Bars and Nightlife in Whakatāne, New Zealand
Discover Top Bars and Local Nightlife Experiences
Find the best bars and nightlife options in Whakatāne with our regularly updated guide, showcasing local favourites, new venues, and hidden spots perfect for evening drinks or weekend catch-ups. Explore our curated listings to discover lively atmospheres, great cocktails, and must-visit nightlife destinations across the Bay of Plenty.
Olive Branch
Discover The Olive Branch in Whakatāne, a top spot for handcrafted cocktails, quality drinks, and relaxed evening vibes in the Eastern Bay of Plenty. Explore our page to view opening hours, read real reviews, and plan your visit—making The Olive Branch a must-stop destination for travellers and locals looking for great drinks, social nights, and memorable Whakatāne experiences.
Detour
Discover Detour Bar and Grill in Whakatāne, a popular spot for cold drinks, cocktails, and classic bar snacks in the Eastern Bay of Plenty. Explore our page to check opening hours, read real reviews, and plan your visit, making Detour a go-to stop for relaxed drinks, shared plates, and easygoing nights out for both locals and travellers.
Ohope Beach Tavern
Ohope Beach Tavern is a popular waterfront spot offering great food, refreshing drinks, and one of the best coastal atmospheres in the Bay of Plenty. Located right on the shores of Ōhope Beach, it’s a favourite for live music, casual dining, and sunset views. Explore our updated listing to discover why visitors and locals choose Ohope Beach Tavern for relaxed nights out and memorable seaside experiences.
Aribar
Aribar is a lively Whakatāne bar known for its upbeat atmosphere, great cocktails, and popular weekend nights. Located close to the town centre, it’s a go-to spot for social drinks, music, and late-night fun. Explore our updated listing to see why Aribar remains a favourite nightlife choice for locals and visitors across the Bay of Plenty.
Cigol
Discover Cigol’s Korean Restaurant in Whakatāne, a top dining choice for visitors planning to travel to the Bay of Plenty for tourism, day trips, and local food discovery.
Check the Cigol’s page for authentic menus, opening hours, and real customer reviews to plan your trip to Whakatāne and make it a must-visit restaurant stop in the Eastern Bay of Plenty, North Island NZ.
Wagon
Discover The Wagon Burger in Whakatāne, a top local restaurant stop for visitors exploring Bay of Plenty tourism and planning to travel to the Eastern Bay.
Visit The Wagon Burger page for menus, opening hours, and real reviews to plan your Whakatāne day trip and book a must-stop burger destination in the Bay of Plenty, North Island NZ.
Try the Bars and Nightlife in Whakatane
Whakatāne’s bars and nightlife scene offers travellers a unique blend of coastal relaxation and vibrant social energy, making it one of the must-experience attractions in the Bay of Plenty. Whether you’re looking for a chilled evening drink, a lively night out, or a place to enjoy music with friends, Whakatāne provides a diverse range of venues that suit every style. From waterfront taverns overlooking Ōhope Beach to modern bars in the town centre, visitors can enjoy everything from cocktails and craft beers to fine wines and popular New Zealand favourites.
Exploring the nightlife in Whakatāne gives travellers an opportunity to enjoy the town’s coastal charm long after the day’s activities have ended. Many bars offer outdoor seating, sea breezes, and relaxed alfresco spaces ideal for warm evenings. Others bring the energy with live DJs, local bands, themed nights, and social weekend events—creating the perfect atmosphere for those wanting to dance, mingle, and experience Whakatāne’s friendly community spirit. With bar snacks, shared plates, and late-night dining available at several venues, guests can enjoy great food alongside their drinks.
Whakatāne’s nightlife also connects visitors with the local culture. Whether you’re chatting with residents, meeting other travellers, or getting recommendations from bar staff about the best things to do in the region, nights out here often become memorable highlights of the trip. Each venue offers its own personality, from casual social pubs to upbeat town-centre hotspots, ensuring every traveller can find their perfect place to unwind.
For anyone visiting the Eastern Bay of Plenty, experiencing Whakatāne’s bars and nightlife is an essential part of the journey. It’s the ideal way to relax after a day of exploring beaches, nature walks, and local attractions. With friendly hospitality, great music, and a welcoming coastal vibe, Whakatāne delivers a nightlife experience that adds fun, flavour, and unforgettable memories to every visit.