Gisborne region - New Zealand Free Travel (NZROUTE)

Overview

Gisborne Region is located on the east coast of New Zealand's North Island and is famous for being the first place in New Zealand to greet the sunrise. This area has a rich Māori culture and a history of early European exploration, and it is known for New Zealand's coastline and wineries. It is a place where viticulture and fruit farming have developed, making it popular among wine enthusiasts, and its relaxed beaches and beautiful natural scenery attract many tourists.

Features

Sunrise Areas of New Zealand

Gisborne is one of the first places on Earth where the sun rises, attracting many visitors to enjoy the sunrise. Especially in summer, tourists flock to Gisborne to witness the first sunrise of the New Year.
Wines and Wineries

Gisborne is one of New Zealand's important wine-producing regions, particularly famous for its Chardonnay and Pinot Gris varieties. The wineries here produce unique wines, and winery tours and wine tastings are very popular.
Rich Māori Culture and History

Gisborne is a region deeply rooted in Māori culture, with well-preserved Māori tribes and cultural heritage. Māori legends and historical sites are scattered throughout the area, providing many opportunities to experience traditional Māori arts and lifestyles.
First Arrival Point of European Exploration

Gisborne is also the place where British explorer Captain James Cook first arrived in New Zealand in 1769. His first landing site is now the village of Kaiti in Gisborne, where monuments honoring the history of exploration are established throughout the region.

Major Cities

Gisborne

Gisborne is the main city of the Gisborne region and the easternmost city in New Zealand. As a coastal city, Gisborne is regarded as a great place to live due to its relaxed atmosphere and warm climate, with well-developed winery and beach culture. Gisborne is a popular destination for tourists looking to enjoy the beach at sunrise.
Tolaga Bay

A small coastal village that is home to the longest wharf in New Zealand, Tolaga Bay Wharf. This village is famous for its marine sports and fishing, allowing visitors to experience local life in a peaceful setting.
Te Puia Springs

A village steeped in Maori legends related to natural hot springs, famous for its beautiful hot springs and surrounding natural environment. At Te Puia Springs, you can relax with a soak in the hot springs.

Attractions

Sunrise Spot – Titirangi Hill

A hill close to Gisborne city, it is a great place to enjoy the first sunrise in New Zealand. From the top of this hill, you can overlook the coastline and cityscape of Gisborne, making it a popular spot for photography.
Cook Monument

A monument located in the nearby village of Kaiti, commemorating the place where Captain James Cook first arrived in New Zealand. Here, you can reflect on Captain Cook's history and the European exploration era of New Zealand.
Tolaga Bay Wharf

The longest wharf in New Zealand, extending out to sea and providing a unique landscape. It is a popular spot for fishing and water sports, and the sunset viewed from the end of the wharf is very beautiful.
Richmond Road Wineries

Gisborne is one of New Zealand's wine regions, with various wineries located on Richmond Road. You can taste Gisborne wines famous for Chardonnay and Pinot Gris, and enjoy winery tours.
Eastwoodhill Arboretum

One of the largest arboretums in New Zealand, featuring a harmonious collection of various trees and plants. This place boasts different landscapes in each season and is a great spot for a healing walk in nature.
Gisborne Railbike Adventure

A unique tourist attraction in Gisborne, where you can experience riding a railbike along an old railway track while pedaling. It’s a fun activity to enjoy while taking in the scenery, especially popular among families.
Wainui Beach

A popular beach close to Gisborne, characterized by its clean white sand and clear water. It is great for surfing and beach walks, and during summer, it gets crowded with people enjoying swimming.
Ruatorea

A small village deeply rooted in Māori traditional culture, where you can experience the arts and traditional lifestyles of the Māori tribes. Here, you can learn about Māori traditions and myths, and experience Māori hospitality.

Cities and Towns

Gisborne

Tolaga Bay

Te Puia Springs

Ruatoria