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East Cape Must-Do's
Quality Beaches Togs On!
There are plenty of swimming spots along the East Cape, including Oruaiti Beach and Lottin Point for snorkelling. Sleep right on the beach at Maraehako Camping Ground, where you can also light a fire under the night sky.
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The First Sunrise
Mt Hikurangi is the first place on the planet to welcome a new day. The full summit hike is a seven-hour one-way walk for seasoned trampers. There’s a DOC hut on the track. Hosted tours are another option.
Hicks Bay
This remote bay is etched with the remains of several pā and steeped in Māori history. Visit the old wharf at nearby Onepoto Bay for a stunning lick of sand and inviting water.
Tour the Sculptures with Maunga Hikurangi
Conquer the highest peak in the Raukumara Range. Two thirds of the way up, nine elevated whakairo (Māori carvings) stand before the landscape. Depicting Māui and his whānau. Book your tour at maungahikurangi.com
East Cape Lighthouse
East Cape Lighthouse © Tairāwhiti Gisborne
Straddling Otiki Hill above East Cape, which happens to be the North Island’s easternmost point, catching sunrise here is pure magic. Even if there are 700 steps to reach its 154m-high placement. From Te Araroa, the coastal drive to get to the lighthouse is also a belter.
Tikitiki Church
St Mary’s is a beautiful Māori themed wooden church with traditional carvings and stained glass. The whakairo (carvings) are nothing shy of a masterpiece and a real thing of beauty.
