Gisborne - Discovering New Zealand

Travelling to Gisborne

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Gisborne, a pretty good destination in New Zealand (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Gisborne and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Gisborne, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through New Zealand, here's everything to know about Gisborne for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Gisborne

Gisborne is a charming coastal city located on the northeastern coast of New Zealand's North Island. It is known as the first city in the world to see the sunrise each day. The city has a rich Maori cultural heritage and is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, including white sand beaches, vineyards, and lush green hills. Gisborne is also home to the Tairawhiti Museum, which showcases the region's rich history, culture, and art. Popular outdoor activities in and around Gisborne include surfing, fishing, hiking, and wine tasting.

What to visit in Gisborne

Here are some of the most popular tourist attractions in Gisborne, New Zealand, along with some information about each of them: 1. Eastwoodhill Arboretum: This is a beautiful arboretum that covers more than 130 hectares and is home to a wide variety of trees and plants from all over the world. Visitors can take guided tours or explore the grounds on their own. There are also picnic areas, camping grounds, and a gift shop on site.
2. Tairawhiti Museum: Located in the heart of Gisborne, this museum is dedicated to preserving the cultural heritage of the region. It has a variety of exhibits, including Maori artifacts, art, and history displays. There is also a gift shop on site.
3. Titirangi Reserve: This reserve is known for its stunning views of the Gisborne coastline and is a great place for hiking and picnicking. Visitors can also explore the historic Cook Landing Site, which marks the spot where Captain Cook first landed in New Zealand.
4. Wainui Beach: This is one of the most popular beaches in the Gisborne area and is known for its long stretch of white sand and great surf. It's a great place for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing.
5. Te Poho-o-Rawiri Marae: This is a Maori meeting house and cultural center that provides visitors with an opportunity to learn about Maori culture and customs. It is open to the public for tours and events.
6. Rere Rockslide: This natural water slide is located about 50 km from Gisborne and is a popular spot for both locals and tourists. Visitors can slide down the smooth rocks into a deep pool of water below.
7. Kaiti Hill: This hill offers panoramic views of Gisborne and the surrounding area, as well as a variety of walking trails. At the top of the hill is a statue of Captain Cook, as well as a historic signal station.
These are just a few of the many tourist attractions that Gisborne has to offer.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in New Zealand, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Gisborne.

When to go on holiday to Gisborne

The best time to visit Gisborne, New Zealand is in the summer months, which are from December to February. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, making it perfect for outdoor activities such as swimming, surfing, and hiking. The average temperature during this time is around 24°C (75°F). However, it is also peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and more crowds. If you prefer fewer crowds and lower prices, you can visit in the shoulder seasons of spring (September to November) or fall (March to May). The weather is still relatively mild during these times, but there may be the occasional rain shower.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Gisborne

There are a few options to get to Gisborne: 1. By plane: Gisborne has a regional airport, which is served by Air New Zealand. You can fly from Auckland or Wellington directly to Gisborne.
2. By car: Gisborne is located on the east coast of the North Island of New Zealand. You can drive to Gisborne from other parts of the North Island by taking State Highway 2.
3. By bus: There are several bus companies that offer services to Gisborne, including InterCity and Naked Bus. You can catch a bus to Gisborne from Auckland, Hamilton, Rotorua, or Napier.
4. By train: Although there is no train station in Gisborne, you can take the train to nearby cities such as Napier or Palmerston North and then transfer to a bus to reach Gisborne.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Gisborne, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Gisborne

Sure, here are some typical foods of Gisborne, New Zealand with a brief description of each: 1. Maori Hangi - A traditional Maori meal cooked in an earth oven, consisting of meat (usually chicken, pork, or lamb) and vegetables (such as kumara, potatoes, and pumpkin) that are slow-cooked to perfection. 2. Paua - A type of shellfish found in the waters surrounding Gisborne, also known as abalone. It is often served grilled or fried and used in soups, stews, and curries.
3. Kiwi Burger - A classic New Zealand burger with beef, cheese, lettuce, tomato, beetroot, egg, and mayo or tomato sauce, named after the national bird of New Zealand, the Kiwi.
4. Whitebait - A type of small fish, usually served as fritters or patties and often accompanied with lemon and bread.
5. L&P - A popular New Zealand soft drink, originally created in the town of Paeroa. It has a lemony flavor and is often described as a "taste of summer." 6. Hokey Pokey Ice Cream - A classic New Zealand flavor of ice cream consisting of vanilla ice cream with pieces of honeycomb toffee.
7. Gisborne Chardonnay - Gisborne is known for producing excellent Chardonnay wine, which is often served with seafood or chicken dishes.
I hope this helps you plan your trip to Gisborne!
You can find general info about typical foods in New Zealand here.

