Things To Do
in Gisborne
Gisborne, New Zealand is a picturesque coastal city on the North Island known for its stunning beaches and relaxed, laid-back atmosphere. It is famous for being the first city in the world to see the sunrise each day. Gisborne is surrounded by beautiful vineyards and is a popular destination for wine enthusiasts.
The city also has a rich Maori cultural heritage and offers a variety of outdoor activities such as surfing, fishing, and hiking.
- "Kia ora" - Hello
- "Haere mai" - Welcome
- "Ka kite" - See you
- "TÄnÄ koe" - Thank you
- "MÄori ora" - Be well
Prices
- š Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- š½ļø Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ā Coffee: $4 - $6
- š Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- š Grocery shopping (per week): $60 - $100
- šļøāāļø Gym Membership: $40 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the beautiful TairÄwhiti Museum to learn about the region's rich history. Enjoy a stroll along the picturesque Wainui Beach afterward.
Visit the iconic East Cape Lighthouse for stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Afterward, stop by a local cafƩ for a taste of regional cuisine.
Head to the Gisborne Farmers' Market for a vibrant atmosphere and fresh produce. Savor dinner at a beachfront restaurant while watching the sunset.
Kick off with a hike at Rere Rockslide and enjoy a thrilling slide down the natural slope. Take in the surrounding waterfalls and native bush.
Head to the nearby Rere Falls for a refreshing swim and a picnic in nature. Bring your camera for some amazing photo opportunities.
Wind down with a drive through the scenic Mahia Peninsula. Capture the breathtaking views and enjoy a relaxed beachside dinner.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural scenery including beaches, forests, and vineyards.
- Mild climate with plenty of sunshine throughout the year.
- Rich Maori culture and heritage.
- Less crowded compared to major cities in New Zealand.
- Affordable cost of living compared to other regions.
- Limited job opportunities in certain industries.
- Access to healthcare facilities may be more limited than in larger cities.
- Public transportation options are not as robust, making a car necessary for many.
- Potential for isolation due to the distance from major urban centers.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger cities.
Best Activities in Gisborne
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy the waves at popular spots like Wainui Beach and Makorori Beach.
Try your hand at fishing off the coast or on the rivers and lakes in the area.
Explore the beautiful landscapes and trails in places like Mount Hikurangi and Rere Falls.
Take a scenic bike ride along the Gisborne Cycleway or through the picturesque countryside.
Tours
Uncover the best of Gisborne with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Gisborne
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of the city, ocean, and surrounding area, perfect for sunrise or sunset photos.
Provides stunning views of Poverty Bay and is a great spot for capturing the coastline and the city.
Ideal for photographing surfers, sunsets, and the beautiful stretch of sandy beach backed by hills.
Food in Gisborne
Gisborne Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Maori method of cooking using heated rocks buried in a pit oven, resulting in succulent, smoky-flavored meats and vegetables. Best enjoyed at cultural events, local Marae, or through specialized tour operators like Waka Tours.
Must-Try!
Paua, a type of abalone, is a local delicacy often served in fritter form, offering a delectable taste of the ocean. Look for these at seafood-focused eateries such as Flagship Eatery and The Rivers.
Gisborne's sunny climate yields exceptional Chardonnay grapes, resulting in world-class wines. To savor the best selections, visit local wineries like Millton Vineyards & Winery and Bushmere Estate.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Gisborne better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Held every Saturday, this market offers a vibrant array of locally grown produce, artisanal products, and ready-to-eat delights like gourmet pies, fresh juices, and ethnic cuisines, making it a food lover's paradise.
A great place to sample diverse street foods including Pacific island specialties like fresh kokoda and mouth-watering hangi, alongside craft stalls showcasing local art and handmade goods.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Gisborne, it is important to show respect for the MÄori culture, such as by acknowledging traditional greetings (kia ora) and being mindful of tapu (sacred) areas.
The locals in Gisborne appreciate friendly and casual interactions, so it is customary to greet people with a smile and engage in polite conversation.
