Once you’ve touched down atGisborne Airport, you are moments away from idyllic beaches, richMāori culture and world-class food and wine. The dry sunny summer climate and scenic coast locationmakesGisborne a fantastic place for surf andsunbaking enthusiasts.
Perched on the eastern coast of New Zealand’s North Island, Gisborne is a fantastic spot to start a New Zealand road trip. Hiring a car when you touch down will allow you to explore this delightful town and the greater eastern coast of New Zealand with ease.
Gisborne, due to the Earth’s tilt, is widely known in its summer months as the first city to see the sun each day. In fact, Gisborne is located in the Tairāwhiti region, which in Māori, translates as "the coast upon which the sun shines across the water". And boy, do people take advantage of that. Beautiful beaches litter the coast of the town, with locals and tourists alike spending their days enjoying the sand and the surf. Popular beaches include Makorori Beach, with its sprawling picnic areas and rock pools to explore in the warmer months, and Sponge Bay, good for surfing and swimming.
For a glimpse into Māori culture and the history of the region, Gisborne has plenty to offer. The Tairawhiti Museum on Stout Street presents an overview of the local area’s history, and displays historical pieces such as Māori weapons. Titirangi (Kaiti) Hill is a great spot to visit for a scenic view over the city, but is also very culturally significant. From the 14th century, Māori villagers would build pā (villages or defensive settlements) on the hilltops of the North Island, and there are still pā buried underground at Kaiti Hill. Kaiti Hill also has significance from the time of European settlement, the base of the hill being the place where Captain James Cook first came ashore in New Zealand.
If you’ve explored everything Gisborne has to offer, why not hop in your hire car and take a road trip? Travel along Whangara Road on the east coast and you’ll come across quaint towns and beautiful beaches.
- Wainui Beach: A quick ten minute drive out of Gisborne will lead you to Wainui Beach, a popular surf beach with locals and tourists alike. The beach is patrolled by lifesavers, so feel free to have a swim or relax by the dunes. Activities such as kayaking and horse riding are permitted, and are available via private vendors.
- Tolaga Bay: A 40-minute drive north of Wainui Beach, the township of Tolaga Bay is the perfect spot to relax. Whether you’re fishing out on the historic wharf, relaxing out by the stunning teal water, or enjoying a snack from one the local bakeries, Tolaga Bay is a great spot to stretch your legs.
- Tokomaru Bay: Another 30-minutes north of Tolaga Bay, Tokomaru Bay features eight kilometres of pristine coastline. Stop off at the Te Puka Tavern and reward yourself with a meal of fresh fish after your long day of exploring.
- Te Puia Springs: If you still have more of a drive in you, a quick trip to Te Puia Springs is a must. The village has natural springs running through it, and local folklore states that these have healing powers. A dip in the hot springs will rejuvenate you for your trip back to Gisborne.
