data should work. Cell reception is generally good (Vodafone/Spark/2degrees all have coverage here), so you can usually get online on your own device if needed. The ambience remains that of a public park: very little infrastructure, mostly a big open sky.
Nearby Amenities
Te Hau Tūtua Park sits slightly outside the main shopping district, but a short drive or walk brings you to a variety of options:
Restaurants/Cafés: At the bottom of Domain Road (just past the park entrance) there’s a popular seafood café/ takeaway that often doubles as a casual restaurant with outdoor seating and harbor views. A few minutes’ drive into town (along Domain Drive and across the bridge) you'll find many more choices. The Strand waterfront has casual spots like fish-and-chip shops and cafes. In the town centre (Commerce Street and The Esplanade), there are several eateries ranging from pizzerias and burger joints to Asian and Kiwi-style restaurants. For example, the New Orleans-style *Mama Rosa’s* or the classic *White Island Fish Shop* are local favorites. If you want coffee and sweet treats, look for small bakeries and cafes on The Strand – for instance *The Rusty Bean* (which also has a bar and craft beers). During the day any of these are a good pre-show dining option within 5–10 minutes of the park.Bars and Takeaways: Within a 5–10 minute drive of the park you’ll reach several pubs and bars. Notable ones in town include the *Peace Tavern* and *The Wharf Street Bar*, both with full menus and drinks. These venues often stay open late and occasionally host live music – just remember to check if they have private events on concert nights. For grocery or take-away supplies, Domain Road has a small convenience store (dairy) near the Marae entrance – it stocks basics like snacks, ice cream, cold drinks and bottled beer. There isn’t a full supermarket right on Domain Road, but there is a Countdown and a New World supermarket in town, about a 10-minute drive away, if you plan to stock up before heading out.Lodging: Several motels and inns are located along major roads near Whakatāne. For example, the *Quality Inn* and *Copthorne Hotel & Resort* are both under five minutes’ drive from the park. A unique nearby option is the *Edgewater Motel* on Domain Road, set right above the harbour. For budget travelers, Whakatāne has a backpackers and holiday park options: the Whakatāne TOP 10 Holiday Park is on Domain Road next to the park (with cabins and camping by the beach), and *Baypark Motor Lodge* (opposite the war memorial) is also nearby. If you’re looking for a beach holiday feel, the seaside town of Ōhope is just 10 km north – it has beach motels and holiday homes with easy access to the park (a short drive). Whatever your preference, most accommodation options in Whakatāne are within 5–10 minutes of Te Hau Tūtua Park by car.
What Makes This Venue Special
What really sets Te Hau Tūtua Park apart is the combination of its natural beauty and its place in Māori heritage. Architecturally it’s just a grassy headland, but culturally it’s a living landmark. The fact that Ngāti Awa’s ancestors arrived here gives the park a spiritual aura (thespinoff.co.nz ). Many locals say that standing out on the peninsula feels like being at the birthplace of the community. The nearby Mataatua wharenui and Lady on the Rock (“the lady in the harbour”) story add to this sense – when you visit, you’re walking on land rich with legend. Audiences and performers alike often remark that the backdrop of the ocean, Whakaari/White Island and the river mouth creates an amazing setting for any event. Sunset concerts here (if there are any!) are especially magical; even if it’s just a casual guitar gathering, the sky and sea make it feel professional.
Another signature quality is the park’s friendly, open-air vibe. It’s a space where the whole community feels at home – kids run around, dogs are welcome (wanderlog.com ), and people casually chat. This informality means visitors can experience fare at your own pace – you might meet neighbors or musicians on the grass. Artists who have played here say the audience is immediately family-like, not a distant crowd. Even if an event isn’t scheduled, most visitors love simply standing by the water’s edge to watch boats or the local wildlife. The mix of calm memorial spaces (like the anchor monument) and a commanding view of the harbour makes it a meaningful location. Whler famous halls might have more polish, Te Hau Tūtua Park has character. The legends, sea breezes and sunsets make it a place both audiences and performers remember long after they leave.
