Latest News from One88

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Time to take advantage of the warmer weather and bring the spring back into your step with a well-deserved holiday adventure with luxury accommodation to top it off at One88 On Commerce. With the wonderful Bay of Plenty weather It’s time to plan your getaway and our wonderful hosts, Liz and Malcolm at One88 On Commerce are happy to help.

Here are just a few local attractions that are sure to create some memorable moments;

White Island Tours

Get close up and personal with our very own active volcano with steam vents, bubbling pits of mud, hot volcanic streams and the amazing lake of steaming acid, it is surely New Zealand's most impressive geothermal site.  The abundant sulphur creates vivid hues of yellow and orange on the island, making it a photographer’s dream. Make sure to ask about Whale island tours for nature lovers.

Ohope Beach

If you’re looking for a beautiful and relaxing destination then Ohope Beach is the stop for you. The outdoor activities in this area are abundant, you can kayak and explore the islands in tranquil Ohiwa Harbour, journey to stunning secluded Otarawairere beach which is only accessible on foot or kayak. More options range from sailing, surfing or golfing, Ohope Beach is definitely a must on your holiday.

Julians Berry Farm

More than just a great family outing, Julians Berry Farm has quickly become a local favourite. Enjoy the scrumptious treats from the cafe, visit their animal farm or pick your favourite berries to your hearts content. You can even have a round or mini golf but don't forget to try their mouthwatering berry ice creams!

Frontier Helicopters - White Island Volcano Adventure

A mind blowing adventure when you fly with Frontier Helicopters on their White Island Volcano Adventure. Admire the breathtaking views of this dramatic island from above then land in the sulphurous crater, and explore it's alien, moon-like surface. This guided tour is sure to be the highlight of your stay, make sure to ask about other scenic flights.

With other activities ranging from Jet Boating, nature walks, Maori Marae Experience, fishing charters, you're bound to have a wonderful stay in our sunny Whakatane. Book now at One88 On Commerce and we’ll help you have a perfect holiday with whatever activities that strike your fancy.

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Almost a year has passed since One88 On Commerce Motel opened its doors and we want you to celebrate with us! Just mention our first birthday when you make your booking on our website for your stay in the month of July and enjoy a complimentary bottle of wine! Simply phone us on 0800 188662 and tell us your favourite wine variety.

This past year marks a cornerstone for One88 On Commerce positioning itself as the finest accommodation in Whakatane. Mark and Kellies attention to detail and their exceptional service all contributes to guests overall experience that has generated fantastic website reviews. “We have had excellent feedback from our guests who have been most complimentary about the units and facilities,” said Mark. “People are impressed with the quality and appreciate the attention to detail throughout the complex.”

What has made One88 the place to stay in whakatane?

Whether it’s business or pleasure, perhaps the luxurious suites have something to do with it. No nights sleep is comparable to the comfort of their super king beds and you can further indulge if you opt for a spa suite. Space is a luxury in every room at One88 On Commerce and if you want to catch your favourite show then do so on the 46’ and 55’ Smart TVs.

One88’s central CBD location makes it ideal with only a 10 minute walk to shops, cafes and restaurants. Or you maybe looking for a White Island adventure tour or just to enjoy the numerous outdoor activities in Whakatane and Ohope that we can arrange.

Luxury and comfort is an art that has been beautifully catered by these exceptional hosts and this has certainly contributed to One88s success in its first year, and most definitely to the years to come. Happy 1st Birthday One88!

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For a small place, Whakatane has a lot going for it - especially its sparkling waters and beautiful beaches. There are plenty of options for fun and relaxation and it's always a special experience.

Thornton Beach

Thornton Beach is on the western side of the river from Whakatane and a good choice for a long wild beach stroll to yourself. Enjoy the spectacular ocean and island views. Above all, Thornton Beach is a fisherman’s haven where you can surf cast from shore or use the boat ramp and head out to sea.

