Introduction
Gisborne, also known as Tairawhiti in Maori, is a charming city located on the East Coast of the North Island of New Zealand. Famous for being the first city in the world to see the sun each day, Gisborne offers much more than just a beautiful sunrise.
It is a place of rich history, vibrant culture, breathtaking landscapes, and friendly people. If you are planning a visit to Gisborne, New Zealand, here is what you can expect.
- Getting to Gisborne
- Where to Stay in Gisborne
- Top Things to Do in Gisborne
- Soak up the Sun on the Beaches
- Explore the Maori Culture and History
- Visit the Eastwoodhill Arboretum
- Taste the Local Food and Wine
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Getting to Gisborne
Gisborne is accessible by air, road, and rail. The nearest airport is the Gisborne Airport, which offers daily flights from Auckland and Wellington. You can also drive to Gisborne from other cities in New Zealand or take a train from Auckland to Napier and then a bus to Gisborne.
Where to Stay in Gisborne
Gisborne has a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. From luxury hotels and resorts to backpacker hostels and campsites, you can find something that suits your needs.
Some of the popular places to stay in Gisborne include the Emerald Hotel, Marina View Apartments, Teal Motor Lodge, and Waikanae Beach Top 10 Holiday Park.
Top Things to Do in Gisborne
Soak up the Sun on the Beaches: Gisborne is blessed with some of the most beautiful beaches in New Zealand. Whether you want to surf, swim, sunbathe, or simply stroll along the shore, you will find a beach that suits your mood.
Some of the popular beaches in Gisborne are Wainui Beach, Midway Beach, Waikanae Beach, and Tolaga Bay Beach. Check out these New Zealand visa requirements and then you can fill out a New Zealand visa application to get your entry visa.
Explore the Maori Culture and History
Gisborne is home to many Maori tribes, and their cultural heritage is deeply ingrained in the city’s history and lifestyle.
You can visit the Tairawhiti Museum to learn about the region’s Maori and European history, attend a Maori cultural performance at Te Poho-o-Rawiri Marae, or take a guided tour of the nearby Maori pa sites and caves.
Visit the Eastwoodhill Arboretum
If you love nature, don’t miss the chance to visit the Eastwoodhill Arboretum, which is New Zealand’s national arboretum. Spread over 135 hectares, the arboretum is home to more than 4,000 trees and shrubs from around the world, making it a paradise for tree enthusiasts, botanists, and bird watchers.
Taste the Local Food and Wine
Gisborne is known for its fresh and delicious food, especially seafood and fruits. You can try some of the local delicacies, such as crayfish, oysters, pipis, and kiwifruit, at the local restaurants