Visitor Tips and Information
Bring the Essentials: There’s no convenience store inside the park, so come prepared. Pack water, sunscreen and a hat especially in summer – the grass offers no shade. In cooler or windy weather, a light jacket is wise. Always carry a small first-aid kit or tissues, as there are no facilities on site. If you have a picnic or need multiple snacks, arrival can wait until after a quick stop in town or at the Domain Road dairy.Footwear: Wear comfortable shoes or sandals. The ground is mostly flat grass and gravel, but patches of sand or shells can be rough on bare feet. Thongs (flip-flops) often get sandy; sturdy sandals or trainers are best. Avoid heels or anything slick – it’s turf, dirt and rock here.Bag and Belongings: There’s no coat check or locker. Keep your belongings with you. If you set down a wallet or phone on a blanket while you swim or wander, remember someone might squat on it. Many visitors leave bags near the picnic benches (they trust the relaxed vibe), but at larger events have someone stay with valuables or carry them at all times.Photography and Drone Use: The park is a photographer’s dream, so feel free to take pictures (and now that you know local legends, every photo is more interesting!). If you use a drone, be very careful: New Zealand regulations require flying disengaged from crowds and not in no-fly zones (check the Harbour restrictions). For casual phones and cameras, there’s no problem. Just be mindful of other visitors’ privacy – don’t intrude on people’s picnics or ceremonies.Accessibility: The main pathway is fairly smooth and suitable for wheelchairs or strollers. However, the grass pitches can be bumpy or muddy. If you use a wheelchair, it’s best to stay on the gravel/grass transition zone (toward the top ridge); a companion can help if you need to move down to the water’s edge. There are no fences, but the park’s flat layout and wide paths make it more accessible than most coastal areas. There are no special disability toilets, unfortunately, so plan accordingly.Weather: The park has no cover, so weather is your biggest factor. Check the forecast before heading out. Rain typically means events will be postponed. Dress in layers or waterproofs as needed. Even on a sunny day, wind off the Bay can chill you. If it’s windy, the baby carriage or umbrella could blow – tether them or pack them back. Most people schedule concerts or picnics here only in fine weather, but if skies change, have a backup plan.Litter and Recycling: Bring a small bag to carry out your rubbish. There are a couple of bins near the entry but they fill up quickly during big gatherings. Even if no bins are around, please take garbage home. Locals keep this park spotless and appreciate visitors who do the same (and it keeps the wildlife safe). Cycling: Bicycles are welcome. You can bike all the way down Domain Road and park at the park’s entrance area. There are posts or racks near the picnic tables where you can lock your bike. It’s a quick ride from town, especially on the flat Domain Drive cycle path. If you’re listening to an event on your bike, just pull over so pedestrians can pass. Helmets are required by law, and carry lights if you bike back after dark.Behavior: This is a community space, so casual respectful behavior is expected. Don’t blast loud music unless you’re on stage, and supervise children near the water. If you plan any decorations or a small barbecue, please make sure it’s cool enough to avoid fire risk and clean up thoroughly after. If you find any historical plaques or carvings around, treat them with respect (don’t climb on them or deface them). Finally, if the local marae has a service or inihonor event happening, give it space or ask if it’s okay to enter – local Māori hospitality (manaakitanga) is strong here.
Do I need to buy a ticket to enter Te Hau Tūtua Park?
No. Te Hau Tūtua Park is a public free-access park. There are no entry fees or tickets needed to enter the park itself – you just walk or drive in at any time the park is open (essentially dawn to dusk). Tickets only come into play if you attend a specific special event or concert that is being held there. In that case you would need to purchase a ticket for the event, but not to enter the park on a normal day.
Where can I park when visiting Te Hau Tūtua Park?
There’s a small free car park right inside the park at the end of Domain Road. It holds maybe a few dozen cars, and spaces are first-come. If that lot is full, you can park on the adjacent quiet streets (Domain Drive and River Drive); they’re free but watch for no-parking signs. Downtown Whakatāne also has free parking (e.g. the Civic Centre carpark). If you park in town, it’s about a 5-10 minute drive back to the park or a short bike ride. In any case, all parking around the park is free (no meters or fees).
Is there public transport or shuttle service to Te Hau Tūtua Park?
There is no dedicated shuttle, but the local Baybus route (131 Whakatāne–Matatā) has stops on Domain Road right next to the park. Catch the bus to the “Whakatāne Domain – Marae” stop. From there it’s a very short walk into the park. Regular city buses do not run late, so for evening events a taxi or rideshare is best. Rideshare drivers will drop you off at Domain Road’s entrance if you say “Mataatua Marae / Domain Road, Whakatane.” Walking from the town center is also possible (about 1 km along Domain Drive).
Are there any seats, blankets or VIP areas at Te Hau Tūtua Park?
No fixed seats or VIP stands are built in. It’s essentially an open field. You can bring your own blanket or folding chair and sit on the grass or at one of the picnic tables (few available). There is no reserved premium area. If an event is organized, sometimes chairs, marquees or platforms might be temporarily arranged, but normally everyone is on an equal footing on the lawn. The park’s gentle slope does act like a natural amphitheatre, so people often choose higher ground for a better view. In short: plan to sit or stand on the grass – if you want furniture comfort, bring it yourself.
Can I bring my dog into Te Hau Tūtua Park?
Yes, dogs are welcome. In fact the park is a popular place for local dog owners to take their pets for exercise. Dogs can often be off-leash if they are well-controlled, since it’s a large open space (wanderlog.com ). Just be sure to keep your dog under control around others and always pick up after it. The park does not have a designated “dog pound,” but owners do educate each other; common courtesy (leashing if there are many people or wildlife, cleaning up) is expected.