Whakatane River inlet

For a quick dip on your doorstep, walk out of your accommodation at ONE88 and alongside the river towards the mouth. At the area known as The Heads, there is a small sandy beach behind the rock wall luring you to chill out, soak up the sun or simply do nothing.

Ohope Beach

New Zealand's best beach at Ohope is a popular beauty spot and it's easy to see why; a long sweep of flawless sand and lapping waves set against a backdrop of gnarled pohutakawa. There is a perfect play area with safe swimming, surfing, picnic spots, playgrounds and toilets as well as nearby eateries.

Otawairere Bay

If you fancy some serious beach eye candy, make the effort to get to this hidden cove which only has walking and boating access. Pack a picnic and your sunscreen and spend the day. Swim, snorkel and gather shellfish. It doesn't get better.

Opotoki

Use Whakatane as your base and head east for the day to explore a line up of unspoilt beaches. Hukuwai Beach is just out of Opotiki. It's sandy, safe for swimming, surfcasting and long-line fishing. Only 3km further is Tirohanga Beach, often described as the gateway to the East Cape. Revel in the power of the ocean and the feeling of sand between your toes. Why go any further? 

Photos courtesy of www.whakatane.com.

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The beautiful coastal retreat of Whakatane has lots to offer visitors over the Christmas holidays. Book your Christmas and New Years accommodation with us at One88 On Commerce and you'll find there's plenty to keep you and your family busy.

Local Activities

From the relaxing to heart pumping there is a myriad of holiday activities you can do while in Whakatane. Fishing, sea kayaking, volcano exploring, scenic flights... or simply take a walk on New Zealand's best beach!

Summer Events

Don't miss the Beacon Whakatane Christmas Light Trail, 11-24 December in Pyne Street. Guaranteed to get you in the Christmas spirit!

There are two special exhibitions on this summer at the Whakatane Exhibition Centre. Over 30 paintings are being shown from the prestigious Fletcher Collection and there's a rare chance to view an important collection of taonga from local Iwi, Whakatohea.

Speed demons get yourselves to Manawhe, Whakatane for two days of spectacular action with Motocross's National Summercross event, 27-28 December.

Browse the vibrant Ohope market, followed by a relaxed evening of music at the Ohope Concert at the Beach - Saturday, 2 January 2016.

Head down to Opotoki on Sunday, 3 January 2016 for the Lantern Festival with Dave Dobbyn and Herbs headlining the event.

And on Saturday, 9 January 2016, the annual Berry Town festival is a fun market day in the centre of Whakatane.

Where to spend New Years Eve

Mount Maunganui (above) is an iconic New Zealand New Year's Eve location and the famous beach is just 50 minutes away via the new express toll road. This year's headline act is Trinity Roots.

Or, you could dance and party the night away at nearby Rotorua's popular GLO Festival Party in the Park.

For a quieter celebration close to home, its hard to beat Ohope Beach for a  family picnic, beach rugby and games of spotlight as the sun goes down.

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One88 On Commerce is a luxury motel in Whakatane, opened in 2015 offering contemporary accommodation for both business and leisure travellers.

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Before the motel was opened in July it was officially blessed with a Karakia performed by local Maori Ngati Awa elders Pouroto Ngaropo and stan Ratahi.

Karakia are Maori incantation and prayers used to invoke spiritual guidance and protection.

The ceremony was held at One88 On Commerce at sunrise on a crisp June morning.

Mark and Kelly Ross, owners and operators of the new motel and their children Mikaela and Aston joined Pouroto and Stan for this special occasion.

All 22 units were blessed and the Karakia delivered to invoke the safety and protection of the gods over the new motel's buildings and all those visitors who will stay here.

ONE88 ON COMMERCE is now open for business and getting rave reviews by satisfied customers many of whom have made a return visit already. It's going to be a very busy summer season for this new superior motel!

Book now to ensure you don't miss out.