Is Gisborne an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other destinations in New Zealand, Gisborne is generally considered to be an affordable place to visit. However, prices may vary depending on the time of year you plan to visit and the activities you plan to do. Generally, accommodation and food costs are lower compared to other major tourist destinations in the country. It's also worth noting that the popular summer season may see an increase in accommodation prices. However, there are still plenty of budget-friendly options available, such as backpackers and holiday parks. Overall, while Gisborne may not be the cheapest destination in New Zealand, it's definitely not the most expensive either.

Where to find accomodation in Gisborne

The best areas to find accommodations in Gisborne, New Zealand, are usually close to the beach or the city center. Specifically, popular areas include Waikanae Beach, Wainui Beach, Inner Harbour, and Kaiti. Waikanae Beach and Wainui Beach are ideal for those who want to stay near the coast and enjoy water activities such as swimming, surfing, or fishing. Meanwhile, Inner Harbour and Kaiti are great if you wish to explore the city's attractions, such as the Tairawhiti Museum, Te Tauihu Turanganui-a-Kiwa, or Captain Cook's Landing Site. Ultimately, it depends on your personal preferences and activities planned during your trip.
You can check hotel prices at Gisborne here:
Booking.com

Is Gisborne a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Gisborne is generally considered a safe place for tourists. As with any destination, it is always advisable to take basic safety precautions such as being aware of your surroundings and keeping your belongings secure. It is also recommended to follow any local customs and laws, and to consult with local authorities or travel experts if you have any concerns about safety. That being said, Gisborne is a popular destination for travelers, and it offers many attractions and activities that are sure to make your trip enjoyable and memorable.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in New Zealand here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Gisborne.

What type of travelers will enjoy Gisborne the most?

Gisborne, New Zealand is a versatile destination that can be enjoyed by a variety of travelers. Here are some recommendations: 1. Couples - Couples will enjoy the unique experiences in Gisborne, such as visiting the Eastwoodhill Arboretum, taking a wine tour of the region, and walking along the beautiful beaches. Gisborne is also known for its spectacular sunrises, which make for a romantic start to any day.
2. Young people - Gisborne is a vibrant town with a thriving music scene and plenty of outdoor activities like surfing, hiking, and biking. Young travelers will love the laid-back vibe, live music events and festivals, and the many bars and restaurants.
3. Families - Gisborne offers plenty of family-friendly activities such as swimming, fishing, visiting Kaiti Hill Lookout, exploring the historic Captain Cook's Landing Site, or taking a day trip to Rere Rockslide.
Overall, Gisborne is a destination that offers something for everyone, so it's up to each traveler's personal preferences and interests to decide if it's the right fit for them.

How to get around Gisborne

In Gisborne, you can use several modes of transportation to move around, including rental cars, taxis, buses, cycling, and walking. Car rental is the most convenient option, giving you more freedom to explore the region. Taxis are a bit expensive but are suitable for short trips. Cycling and walking are great for exploring the city center. Gisborne also has a bus service network that connects the city center with the suburbs and nearby attractions.

What to see around Gisborne

Certainly, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Gisborne, New Zealand: 1. Waihirere Falls: A scenic waterfall in the Gisborne region that is perfect for a hiking or picnic day trip.
2. Waerenga-o-Kuri: A beautiful and secluded beach that offers great surf and swimming opportunities. It is about 30 minutes drive from Gisborne.
3. Rere Rockslide: It is a popular attraction amongst tourists, the rockslide is a natural occurrence that consists of a smooth rock face that creates a natural waterslide along with some nearby waterfalls.
4. Eastwoodhill Arboretum: Famous for its diversity of trees and native New Zealand flora garden, the Eastwood Hill Arboretum is a great place to explore different species of plants and enjoy its serene environment.
5. Tolaga Bay: One of the best-kept secrets of the Gisborne region, Tolaga Bay is a gorgeous and tranquil beach that is perfect for a day trip, especially for swimming and picnics.
6. Mount Hikurangi: Located in the northern part of Gisborne, Mount Hikurangi is a great hiking option if you're into taking scenic long walks or hiking.
I hope this information helps.
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