Is Te Hau Tūtua Park wheelchair or stroller accessible?
Partially. The main gravel path into the park is relatively flat and can accommodate wheelchairs and strollers. Once on the main level, wheelchairs can maneuver, though the grass areas are uneven. There are no steep steps; however, the ground can be soft or bumpy, so someone might need to assist if you’re going onto the lawn. For the best experience, stay on the firmer ground near the top of the park (near the entrance and picnic tables). In summary: wheelchairs and strollers can enter and enjoy most of the park, but it is not perfectly smooth terrain.
Are there toilets or food stands at Te Hau Tūtua Park?
No permanent toilets or food outlets are on site. There are no public restrooms inside the park. The nearest facilities are back in Whakatāne township. If an event is being held, the organizers might bring portable toilets or food trucks, but you should not count on it. Plan to use facilities before you arrive, and bring any food and drink you’ll need. A small store at the Marae entrance sells snacks and drinks in a pinch, or you can grab a meal in town before heading out.
What should I bring to enjoy the park or an event there?
Dress casually and for the weather. Sunglasses and sunblock are wise in summer; a light jacket is good on breezy evenings. Bring water and snacks, since there are no shops on site. Portable chairs or picnic blankets make sitting more comfortable. In case of rain, a poncho or small umbrella can help (though hold it carefully in case of wind). A small backpack to carry your belongings (and to take away trash) is useful. In short: come prepared as if for any day outdoors. If you have any valuables, keep them with you because coin-operated lockers or check rooms do not exist here.
Is camping or overnight parking allowed at Te Hau Tūtua Park?
No. Te Hau Tūtua Park is a daytime park only. Sleeping overnight or camping within the park grounds is not permitted. The area is intended for daytime recreation; if you leave tents, camping gear or vehicles overnight, the council may ask you to move them. If you want a coastal camping experience, consider the nearby Whakatāne TOP10 Holiday Park (which has camping by the beach) instead.
Are there any dress or age restrictions for events at the park?
For general park use, anyone of any age can visit at any time – it’s a public space. If there is a ticketed event, the promoter might set an age limit (for example, 18+ for a late-night rock concert). Always check the event details. There is no formal dress code – visitors attend in anything from T-shirts and shorts to casual evening wear. The key is to dress for the outdoors rather than fashion. In winter, for instance, warm layers are a must; in summer, a smart-casual outfit with sandals or sneakers is common. Just be comfortable for walking on grass.
What happens if it rains when I’m planning to visit?
Since the park is fully outdoors, rain can disrupt plans. If you’re just visiting casually, you’ll get wet – obtain rain gear or umbrellas for such days, or postpone your outing. If there is an event scheduled, the organizers will likely cancel or reschedule it in heavy rain. In many cases with big events, tickets can be exchanged for a future date or another performance instead of a direct refund, but policies vary by event. In general: always check the forecast and any official event updates before heading to Te Hau Tūtua Park on a questionable-weather day.
How early should I arrive for a performance at Te Hau Tūtua Park?
For ticketed concerts or big events, it’s wise to show up at least 30–45 minutes before the stated start time. This allows time to find parking and pick a good spot on the lawn. Doors often open earlier to let people in. If it’s a free community activity, arriving early also helps you secure a picnic table or bench. Generally, even 15-20 minutes early is better than running in at the last second, since the car park can be busy and the walk into the park takes a few minutes.
Is Te Hau Tūtua Park safe for children and families?
Yes, the park is generally very family-friendly. Many local families bring kids here to play on the grass or fish at the shore (wanderlog.com ). There is no motor traffic within the park during events, so children can run around safely. The only real hazard is the water: the Whakatāne Bar can have strong currents, so children should be supervised near the water’s edge or muddy bars. Use caution if swimming off the wharf (it’s allowed but can be slippery). Otherwise, it’s a trusted community spot and children’s laughter is a normal part of the scene.
What does “Te Hau Tūtua” mean?
“Te Hau” in Māori means “the wind” or “the breeze,” and the full phrase suggests a “gentle resting breeze.” In geography, this name was likely chosen because the park is very exposed to ocean winds and its open, serene atmosphere. So the name reflects the coastal breezes that constantly flow there. Many Māori place names describe natural features, and this one describes the wind at the lookout point.
What is the connection between Te Hau Tūtua Park and Ngāti Awa history?
Te Hau Tūtua Park is of great importance to Te Whakatāne’s Ngāti Awa people. It is considered the traditional landing site of their ancestor’s waka (ocean-going canoe) when Māori first arrived in the region (thespinoff.co.nz ). In other words, it’s where their journey ashore began. Because of that, the park (and adjacent Whakatāne Heads) is considered sacred whakapapa (genealogy) land. Many cultural ceremonies and commemorations take place there. Visitors often learn about this history from local guides or plaques. In practical terms, it means people should treat the area with respect and realize it’s more than just “a park” to the iwi.
