Opotiki

Opotiki is a small coastal town in the eastern Bay of Plenty on New Zealand's North Island. It is the starting point for State Highway 35, which follows much of the coastline of the East Cape and terminates in Gisborne.

By car
Opotiki is 30 minutes drive east from Whakatane, which is the best bet for car hire.

By bus
Intercity Coachlines stops outside Hot Bread Shop illy Cafe, 43 St Johns St. Daily services are: Auckland via Whakatane, Rotorua and Hamilton 10:30am; Gisborne via Matawai 4:45pm.

BayBus. Probably the cheapest way to get around the Bay of Plenty.

Services may change so check websites for more details.

By plane
The nearest airport with scheduled passenger flights is at Whakatane. Rental cars are available at the airport.

Get around
All car parking is free.

Eat
Opotiki has several fast food outlets, mainly Chinese takeaways. For good Kiwi food visit one of the fish and chips stores in the town.

Go next

 * The drive to Gisborne around the East Cape on State Highway 35 features spectacular ocean views and remote settlements. Allow 8 hours on the road. Then return to Opotiki on State Highway 2 via Matawai and the Waioeka Gorge. Allow 11–12 hours on the road for the round trip.