Did you know Gisborne is the first city in the world to greet the sunrise each day? Its coastal location at 178° east longitude puts it 496 km (308 mi) ahead of Auckland’s dawn. This sun-soaked city on New Zealand’s East Cape isn’t just where each new day begins—it’s where unforgettable adventures start. From world-class surfing and vineyard tours to natural wonders like the Rere Rockslide, Gisborne offers a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement for travelers seeking authentic Kiwi experiences.
Getting to Gisborne & Planning Your Journey
Tucked away on New Zealand’s North Island, Gisborne’s relative isolation is part of its charm. Here’s how to reach this coastal gem:
By Air
The most convenient way to reach Gisborne is by air, with daily flights from Auckland taking approximately 1 hour. Air New Zealand operates regular services to Gisborne Airport (GIS).
Find the Best Flights to Gisborne
Compare prices and book your flights to start your Gisborne adventure.
By Road
If you prefer a scenic drive, Gisborne is accessible by several routes:
- From Auckland: 6-7 hours via SH2 (478 km)
- From Napier: 3 hours via SH2 (214 km)
- From Rotorua: 4.5 hours via SH2 and SH35 (286 km)
The journey through the Waioeka Gorge from the north offers stunning native bush scenery, while the coastal route via East Cape provides breathtaking ocean views (though it takes significantly longer).
By Sea
As a port city, Gisborne occasionally welcomes cruise ships during the summer season.
Explore Cruise Options
Check availability for cruises that include Gisborne in their itinerary.
Best Time to Visit Gisborne & Weather Tips
Recommended Seasons
Summer (December-February)
The ideal time to visit with temperatures ranging from 20-26°C (68-79°F). Perfect for beach activities, surfing, and outdoor adventures. This is high season, so book accommodations in advance.
Autumn (March-May)
A wonderful time to visit with warm days (15-22°C/59-72°F), fewer crowds, and beautiful autumn colors at Eastwoodhill Arboretum. The grape harvest makes this an excellent time for wine enthusiasts.
Seasons to Consider Carefully
Winter (June-August)
Temperatures range from 8-16°C (46-61°F) with increased rainfall. While not ideal for beach activities, winter offers lower accommodation rates and fewer tourists. Some attractions may have limited hours.
Spring (September-November)
A transitional season with temperatures from 12-20°C (54-68°F). Spring brings blooming gardens and newborn lambs in the countryside. Weather can be unpredictable, so pack layers.
Local Tip: Gisborne enjoys approximately 2,200 sunshine hours annually, making it one of New Zealand’s sunniest regions. Even in winter, you’ll likely experience some beautiful clear days!
Getting Around Gisborne
Gisborne’s compact city center is easily navigable on foot, but to explore the surrounding beaches, vineyards, and natural attractions, you’ll need transportation:
Rental Cars
The most flexible option for exploring Gisborne and its surroundings. Several rental agencies operate at Gisborne Airport and in the city center.
Reserve Your Rental Car
Secure the best rates on rental cars for exploring Gisborne and the East Cape.
Public Transport
Gisborne’s public bus service (Gizzy Bus) operates limited routes within the city. Schedules are restricted, so check timetables in advance.
Cycling
Gisborne is relatively flat and has several dedicated cycling paths, making bikes a great option for exploring the city. Several shops offer bicycle rentals by the hour or day.
Taxis and Rideshares
Taxis are available in Gisborne, though they’re less abundant than in larger cities. Uber does not currently operate in Gisborne, but local taxi companies have their own apps.
Where to Stay in Gisborne
Gisborne offers a range of accommodation options to suit various budgets and preferences:
Beachfront Lodges
For the ultimate Gisborne experience, stay at one of the beachfront lodges along Waikanae or Wainui Beach. Wake up to stunning sunrise views and fall asleep to the sound of waves.
Boutique Hotels & B&Bs
Gisborne features several charming boutique hotels and bed & breakfasts, many in historic buildings. These offer personalized service and local insights.
