Unearthing the Heart of Gisborne's Heritage Nestled in the vibrant city of Gisborne, on New Zealand's stunning East Coast, Tairāwhiti Museum is a captivating gateway to the rich history and living culture of its namesake region. More than just a museum, it's a dynamic cultural hub that proudly showcases the profound legacy of Ngāti Porou, one of New Zealand's most significant Māori iwi. Visitors are invited to immerse themselves in an extraordinary collection of Ngāti Porou taonga (treasures), each piece a testament to ancestral artistry, resilience, and storytelling. These invaluable artefacts are complemented by diverse exhibitions exploring the region's unique natural history, pioneering past, and vibrant contemporary art scene, offering a comprehensive understanding of the Tairāwhiti narrative. For researchers, local historians, and curious minds, the acclaimed Tairāwhiti Research Centre is an invaluable resource. It houses an extensive archive, including an outstanding collection of historic photographs, documents, and oral histories that illuminate Gisborne's past and the broader East Coast heritage. This rich repository offers unparalleled insights for genealogy and local studies. Committed to inspiring future generations, the Museum also boasts an excellent education service, engaging primary, intermediate, and secondary schools across the Tairāwhiti with interactive learning experiences. With regularly changing exhibitions ensuring there's always something new to discover, Tairāwhiti Museum offers an engaging, informative, and unforgettable cultural journey for visitors of all ages seeking to connect with the authentic spirit of Gisborne, New Zealand. ---

Nestled just a stone's throw from the vibrant city of Gisborne, Wainui Beach stands as a true jewel on New Zealand's East Coast, celebrated for its captivating blend of natural beauty, thrilling surf, and rich historical tapestry. Often mentioned alongside its equally stunning 'twin', Makorori Beach, Wainui is internationally renowned for its consistent, high-quality surf breaks, particularly during the sun-drenched summer months, making it a prime destination for surfers of all abilities seeking dependable waves. Beyond the exhilarating swells, Wainui offers an idyllic escape for swimmers and families. Its pristine golden sands, gently sloped shoreline, and the vigilant presence of a dedicated Surf Life Saving Club provide a safe and inviting environment for all ages to enjoy the sparkling Pacific waters. The picturesque landscape is further enhanced by rolling sand dunes and expansive Reserve land, which not only offer natural protection from the elements but also contribute to the beach's serene, untouched feel and ecological significance. Wainui also carries a profound historical significance. It serves as the poignant site of a tragic mass whale beaching in 1970, an event deeply etched into the local memory. Visitors can find a contemplative memorial within the Reserve area, offering a quiet space for reflection and connection to this powerful piece of nature's story. With convenient access, including readily available public toilets and ample parking along the roadside and within the Reserves, Wainui Beach ensures a comfortable and memorable visit. Discover why this Gisborne gem is a must-experience destination, promising adventure, tranquility, and a deeper appreciation for New Zealand's coastal wonders.

Makorori Beach, a jewel of Gisborne's sun-drenched East Coast, stands as a legendary destination for wave-riders and a haven for those seeking the raw beauty of New Zealand's coastline. Famed globally, Makorori Point delivers a surfing experience truly in a class of its own. At the heart of its allure is the world-class right-hand reef break, a surfer's ultimate dream. Waves peel perfectly over a shallow reef system, setting up long, sweeping rides that challenge and thrill even seasoned enthusiasts. For the truly epic session, advanced surfers keenly watch for a powerful south or south-east swell, anticipating majestic two-metre waves that perform best from mid to high tide. This isn't just a wave; it's an exhilarating dance with the Pacific, drawing enthusiasts from across New Zealand and beyond. Beyond the exhilaration of the surf, Makorori offers ample opportunities for relaxation and exploration. The northern end of the beach provides convenient amenities, including clean toilets and inviting picnic facilities, perfect for a family day out or a leisurely lunch with stunning ocean backdrops. To the south, a captivating coastal walk winds along the headland, rewarding adventurers with breathtaking panoramic views that stretch across the vast Pacific and connect Makorori Beach with its equally picturesque neighbour, Wainui Beach. This elevated vantage point is a photographer's delight, showcasing the rugged beauty of the Tairāwhiti coastline. Whether you're chasing the perfect barrel, enjoying a family picnic, or simply soaking in the spectacular New Zealand scenery, Makorori Beach promises an unforgettable coastal adventure in Gisborne.

The Mahia Peninsula is a hilly promontory projecting south into the sea, between Poverty Bay and Hawke’s Bay. According to Māori legend, Mahia Peninsula is Te matau a Maui - the fish-hook of Maui.

