See the light
Discovering rich heritage and culture in Tairāwhiti Gisborne
From sacred mountains to the shores of the vast Pacific Ocean, Tairāwhiti Gisborne is a stunning and unique corner of Aotearoa ripe for discovery.
In fact, it’s the site where the first Polynesian wakas landed in 1450AD, and where Captain Cook made his first landing 300 years later. Today, Tairāwhiti Gisborne remains a place where New Zealanders of all walks of life can learn about our country’s past and embrace the present.
Embark on your very own voyage of discovery of enticing flavours, unforgettable accommodation, unique activities and memorable events in the Land of the First Light.
Discover tantalising treats
Tairāwhiti Gisborne’s plentiful sunshine makes for a bountiful harvest; the region is rich in produce, which is reflected in the menus of its cafés and restaurants.
- The Works: Housed in a former sausage-making factory, this casual yet elegant spot is a Gizzy institution.
- USSCo Bar and Bistro: Great hospitality and a lively atmosphere characterise this bar and bistro housed in the historic Union Steam Ship Company building.
- Flagship Eatery: Seasonal, sustainable and home-made are the tenets of this homely cafe.
- Dome Bar and Cinema: A charming venue offering good old-fashioned entertainment paired with pizza and beer.
- Gisborne Farmers’ Market: Get your fix of produce straight from the local orchards, vege patches, paddocks and gardens every Saturday in the Old Army Hall carpark.
- Puku Ora Eatery: Delicious smoothie bowls, burgers, nachos, salads and juices.
- Curbside Kitchen: You’ll find sweet treats, coffee and salads at this community-minded cafe.
Snapper ravioli from USSCo. Image credit: Brook Sabin.
Snapper ravioli from USSCo. Image credit: Brook Sabin.
The delicious Eggs Bene at Flagship Eatery.
The delicious Eggs Bene at Flagship Eatery.
Ginger crunch donuts from Curbside Kitchen.
Ginger crunch donuts from Curbside Kitchen.
The Works, image credit: Ellen May Taylor Photography.
The Works, image credit: Ellen May Taylor Photography.
USSCo Bar and Bistro.
USSCo Bar and Bistro.
Discover unforgettable stays
More than just a bed for the night, these places will encourage you to rediscover yourself and what makes this part of the country so special:
- Tatapouri Bay: Luxury Zen Cabins, pods with sea views, cosy log cabins, glamping tents and camping offer something for everyone.
- Matawhero Luxury Cabins: Gorgeous cabins nestled amongst the vines next to a cellar door.
- The Blackhouse: Watch Wainui Beach’s surfers ride the waves beneath you while staying at this secluded luxury lodge.
- Waikanae TOP 10 Holiday Park: The golden sands of Waikanae Beach are a hop, skip and a jump away from this family-friendly spot.
- Portside Hotel HBC: Studio, one and two-bedroom suites with fully-equipped kitchens right by the water’s edge.
- Cedar House: Boutique accommodation in a historic character home a stone’s throw from town.
- Manutuke Eco Retreat: Escape into nature at this eco glamping retreat by the edge of a wetland lake.
Cedar House
Cedar House
Discover rich activities
There is so much to do in Tairāwhiti Gisborne, and the best way to explore is to get outside.
Get up close to stingrays in the wild and learn about the marine life that call the region home on a Reef Ecology Tour with Dive Tatapouri. Gisborne Railbike Adventures’ tandem cycle adventure is a unique way to explore the east coast, or you can jump on a standard bike and go for a leisurely ride along the relatively flat terrain surrounding Gisborne.
Wander around Eastwoodhill Arboretum, a haven for threatened and endangered trees from all over the world, and take a self-guided walk with a historical focus along the Tupapa Heritage Trail. Download the app and start at any point along the trail, discovering Tūranganui-a-Kiwa through the eyes of the first people who lived here.
If the famous sunshine disappears for a short time, head indoors and explore the fascinating exhibitions at the Tairāwhiti Museum.
Discover incredible events
The eastern corner of the North Island is a meeting point for Kiwis around the country who flock here for its many events.
Lovers of fine wine and seafood won’t want to miss the The Chardonnay Affair, a long lunch among the vines at Bushmere Estate accompanied by live music, while the usual Rhythm & Vines crowd will descend on Tairāwhiti over the Easter long weekend for good times and good tunes. Later in the year over Labour Weekend the First Light Wine and Food Festival is a must-add to the calendar for wine lovers which celebrates regional wine, music and cuisine.
On public holidays throughout 2022 it’s all aboard the GCVR Steam Train Excursion, an opportunity to ride a Wa165 locomotive that worked out of the Gisborne rail station in the first half of the 20th century.
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