Gisborne residents value their natural surroundings, so it's important to show respect for the environment by disposing of waste responsibly and being mindful of local conservation efforts.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Gisborne with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Gisborne
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Gisborne, New Zealand is not a common practice. It is generally not expected or required to tip at restaurants, cafes, bars, or for services such as taxi rides or haircuts.
In Gisborne, New Zealand, payment for goods and services is commonly made using cash, credit/debit cards, and electronic payment methods. It is important to note that contactless payment methods are widely accepted in many establishments.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Gisborne.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Gisborne, New Zealand is during the summer months when the weather is warm and sunny. This is the peak tourist season, and you can expect crowded beaches, outdoor festivals, and plenty of opportunities for water activities such as swimming, surfing, and fishing.
Autumn in Gisborne brings mild temperatures and beautiful foliage as the leaves change colors. It's a great time to explore the scenic vineyards and enjoy wine tasting tours. The weather is generally pleasant, and the crowds are thinner compared to the summer months.
Winter in Gisborne is mild, and while it may be too chilly for swimming, it's an excellent time for hiking and exploring the nearby hills and forests. The city also hosts various indoor cultural events and art exhibitions during this season.
Spring is a lovely time to visit Gisborne as the landscape bursts into colorful blooms. The weather starts to warm up, and outdoor activities become popular again. It's a great time for nature walks, bird watching, and visiting the farmers' markets for fresh local produce.
Gisborne at Night
Hiking in Gisborne
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A short, scenic track that leads to the stunning Rere Falls, perfect for a refreshing dip.
Offers a range of mountain biking and hiking trails with beautiful views of the Tairawhiti region.
A historical site with a walking track that provides insights into the local MÄori culture and stunning coastal views.
A scenic hike featuring rugged terrain and lush forests, making it ideal for more experienced hikers.
Although primarily an arboretum, it offers several walking paths through a unique collection of trees and beautiful landscapes.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Gisborne through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Gisborne by plane.
The largest and busiest airport in New Zealand, located in Auckland, approximately 600 kilometers from Gisborne.
A major airport serving the capital city of New Zealand, Wellington, located about 450 kilometers southwest of Gisborne.
The main airport serving Christchurch and the South Island of New Zealand, located around 800 kilometers from Gisborne.
An international airport located in Hamilton, approximately 500 kilometers from Gisborne, serving the Waikato region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Gisborne, with a strong European heritage and cultural influence.
The indigenous population of Gisborne, representing a significant and vibrant part of the local culture and community.
Includes people from various Pacific Islands, contributing to the diversity of the region.
A growing demographic group, including individuals from various Asian backgrounds.
Includes individuals from other backgrounds not specifically categorized in the main groups.
The Soul of Gisborne
Discover the essence of Gisborne through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Rugby is a highly popular sport in Gisborne, with a strong community presence and local competitions. The region has produced several notable rugby players.
Cricket enjoys a significant following in Gisborne, with various clubs and teams participating in regional leagues and tournaments.
Netball is a widely played sport among women and girls in Gisborne, with numerous clubs and school teams competing at different levels.
Gisborneās stunning coastline and waves make it a popular destination for surfers, with many local surf schools and competitions.
Football has been growing in popularity in Gisborne, with local clubs and teams for various age groups participating in competitions.
Basketball is played at schools and clubs in Gisborne, with a community that actively supports local tournaments and events.
Field hockey has a dedicated following in Gisborne, with clubs and school teams competing in regional leagues.
Athletics events are popular in Gisborne, with local clubs encouraging participation in track and field competitions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Gisborne.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Gisborne's food scene largely celebrates seafood and meats, many eateries, especially cafes like Flagship Eatery, The Rivers, and the Poverty Bay Club, provide creative and satisfying vegetarian and vegan dishes featuring local produce and flavors.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find accommodating choices at establishments such as Ussco Bar and Bistro, The Marina Restaurant, and The Wharf Shed CafƩ, which offer gluten-free menus or options for a seamless dining experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Gisborne with these cultural adventures.