After a five-year hiatus, Whakatāne unofficially holds the sought-after New Zealand ‘sunshine capital’ title. A total of 2704 sunshine hours recorded in 2020 put Whakatāne 89 hours ahead of second-place Richmond, the 2019 winner. Whakatāne also took out first place in the sunshine stakes for January, February, May and December. 

Whakatāne District Mayor Judy Turner says the news is a wonderful boost after what has been a challenging year.

“The Whakaari/White Island tragedy, followed closely by the effects of the COVID-19 lockdown, had a significant impact on our communities,” she says. “Winning the contested sunshine capital is very exciting, an exceptional start to the new year.”

She goes on to say, only slightly tongue-in-cheek, that Whakatāne District residents are more than willing to share their sunshine with Kiwis from around the country.

“We’d like to extend a warm welcome to the rest of New Zealand to take a break from their lack of sunshine hours, and come and share ours. We have an abundance of sunshine throughout the year, which only adds to the magic of the Eastern Bay of Plenty. There are so many things to experience here – rich cultural history, secluded beaches, boutique shopping and incredible outdoor adventures right on our back doorstep.”

New Zealand’s sunniest spot is a highly-contested competition, with several centres vying for the top position each year. After the official announcement, Whakatāne will have been crowned sunshine capital five times since records kept by the National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (NIWA) began, and continues to be reigning champion for the North Island.

Mayor Turner is looking forward to the official transfer of the sunshine capital trophy and accompanying hat from Richmond’s Mayor, Tim King. 

“I’m thrilled that the accolade confirms what we already know – that Whakatāne has everything under the sun, and plenty of sun at that,” she says. “As the results show, Whakatāne is the perfect place to soak up an extended summer. I welcome anyone who has yet to decide on a holiday destination this year, to come and enjoy the spectacular weather and excellent hospitality we’re known for.”