Last updated May 2026
Katikati sits in the Bay of Plenty approximately one hour from Rotorua on State Highway 2, and makes an easy half-day or full-day trip. The town is known for two things: a striking collection of outdoor murals — more than 70 large-scale works covering historical and cultural subjects — and its position at the centre of New Zealand’s avocado-growing region, with around 500 orchards in the surrounding area producing more than half of New Zealand’s avocado crop. The Haiku Pathway along the Uretara Stream adds a third distinct reason to stop.
Practical Information
| Location | Katikati, Western Bay of Plenty — approximately 75km (1 hour) from Rotorua via SH33/SH2 |
| Murals | 70+ large-scale outdoor murals throughout the town; mural guide available from the visitor centre |
| Haiku Pathway | Free walk along the Uretara Stream with haiku poems carved into boulders; approximately 45 minutes |
| Avocado Tours | 90-minute guided orchard tour — 6 min from Katikati; book in advance |
| Nearby beaches | Waihi Beach (15 min north) and Bowentown (20 min north) |
| Cost | Murals and Haiku Pathway free; avocado tour priced separately |
The Murals
Katikati developed its outdoor mural programme over several decades as a way to animate the town and tell local stories. There are now more than 70 substantial artworks throughout the town and its immediate surroundings — wall murals, sculptures, and pavement installations covering subjects from local Māori history and the story of the Bay of Plenty kiwifruit industry to the natural history of the region and the stories of early settlers. A mural guide (available from the visitor centre) maps each work and explains the stories behind them. Walking the murals takes 1–2 hours and can be done in any order.
Haiku Pathway
The Haiku Pathway follows the Uretara Stream through Katikati — a peaceful riverside walk where haiku poems are carved into boulders and stone slabs at intervals along the path. The poems were contributed by writers from around the world as part of an international project connecting Katikati’s identity with the literary form. The walk takes approximately 45 minutes and is flat and easy throughout. It’s a calm contrast to the more visually busy experience of the town murals.
Avocado Tours
Katikati and its surrounds account for more than half of New Zealand’s avocado production. NZ Avocado Tours runs 90-minute guided tours of a working orchard just 6 minutes from the town centre — covering the growing process, orchard management, global avocado trade and varieties. The tour includes tastings. Booking in advance is recommended.
Nearby: Waihi Beach
Waihi Beach, approximately 15 minutes north of Katikati, is one of the Bay of Plenty’s most popular surf beaches — a long, straight beach with a surf club and lifeguard patrol in summer. Adding Waihi Beach to a Katikati day trip makes a full day from Rotorua combining town, culture, and coast.
“The murals are genuinely impressive — not just tourist trinkets but substantial artworks with real historical depth. The haiku pathway is a nice slower-paced addition.” — TripAdvisor visitor review
“The avocado tour was a highlight — didn’t expect to spend 90 minutes being genuinely fascinated by avocado growing but here we are. The tasting at the end was excellent.” — Google review
Bay of Plenty NZ — Katikati — official tourism guide to Katikati attractions, murals and visitor information.
Tourism New Zealand — Katikati — things to see and do in Katikati from the official NZ tourism platform.
Sapphire Springs — What to Do in Katikati — local guide to Katikati activities from a Bay of Plenty accommodation provider.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Katikati from Rotorua?
Approximately 75km, taking around 1 hour via SH33 toward Te Puke and then SH2 north. The route passes through Bay of Plenty kiwifruit country.
How many murals does Katikati have?
More than 70 large-scale murals and artworks throughout the town and surroundings. A mural walking guide is available from the Katikati visitor centre.
What is the Haiku Pathway?
A free, flat riverside walk along the Uretara Stream where international haiku poems are carved into boulders and stone slabs. Takes approximately 45 minutes.
Do I need to book the avocado tour?
Yes — NZ Avocado Tours runs guided orchard tours on booked sessions. Check the operator’s website for available times and to reserve a place.
Is there a beach near Katikati?
Waihi Beach is approximately 15 minutes north of Katikati — a long surf beach with lifeguard patrol in summer. Bowentown is also nearby.
What is Katikati known for?
Katikati is known as the “Mural Town” for its 70+ outdoor artworks, and as the avocado capital of New Zealand — the surrounding area produces more than half of the country’s avocado crop.
Katikati is an easy stop on the road between Rotorua and Tauranga. Combine it with Mount Maunganui (30 min further north) for a full coastal day. All day trips from Rotorua are listed on the Day Trips from Rotorua hub.
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