Gisborne, in the Eastland region, has a special magic to its sunrise, being the most easterly city in the world, it is the first place to greet the sun each morning. Locals recommend Wainui Beach, just a short drive from the city and a favourite s... Show More
Tourist Information About Gisborne
Gisborne, in the Eastland region, has a special magic to its sunrise, being the most easterly city in the world, it is the first place to greet the sun each morning. Locals recommend Wainui Beach, just a short drive from the city and a favourite spot for walking, swimming, surfing, fishing and horse trekking. Gisborne has a comprehensive wine trail leading to boutique wineries and has a reputation for great food, wine and excellent surf beaches. Historically significant, Eastland is the place where the first Polynesian canoes landed, Captain Cook made his first landfall at Kaiti Beach (9 October 1769) and Maori and European first encountered each other.
Best Attractions and free things to do in Gisborne
1. Visit the Tairawhiti Museum
Take a look back at Gisborne's history, from early Polynesian settlers to today's surfing culture. Expect to find treasures and antiques from the Eastland region, as Tairawhiti is the Maori word for Gisborne. The visitor entry charge of NZ$5 is well worth it to see the amazing Maori treasures, walk inside a ship's wheelhouse, and learn about the site where the first Europeans set foot on New Zealand.
2. Explore Wainui Beach and Headlands
Make your journey from Gisborne city to Wainui Beach along the Gisborne-Wainui Beach Cycle Track & Walkway for a full day of on-foot adventure. The picturesque Wainui Beach is around a 40-minute drive away. From Wainui Beach, walk to the old lighthouse on Tuahine Point or continue 3km along the sandy beach to the base of the treks across the Wainui-Makorori peninsula.
3. The Dome Cinema
The Dome Cinema is the model for all theaters! With a beer or wine in hand, unwind in an oversized bean bag or on a sofa. The Dome Cinema, which screens art films from Wednesday to Sunday, is more than just a movie theater. Hang out at their bar and take in the amazing lighting shows; the staff will even assist you in tucking yourself into your beanbag! That's what I call service!
4. Kaiti Hill Lookout
A good view is something that everyone enjoys. The best one in Gisborne may be located on Kaithi Hill. You can either walk or drive up Kaiti Beach Road to the lookout, which is located beside a Captain Cook monument. A number of walks around the Titirangi Domain can be accessed from here.
5. Makorori Beach
Arguably one of the best beaches in the Gisborne area with interesting rock and reef formations at the far end. This secluded bay has lots of parking and a beautiful long stretch of coastline to explore with your friends or family.
6. Watch the first sunrise in the world
If you stay the night in Gisborne, you have no excuse for missing daybreak. It happens every morning, signaling the start of a new day for the rest of the world. It was the city that was carefully followed at the turn of the century, as it was the first spot on the planet to experience the new year.
7. Hand-feed stingrays
Tatapouri is known around the world for its engaging marine experience with stingrays and other sea creatures. Our visitors will learn about the Tamariki (Children) of Tangaroa (the Maori God of the Sea), as well as the local culture and spectacular marine surroundings of Tatapouri on the North Island's East Coast, where the first light strikes our shores.
8. Fish from the pier
Fish off the pier or join one of Gisborne's many fishing tours. Whatever you choose, there are lots of fish to catch and memories to make.
Check out the spectacular catches that line the walls of the Gisborne-Tatapouri Sports Fishing Club if you don't believe me. It's a tasty location for a "locals" dinner if you can find a member to sign you in.
9. Mahia Peninsula
The journey to the beaches is a bit of a trek, but the scenery is breathtaking and the beaches are magnificent.
Around the outskirts of the Mahia Peninsula, you'll enjoy a selection of beaches, including sandy coves, rocky bays, and lengthy stretches of surf coast.
10. Rere rockslide
If you're a thrill-seeker then you'll love this activity. Rere Rock Slide is a 60m rock located 30 minutes from Gisborne where you can slide down a slope with a piece of cardboard or any other substitute. This is a great place for you and your kids to have a good time!
