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

1. Sunrise Spot in New Zealand

   Gisborne is one of the places on Earth where the sun rises first, attracting many visitors to watch the sunrise. Especially in summer, tourists visit Gisborne to see the first sunrise of the New Year.

2. Wine and Wineries

   Gisborne is one of New Zealand's important wine-producing regions, especially famous for Chardonnay and Pinot Gris varieties. The wineries here produce unique wines, and winery tours and wine tasting are popular.

3. Rich Maori Culture and History

   Gisborne is a region deeply rooted in Maori culture, with Maori tribes and cultural heritage well preserved. Maori legends and historical sites remain throughout the area, offering many opportunities to experience traditional Maori arts and lifestyle.

4. First Landing Place of European Exploration

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

1. Gisborne

   Gisborne is the central 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.

2. Tolaga Bay

   A small coastal village home to Tolaga Bay Wharf, the longest wharf in New Zealand. This village is famous for marine sports and fishing, offering a peaceful atmosphere where visitors can experience local life.

3. Te Puia Springs

   A village imbued with Maori legends related to natural hot springs, known for its beautiful hot springs and surrounding natural environment. At Te Puia Springs, you can relax through hot spring bathing.

1. Sunrise Spot – Titirangi Hill

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

2. Cook Monument

   A monument located in the nearby Kitty village of Gisborne, commemorating Captain James Cook’s first arrival in New Zealand. Here, you can reflect on Cook’s history and the European exploration era in New Zealand.

3. Tolaga Bay Wharf

   The longest pier in New Zealand, extending far out into the sea and offering a unique landscape. It is popular among fishing and marine sports enthusiasts, and the sunset viewed from the end of the wharf is very beautiful.

4. Richmond Road Wineries

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

5. Eastwoodhill Arboretum

   One of the largest arboretums in New Zealand, home to a harmonious collection of various trees and plants. It boasts different scenery in each season and is a great place to enjoy a healing walk in nature.

6. Gisborne Railbike Adventure

   A unique tourist attraction in Gisborne, where you can experience railbiking by pedaling along an old railway line. It is a distinctive activity to enjoy the scenery and is especially popular among family travelers.

7. Wainui Beach

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

8. Ruatorea

   A region deeply rooted in Maori traditional culture, it is a small village where you can experience Maori tribal art and traditional lifestyles. Here, you can learn Maori traditions and myths and experience Maori hospitality.