Tairāwhiti Gisborne

The world’s most eastern city

THERE ARE ONLY THREE THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT GISBORNE – THERE’S SEA, SURF AND CHARDONNAY.

If that isn’t a trio that incites a good time, then we don’t know what is. Welcome to an area of New Zealand with serious chill factor. Both the first Polynesian canoes and Captain Cook landed here, having evidently observed a bounty of treasure on the horizon. They weren’t wrong. From its long stretches of golden sand, rocky headland and plentiful seafood, Gisborne was, and still is, a jackpot region.

Gisborne soils grow the country’s best chardonnay, as well as a decent drop of Gewürztraminer and pinot gris. Arguably the nation’s best surf spots freckle the shoreline, too. Diehard surfers will already know the thrills found along the coast, and there are plenty of calm waves for beginners to give it a whirl.

Most people know that this eastern stretch of coastline is the first place on earth to sea sunrise, but Gisborne is also full of the unexpected. From tandem rail biking to stingray feeding and natural rockslides, read on for the full low-down on every surprise.

Māori carving

Bay of Plenty Tourism

Road Less Travelled EAST CAPE

Ōpotiki, the gateway to East Cape, has long, unspoiled beaches to wander, forests to explore and rivers to ride. The pretty town’s main street is decorated with the work of Māori master carvers.

Activities centre around the water with good rafting, jet boating, kayaking, surfing, swimming and fishing. Enjoy good cycling on the Motu Trails, one of the Great Rides. The Dunes Trail is a 10km ride along the coastline.

Hukutaia Domain has a fine collection of native plants including a 2500-year old sacred pūriri tree. Ōpotiki also offers easy access to Te Urewera’s remote, rugged, forest terrain. Visit Lake Waikaremoana – there’s a four day hiking trail around the water’s edge for the adventurous.

Te Kaha has glorious beaches and bays, perfect for swimming, while Whanarua Bay, with its tranquil beaches and rocky outcrops, is considered to be the prettiest bay of the lot.

As one of the first places for Māori settlers, Ōpotiki's carvings will give you a feel for the history. Book a guided walk with an historian for deeper insight.

Home Bay, Lake Waikaremoana

Kerry Fox

ABOVE MAIN IMAGE: Mahia Bay © Getty

Looking for a place to stay? Find a huge range of accommodation options, including discounts for AA Members, at travel.aa.co.nz/Hotels