Gisborne & Eastland

Feel the very essence of New Zealand in a charming and unspoilt part of the country where vineyards cloak the hills and white-sand beaches beckon.

Eastland rewards visitors with a taste of soothingly slow-paced life. Where barefoot children ride two-up on ponies down country lanes and marae (meeting houses) provide a focal point for communities, Eastland offers an unpackaged glimpse into Maori culture. Journey with a Maori guide to the top of a sacred mountain to watch the sunrise for an unforgettable experience. But don’t think you’ll be leaving contemporary comforts behind – Eastland’s sophisticated side is evident in vineyards producing New Zealand’s best Chardonnay and in the main centre, Gisborne, café and surf culture blend.

DO IT. Watch the sunrise from Mt Hikurangi, follow the Tairawhiti Heritage Trail, eyeball sharks from a shark cage, see Maori artefacts at Tairawhiti Museum, hike in Te Urewera National Park, celebrate New Year’s Eve at Rhythm and Vines in December.

Destinations

Gisborne Surf and café culture combine in the main centre of the region.
Wairoa Base for exploring Te Urewera National Park.

Getting there and around

Air Gisborne Airport offers daily services from Auckland and Wellington.
Road The Pacific Coast Highway winds around the edge of Eastland on its way from Auckland to Hawke’s Bay. A couple of national coach lines operate services between Gisborne and Auckland, and there are local shuttle and bus services within the region. Many parts of the region are quite remote, however, particularly on East Cape, so renting a vehicle may be a good option.

Insider's tip

Popular Makorori Beach, 10 kilometres from Gisborne, is well known for being a great surf spot, but also offers safe swimming.

Cultural treasures

Eastland is rich with authentic Maori culture – it was here that the acclaimed movie Whale Rider was filmed. Just over 13 kilometres north of Gisborne, the Manutuke area contains several significant marae including Whakato Marae, home to Te Mana o Turanga meeting house (opened in 1883).