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Mark and Kellie Ross opened their new motel ONE88 ON COMMERCE on Friday 26th June.

The motel has 16 spacious one bedroom luxury units, 8 of which have spa baths and 6 generous two bedroom units with spa baths. All have super king beds with top quality linen and modern furnishings.

The web site www.one88oncommerce.co.nz is now live and bookings can be made on line.

Inspections are welcome. Mark and Kellie are confident that guest will be impressed with the exceptionally high standard to which the motels have been build.

Attention to detail has been given careful consideration to ensure that guests are treated to every comfort and need that they can expect to make the most of their stay at ONE88 ON COMMERCE.

Mark and Kellie extend a warm welcome to you at Whakatane's newest motel ONE88 ON COMMERCE.

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With the project nearing completion One88 On Commerce is undertaking a major landscape transformation.

Locals are commenting on the huge visual improvement of the site on Commerce Street Whakatane. The site had been vacant for several years hence the landscaping is very welcome to the Whakatane residents.

Blair Dawson, a Whakatane landscape gardener is in charge of the project.The garden covers an area of 700 square meters.

Blair has been living and working in Whakatane for many years.

The brief to Blair was to design a garden fit for purpose that had areas for guests to relax, entertain, play and BBQ. He was keen to create something special that was attractive and functional.

He knows what grows well in the area and has chosen 13 species of hardy plants that are also drought tolerant.

 Blair says “Often Commercial gardens can be thrown together and lack structure and form. Some of the plants will flower providing year round colour which is often lacking in a commercial garden.”

Meanwhile the Construction of the Motel Complex is progressing ahead of schedule and Mark is confident that One88 on Commerce will be open for business at the end of June

Kellie is busy hiring staff and choosing fabrics to complete the interiors. She says there has been a steady stream of enquiry for bookings.

For bookings and more information you can phone Kellie on 022 176 7097 or Mark on 022 175 4503

Or email info@one88oncommerce.co.nz

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Introducing Mark and Kellie Ross and their children Mikaela and Ashton. The Ross family will be your hosts at the soon to be opened 188 on Commerce.

188 on Commerce is Whakatane's newest accommodation option offering 22 superior suites.

Mark, Kellie and the children will be living on site.

The Ross's are owners and are delighted to be managing the business. They will make sure your stay at 188 on Commerce is a memorable one whether it is for a day, a week, or a month.

Mark has been project manager on site throughout the building process. He has paid special attention to all the details involved in making this building work well for all future guests These include sound proofing, new technology, safety, security, and the best fittings and fixtures.

Kellie has been responsible for making sure every suite is fitted out with everything you will need during your stay. Every suite has a super king beds fitted with superior linen and throws and has tasteful comfortable furnishings (you will not want to leave!) Mark and Kellie are confident that they offer you the best accommodation option in town.

The Ross family have been holidaying in Ohope since 2005 and have lived in Ohope for 5 years. They know the area well and all it's attractions. Their knowledge can assist you to find places to dine and enjoy the many activities available in Whakatane and the Eastern Bay of Plenty.

See progress of the build below:

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Opening in mid June this year, 188 on Commerce will be the latest apartment-style accommodation offered in Whakatane, New Zealand's very own sunshine capital. Centrally located in the CBD, 188 on Commerce will provide visitors with a great accommodation option, being a stone's throw from the nearby restaurants and shops. Ohope Beach (voted by AA as NZ's best beach) is only a 5 min drive by car.

Work is well underway for the 22-unit accommodation which will be built to a high quality spec and include spacious rooms with spa baths. A generous communal space will allow guests to relax and enjoy a BBQ in the sun. The build is being overseen by one of the owners, Mark, who is very experienced in the building industry, with a construction background having successfully built 20 motels in his time.

Mark says, "This will be a substantial build and will include an interior fit out by NZ Design who will ensure that the rooms are styled to a high standard and will offer something very special to its guests."

For enquiries, please contact 0221754503. Watch this space for updates.

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