Gisborne and surrounds are blessed with an abundance of natural beauty – but sometimes just looking isn’t enough.Here’s some hands-on adventures you can have:
Dive Tatapouri
No need for lengthy accreditations or scuba gear here (unless that’s your thing) – in this family friendly adventure you can pop on a pair of waders (provided as part of the tour) and walk out on to the reef, where you can hand feed sting rays, eagle rays and other reef creatures. In the “Reef Ecology” tour you’ll see penguin habitats and learn all about the “children of Tangaroa” (the sea). Truly an unforgettable experience.
Fly Fishing
A day amongst beautiful scenery away from all the other tourists that ends with a delicious fish dinner? If that sounds like your idea of a good time, then treat yourself to a fly fishing expedition. Our pick is Tony (“Bones”) Murphy’s guided expeditions, or Darcy Hamilton for larger groups. You can trek in via Helicopter, ATV or 4WD depending on your budget and love of bumpy rides, and then the fun can really start. With an expert, much of the guesswork is taken out of the equation making it far more likely you’ll have success in bringing in some trout. There are cosy cabins on the Ruakituri River so you can make a weekend of it, – or if camping is more your style there’s plenty of options for that too.
WOW Surf School
Gisborne is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world – and they’re famous for their surf. There’s no better place to learn to surf and there are plenty of people willing to teach. Our pick is the “Walking on Water” WOW Surf School, which have a wide range of classes for all ages and levels of experience. They even have a “surf photography” course where you can hire an underwater camera and get some epic snaps of your on-board triumph.
Rere Rockslide
Take the opportunity to get off the beaten track and visit nature’s “slip and slide” at Rere Falls. A 60 metre long natural waterslide awaits you, so grab a boogie board, inflatable mattress or inner tube and get ready for a wild and wet adventure. Nestled in the heart of the Eastwoodhill Arboretum there’s picnic grounds and a swimming hole to relax in once you’ve had your fill of adrenaline for the day.
Morere Hot Springs
After all that, you’re going to need some rest and relaxation – so head to the hot springs. One of the most gorgeous options out of Gisborne is the Morere Hot Springs – hot and cool springs in 364 hectares of rainforest. These seawater springs are known for their therapeutic effects, and the relaxation afforded by a soak can’t be denied. There are lodges and cabins on site too, just perfect for a weekend getaway full of pampering.