Holiday Parks & Campgrounds
Budget-friendly options include holiday parks and campgrounds, many with excellent facilities and prime locations near beaches or rivers.
Find Your Perfect Gisborne Accommodation
Compare prices and book your stay from a wide range of options.
Dining & Local Cuisine in Gisborne
Gisborne’s food scene celebrates the region’s abundant seafood, fresh produce, and award-winning wines:
Local Specialties
- Seafood – Fresh kaimoana (seafood) features prominently on local menus, including crayfish, green-lipped mussels, and snapper
- Māori-inspired Cuisine – Try traditional hangi (food cooked in an earth oven) or modern Māori fusion dishes
- Gisborne Chardonnay – The region is known as the “Chardonnay Capital of New Zealand”
- Stone Fruits – Locally grown peaches, nectarines, and plums are summer highlights
Must-Visit Food & Drink Spots
Restaurants & Cafés
- The Works – Riverside restaurant with excellent local cuisine
- Crawford Road Kitchen – Popular for breakfast and lunch
- Flagship Eatery – Modern New Zealand cuisine using local ingredients
- PBC (Poverty Bay Club) – Historic venue with great food and atmosphere
Wineries & Breweries
- Matawhero Wines – Award-winning wines in a beautiful setting
- Bushmere Estate – Family-owned winery with excellent tastings
- Sunshine Brewery – Craft beer pioneer operating since 1989
- Gisborne Wine Centre – Sample regional wines in one convenient location
Foodie Tip: The Gisborne Farmers’ Market runs every Saturday morning (9:30am-12:30pm) on Stout Street, offering fresh local produce, artisanal foods, and a vibrant community atmosphere.
Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Gisborne
1. Rere Rockslide
This natural 60-meter water slide is one of Gisborne’s most unique attractions. Located about 50 minutes from the city, the smooth rock face creates a thrilling natural slide. Bring a bodyboard, inflatable mattress, or inner tube for the best experience. The site is free to visit and includes a picnic area.
Book a Guided Tour to Rere Rockslide
Enjoy a hassle-free experience with transportation and equipment provided.
2. Eastwoodhill Arboretum
New Zealand’s National Arboretum boasts the largest collection of Northern Hemisphere trees in the Southern Hemisphere. Covering 135 hectares, it offers beautiful walking trails, picnic spots, and spectacular seasonal colors. Entry costs $15 for adults, with guided tours available.
3. Tairawhiti Museum
Discover Gisborne’s rich cultural heritage at this excellent regional museum. Highlights include Māori artifacts, colonial history exhibits, and the restored Star of Canada shipwreck. Entry is just $5 for adults (free for locals and children under 12).
4. Kaiti Hill (Titirangi Domain)
This significant historical site offers panoramic views of Gisborne and Poverty Bay. It’s where Captain Cook first landed in New Zealand in 1769. A 30-minute walk takes you to the summit, or you can drive to the top. Don’t miss the Cook Monument and various lookout points.
5. Tolaga Bay Wharf
Take a day trip to this historic 660-meter wharf, one of the longest in New Zealand. Located 45 minutes north of Gisborne, it’s perfect for fishing, photography, or a scenic stroll. Combine with a visit to Cook’s Cove Walkway for a full day of exploration.
Gisborne’s Best Beaches & Surfing Spots
Gisborne is renowned for its excellent beaches and world-class surf breaks:
Waikanae Beach
The main town beach offers gentle waves perfect for swimming and beginner surfers. Facilities include a playground, cafés, and public toilets. Lifeguards patrol during summer months.
Midway Beach
Adjacent to Waikanae, this long stretch of sand hosts many surfing competitions. The Midway Surf Life Saving Club provides a safe swimming environment during summer.
Wainui Beach
Gisborne’s premier surf beach, located 10 minutes from town. Multiple breaks cater to different skill levels. The northern end (Stockroute) is best for beginners, while the southern end offers more challenging waves.
