Things to See and Do in Gisborne

Gisborne is a prosperous, vibrant, sunny port city. Gisborne's Waikanae Beach has attracted surfers since the 1960s. Grapes are grown in vast quantities and Gisborne has consistently won awards for some of the best wines in the country. The Tairawhiti Heritage Trails take in many historic sites. Two museums also preserve this region's rich European and Maori cultural heritage with Wyllie Cottage being the oldest surviving European house in Gisborne. The large Olympic pool complex will provide hours of play for the children and a dive pool and other water activities will keep adults challenged. Eastwoodhill Arboretum is home to New Zealand's largest and finest collection of exotic trees and shrubs with walking tracks for all levels of fitness. Vineyard tours are popular, as are the dining venues throughout the city.

Active

Surfing

Gisborne is a top destination for surfers from around the world. A strong swell, consistent winds and wide-open beaches all line up to create some of New Zealand's best breaks.

Railbike Adventures

Experience an amazing new cycling adventure on the very scenic 90 kilometres of coastal railway between Gisborne and Wairoa. A truly unique tandem cycle experience using non-operating railway lines. Sun in your face, wind in your hair, that fresh sea breeze and your favourite person by your side, we invite you to try the great Gisborne Railbike Adventure.

Walking Trails

You can explore anything from sparkling coastal trails to hidden coves, lush bush walks, lofty peaks and historic places – and there's something for all fitness levels. Dig out your walking shoes and experience the incredible diversity of walks we have here in Gisborne.

Sightseeing

National Arboretum of New Zealand

Eastwoodhill, the National Arboretum of New Zealand, has over 131 ha of incredible exotic and native trees and shrubs, beautiful in any season, 25km of walking and hiking trails for all fitness levels, and a children's playground and accommodation.

East Coast Museum of Technology

The East Coast Museum of Technology is owned and operated by a non-profit volunteer organisation. This is an all weather activity and has a varied collection of items that will suit a range of interests. There's always something new to discover! They display and demonstrate historic artifacts from the Tairāwhiti region, showcasing technology and its development relevant to Gisborne and the surrounding area.

Tairāwhiti Museum

The museum and art gallery has a reputation as one of the very best, most innovative regional museums in New Zealand. The museum features hanging exhibitions of regional history, local and national art exhibitions, and a historic cottage and ship to explore. Changing exhibitions of regional history, local and national art exhibitions, and a historic cottage and ship to explore.

Eat and Drink

Vineyard Exploring

Embark on a delightful journey through the vineyards of the Gisborne region, where wine enthusiasts are treated to a symphony of flavours at some of New Zealand's finest wineries. The cellar doors at the boutique wineries dotted throughout the region are open and ready to welcome you for a tasting, a long lunch, and of course to share their love of wine with you!

Must Visit Restaurants

No holiday is complete without treating your tastebuds to some exceptional local cuisine. With incredible seasonal produce and regionally-produced wines served with a side of colourful history, the dining scene in Gisborne is truly one-of-a-kind.

Gisborne Farmers Market

Saturday mornings at the Gisborne Farmers Market is where locals and visitors alike gather to get their fix of the region's tastiest treats. From macadamia nut butters to real raw honey, this is your chance to meet the makers of some finest food and beverage your taste buds will ever know.