Wairaka Statue, Turuturu Roimata, Whakatāne Heads — Attraction in Bay of Plenty

A delightful place to walk, to just sit, and to picnic!

“The Lady on the Rock statue is widely recognised as a symbol of our region, unveiled at the Whakatāne Heads in 1965 as a memorial to the wife of Sir William Sullivan who was a driving force in Whakatāne during the 20th century. The striking bronze statue atop Turuturu Rock lies at the mouth of the Whakatāne River and commemorates the bravery of Wairaka, the daughter of Toroa, captain-navigator of the Mataatua waka.

When the Mataatua waka first arrived at Whakatāne after making a perilous voyage from Ngāti Awa’s ancestral homeland of Hawaiki 600 years ago, the men left the women alone in the canoe while they went ashore. When the canoe started to drift back to sea, Wairaka defied the tapu that forbade women to handle a canoe and seized the paddle to bring the waka back to shore crying,

"Kia Whakatāne au i ahau’ – I will act the part of a man."

This cry is the origin of the town's name.

You can easily view this renowned monument from Muriwai...

Today I had the most beautiful experience walking around Whakatāne Heads and visiting the Lady on the Rock (Wairaka) statue. The 2.5 km walk was pure magic — the sound of waves crashing against the shore, birds chirping, and the golden sunset melting into the horizon created a scene straight out of a postcard. Learning the story of Wairaka, her bravery, and how Whakatāne got its name made the place even more special. The combination of history, nature, and serenity here is simply soothing to the soul. Whether you’re into local legends, love a good scenic walk, or just want a peaceful spot to unwind, this place is a must-visit. We loved every bit...

The Heads is a place I have to visit every time I go back to Whakatane. It is a special place to relax, look out over the river, out to sea. It changes all the time, from flat smooth seas, to large waves. You can watch the boats coming in and out (through the waves can be spectacular). Evening Sunsets with the sun setting behind Wairaka Statue can be fun to try and photograph. The area has been upgraded a lot in the last 20 plus years since I moved away from Whakatane. Better car parking, more grass area's, seats and tables to sit down, eat at, areas to run around. New playground etc, so there is lots of options for a family to...