Discover Kaputerangi Lookout
Kaputerangi Lookout is situated at the highest point of Kohi Point Reserve, near Whakatāne in the Bay of Plenty, North Island. This location sits on the Ngā Tapuwai o Toi Walkway and has breathtaking views, particularly to the west and southwest. You can either hike from downtown Whakatāne or drive up via Otarawairere Road and Kohi Point Lookout Road to reach this scenic spot.
Scenic Views and Walking Tracks
The lookout is surrounded by a large grassed reserve, bordered by the regenerating forest of Kohi Point Reserve and steep farmland. As you ascend by road, you'll be treated to stunning views over Ōhope. From the lookout, a short walk down the grassy slope connects you to the Ngā Tapuwai o Toi Track. This track leads down to Whakatāne or towards Kohi Point at the tip of Whakatāne Heads.
Significance of Kapu-te-rangi Pā
At the car park atop the road, you'll find a pou and two plaques marking the historical significance of Kapu-te-rangi Pā, also known as Toi’s Pā. This site, meaning "Pā of Gentle Breezes," is one of New Zealand's oldest known pā and is of great importance for Ngāti Awa.
It is linked to Toi-te-Huatahi, who is believed to have arrived in Aotearoa around 1150, predating the arrival of the ocean-going wakas Arawa, Tainui, and Mātaatua by at least a century. Toi's legacy is also reflected in the Ngā Tapuwai o Toi Track and Te Whāiti-nui-a-Toi Canyon in Whirinaki Forest. The pā was returned to Ngāti Awa as part of the Treaty of Waitangi claims settlement in 2005.
How to Get There
To visit Kaputerangi Lookout, you can either hike from downtown Whakatāne or drive. If driving, take Hillcress Road, which becomes Ohope Road, towards Ōhope. Turn off onto Otarawairere Road, then onto Kohi Point Lookout Road, which winds up to the top of Kohi Point Reserve.
Whakatāne has several other attractions that combine Māori history with beautiful scenery. Visit the statue of Wairaka at the harbour mouth, Pahoturao Rock, Muriwai's Cave and the pā sites on Ngā Tapuwai o Toi Walkway as it climbs above the town.