Learn to Surf
Several surf schools operate in Gisborne, offering lessons for all ages and abilities:
- Walking on Water Surf School – Group lessons from $65 per person
- Gisborne Surf School – Private and group options available
- Salt Surf School – Specializes in beginner-friendly instruction
Book a Surf Lesson
Catch your first wave with professional instruction on Gisborne’s perfect learning beaches.
Beach Safety Tip: Always swim between the red and yellow flags on patrolled beaches. Gisborne’s beaches can have strong rips and currents, so exercise caution when swimming or surfing.
Unique Gisborne Experiences
1. Feed Wild Stingrays at Dive Tatapouri
One of Gisborne’s most extraordinary experiences involves wading into shallow reef waters to hand-feed wild stingrays and eagle rays. This guided eco-tour teaches you about marine conservation while providing an unforgettable wildlife encounter. Tours run according to tide times and cost approximately $55-65 per adult.
Reserve Your Stingray Experience
Spaces are limited and subject to tides – book in advance to secure your spot.
2. Witness the First Sunrise
Experience the magic of being among the first people in the world to see the new day dawn. Head to Wainui Beach or the East Cape Lighthouse (about 2 hours from Gisborne) for the most easterly sunrise views. This free activity is worth the early wake-up call.
3. Gisborne Railbike Adventure
Pedal custom-built railbikes along disused railway tracks through stunning coastal and rural scenery. This unique activity requires no balancing skills – just pedal power! Tours start from $52 per person and must be booked in advance.
4. Wine Tasting Tour
Explore Gisborne’s renowned wineries on a guided tour. Sample award-winning Chardonnay, Gewürztraminer, and other varieties while learning about the region’s unique terroir. Half-day tours typically include 3-4 wineries and cost $120-180 per person.
Cultural Experiences & Māori Heritage
Gisborne (Tūranga-nui-a-Kiwa in Māori) holds profound significance in New Zealand’s cultural history as both the first landing place of Māori waka (canoes) and Captain Cook’s initial arrival:
Historical Sites
- Te Poho-o-Rawiri Marae – One of the largest and most ornately carved meeting houses in New Zealand
- Young Nick’s Head (Te Kuri a Paoa) – The first land sighted by Europeans in 1769
- Kaiti Beach – Site of Captain Cook’s first landing in New Zealand
- Toko Toru Tapu Church – Historic church with beautiful stained glass windows
Cultural Experiences
Several operators offer authentic Māori cultural experiences:
Guided Cultural Tours
Learn about Gisborne’s rich Māori heritage through guided tours that share stories, traditions, and historical sites significant to local iwi (tribes).
Traditional Performances
Experience powerful kapa haka (traditional performing arts) showcasing waiata (songs), haka, and poi demonstrations that bring Māori culture to life.
Discover Māori Culture
Book a guided cultural experience to learn about Gisborne’s rich indigenous heritage.
Outdoor Adventures & Nature Experiences
Beyond beaches and wineries, Gisborne offers numerous opportunities to connect with nature:
Walking & Hiking Trails
- Gray’s Bush Scenic Reserve – Easy 15-60 minute walks through rare lowland forest with 400-500 year old trees
- Te Kuri Farm Walkway – 2-3 hour loop (5.6km) with panoramic rural and coastal views
- Cooks Cove Walkway – 5.8km return track near Tolaga Bay with historical significance and stunning coastal scenery
- Okitu Bush Walkway – Short bush track across from Makorori Beach
Water Activities
Take advantage of Gisborne’s rivers and coastline with these water-based adventures:
Kayaking & SUP
Rent kayaks or stand-up paddleboards to explore the Taruheru, Waimata, and Turanganui rivers that flow through Gisborne. Guided tours available.
Fishing
Try your luck fishing from Tatapouri Wharf, Tolaga Bay Wharf, or join a chartered fishing trip for snapper, kingfish, and other species.
