Things To Do in Gisborne of New Zealand

Name: Things To Do in Gisborne of New Zealand | See and Do NZ
Uploaded: 2021-07-01T08:00:00+08:00
Description: 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, jus

Frequently Asked Questions about Gisborne

Where is Gisborne located?

Gisborne is located on the northeast coast of New Zealands North Island.

How far is Gisborne from Auckland?

Gisborne is approximately 480 km southeast of Auckland, about a 6–7 hour drive.

What is Gisborne best known for?

Gisborne, located on the East Coast of New Zealands North Island, is a place of significant "firsts." It is most famously known for its unique geographic position, its historical significance as a meeting point of cultures, and its world-class wine.

What are the top attractions in Gisborne?

Some of the top attractions in Gisborne include the Sunrise Tour – Te Urunga-Tu, where visitors can experience the region’s famous early morning views, and the Haramai Day Tour, which offers a full-day exploration of Gisborne’s scenic and cultural highlights.

Can I fly directly to Gisborne from Christchurch or Queenstown?

No, there are no direct flights from the South Island. All flights to Gisborne (operated by Air New Zealand) connect via Auckland or Wellington. Flight times are approximately 1 hour from Auckland and 1 hour from Wellington.

What are the must-see attractions in the Gisborne region?

Must-see attractions include:

Tairāwhiti Museum

Gisborne Wine Region

Maketu Beach & Midway Beach

Tolaga Bay Wharf

Is Gisborne worth visiting for tourists?

Yes, it offers a unique mix of Māori culture, world-class chardonnays, and being the first city to see the sun rise.

How many days should I spend in Gisborne?

To get the most out of your visit, the ideal time to spend in Gisborne is 2 to 3 days for the city and its immediate highlights, or 5 days if you plan to explore the rugged and beautiful East Cape (State Highway 35).

What is the weather like in Gisborne?

Gisborne has a mild, temperate climate with plenty of sunshine. Summers are warm, winters are mild, and rainfall is moderate throughout the year.

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!