OPOTIKI Utilizing highway 38, Opotiki is the first major population centre after Gisborne. Along Highway 38 the following vistas an attractions are a must visit. The Tikitiki Maori church is a great example of the effects of Christendom on the Maori. Then at Te Aroroa there is the 350 year old Pohutakawa. Hicks Point lookout follows, and then at Te Kaha the second Maori church. At Te Kaha there is ones first look at White Island. This is a long drive and visitors should allow a day for the journey. Opotiki is a thriving centre that after a long period of slow/no growth there is again increased development. This primarily driven by the pristine beaches and climate of the area. In the early days Opotiki was only able to visit by boat. The isolation driven by the conflicts with the local Maori tribes. There is still to this day an element of mistrust the local people. The climate is temperate. Summer temperatures reach the mid-20s (Celsius, mid-70s Fahrenheit) on the coast and encourage a continuation of the beach culture of the Bay of Plenty. Winter days are often cloudless. The active volcano at White Island lies offshore and represents a tsunami risk. Opotiki is an old town and two of the Hotels have heritage Trust. The Opotiki Museum is open daily and gives a very good insight of the early years. The War Memorial has a strong profile in the town. All major Christian denominations are represented. Opotiki is well worth the visit and allow half a day to make the most of this great town.