Mountain Biking
The Whataupoko Mountain Bike Park offers 7km of trails suitable for various skill levels, just minutes from downtown Gisborne. Bike rentals available from local shops.
Festivals & Events in Gisborne
Gisborne hosts several notable events throughout the year:
Rhythm and Vines (December)
New Zealand’s premier music festival welcomes the first sunrise of the new year. This three-day event attracts thousands of visitors with international and local artists performing at Waiohika Estate vineyard.
Gisborne Wine & Food Festival (March)
Celebrate the region’s culinary delights and award-winning wines at this popular festival featuring local producers, chef demonstrations, and live entertainment.
First Light Wine & Food Festival (October)
Sample wines from multiple Gisborne wineries alongside gourmet food from local vendors. Live music and a festive atmosphere make this a highlight of the spring calendar.
Planning Tip: If you’re visiting during a major festival like Rhythm and Vines, book accommodation well in advance (6+ months) as Gisborne fills up quickly.
Practical Travel Tips for Gisborne
Safety Tips
- Sun Protection – New Zealand’s UV rays are intense. Wear sunscreen (SPF 30+), a hat, and sunglasses, even on cloudy days
- Water Safety – Swim between the flags at patrolled beaches and be aware of rip currents
- Road Safety – Drive on the left side of the road. Rural roads around Gisborne can be winding and narrow
- Emergency Number – Dial 111 for police, fire, or ambulance services
Local Etiquette
- Māori Protocol – Remove shoes before entering a marae (meeting ground) and follow the guidance of your hosts
- Tipping – Not expected in New Zealand, though appreciated for exceptional service
- Conservation – Follow the “Leave No Trace” principle when visiting natural areas
- Greetings – A friendly “Kia ora” (hello) is widely used throughout New Zealand
Essential Information
Money
ATMs are available in Gisborne’s city center. Credit cards are widely accepted, though some smaller businesses may be cash-only. The currency is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD).
Internet & Mobile
Free WiFi is available at the Gisborne Library, i-SITE visitor center, and many cafés. Mobile coverage is good in Gisborne city but can be patchy in rural areas.
Opening Hours
Most shops open 9am-5pm Monday-Friday and 9am-3pm Saturday. Supermarkets have extended hours. Many attractions close during winter months or have reduced hours.
Plan Your Gisborne Adventure
Ready to experience the first light city? Here’s everything you need to plan your perfect Gisborne getaway:
Complete Gisborne Travel Package
Book all your travel essentials in one place for a seamless experience.
Suggested Itineraries
Weekend Escape (2-3 Days)
- Day 1: Explore city beaches, visit Tairawhiti Museum, enjoy dinner at a waterfront restaurant
- Day 2: Morning surf lesson, afternoon wine tasting, sunset at Kaiti Hill
- Day 3: Early sunrise viewing, visit Rere Rockslide and Falls
Extended Stay (5-7 Days)
- Days 1-2: City exploration and beaches
- Day 3: Winery tour and Eastwoodhill Arboretum
- Day 4: Stingray experience and Tatapouri Beach
- Day 5: Day trip to Tolaga Bay and Cook’s Cove
- Days 6-7: Hiking, mountain biking, or relaxing at favorite spots
Experience the Magic of Gisborne
Gisborne isn’t just where the day begins—it’s where unforgettable adventures start. From surfing perfect waves and sliding down natural rock formations to sampling world-class wines and connecting with Māori culture, this sun-soaked coastal gem offers experiences you won’t find anywhere else in New Zealand. Whether you’re chasing the first sunrise, seeking outdoor thrills, or simply looking to unwind on golden beaches, Gisborne welcomes you with warm hospitality and authentic Kiwi charm. Pack your sense of adventure and prepare to fall in love with the East Cape’s hidden treasure. The question isn’t whether you should visit Gisborne—it’s how soon you can get there.
The above is subject to change.
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