The peninsula has a number of beautiful beaches and peaceful holiday villages and is a natural playground for people who like to surf, fish, dive, kayak and swim. It has an interesting mix of sandy and rocky beaches – some exposed to the ocean swells, others beautifully sheltered.

Discover the black sand of Black’s Beach and the tranquillity of Poutama and Mahia Beaches. If you want to catch some waves, Mahanga Beach and The Reefs are great destinations.

Kaiti Beach, nestled on the stunning East Coast of Gisborne, New Zealand, is a site of unparalleled historical and cultural significance, offering visitors a profound connection to the nation's origins. This revered stretch of coastline holds the distinction as the first landing site for both the ancestral Horouta waka, bringing the tangata whenua (Māori people) to these shores, and Captain James Cook, the first European to set foot in Aotearoa. This makes Kaiti Beach a truly sacred and powerful point of convergence, where the rich tapestry of New Zealand's dual heritage began, allowing you to almost feel the echoes of discovery across centuries. Dominating the backdrop is the majestic Titirangi Reserve (Kaiti Hill), an essential companion to the beach's historical narrative. Explore well-maintained nature walking trails and exhilarating summit tracks leading to four exceptional lookouts. From these vantage points, soak in breathtaking panoramic views across Poverty Bay, Gisborne city, and the vast Pacific Ocean. The reserve also houses a preserved World War II gun emplacement, a poignant reminder of its strategic importance throughout history. Beyond its historical allure, Kaiti Beach is a vibrant hub for water sports enthusiasts. Its relatively calm and sheltered waters create the perfect conditions for exhilarating activities like water-skiing, slaloming, and wavesailing. A conveniently located concrete boat ramp provides seamless access across the charmingly pebbly shoreline directly into the inviting waters of Poverty Bay, catering to avid boaters and adventurers alike. Whether drawn by its unparalleled historical significance, the stunning vistas, or the thrill of water adventure, Kaiti Beach offers a unique and unforgettable Gisborne experience.

Gisborne's quintessential coastal escape awaits at Waikanae Beach, an effortlessly accessible and perpetually popular destination just one kilometre from the vibrant city centre. Renowned for its inviting atmosphere and expansive golden sands, Waikanae offers a perfect blend of relaxation and recreation, making it a beloved spot for both locals and visitors seeking the ultimate Tairāwhiti beach experience. The gentle, often sheltered waves of Waikanae make it an ideal playground for a multitude of activities. Spend your days swimming, paddleboarding, or kayaking in its clear waters, or perhaps try your hand at beginner-friendly surfing. For those preferring dry land, the beach provides ample space for invigorating walks, sunbathing, building sandcastles, or simply unwinding with a picnic while enjoying the picturesque Gisborne coastline. Safety is paramount here, with Waikanae Beach proudly hosting the Gisborne Waikanae Wainui Surf Life Saving Club. This active club is a cornerstone of the community, providing vital services. During weekends and school holidays throughout the bustling summer season, professional lifeguards actively patrol the swimming areas, ensuring peace of mind for all. Swimmers are consistently advised to enjoy the water between the designated flags for maximum safety. Adding to its unparalleled convenience, the Waikanae Beach Holiday Park is nestled directly behind the dunes, offering prime accommodation with direct beach access – perfect for extended family holidays. Combining its superb location, diverse activities, and unwavering commitment to safety, Waikanae Beach isn't just a place to visit; it's a dynamic hub of coastal enjoyment, promising memorable moments under the Gisborne sun.

Discover Midway Beach, Gisborne, Tairāwhiti's iconic urban shoreline, where vibrant surf culture meets profound historical significance. As one of Gisborne's most beloved beaches, Midway offers pristine golden sands and exhilarating waves, making it a prime destination for swimmers, sunbathers, and surfers alike. Its consistent breaks draw wave riders of all levels, while families enjoy safe swimming within clearly marked flag areas, diligently patrolled by the acclaimed Midway Surf Life Saving Club throughout the summer months. It's the perfect spot for a refreshing dip or an exciting surf lesson in Gisborne. Beyond its recreational appeal, Midway Beach, part of the wider Waikanae foreshore, holds a pivotal place in New Zealand's history. This specific location marks the site of the first recorded meeting between Māori and Pākehā (European) cultures in October 1769, a foundational moment that profoundly shaped the nation. This unique heritage imbues every visit to Midway Beach with a deep sense of connection to a nationally significant past. The modern landscape of Midway Beach Reserve is anchored by the impressive Midway Surf Life Saving Club building, a powerful testament to the community's dedication to beach safety and competitive sport. Established in 1965, the club is renowned as one of New Zealand's top surf life saving competitors, embodying a spirit of excellence and guardianship for all beachgoers. Whether you're chasing the perfect wave, enjoying a family day out, or exploring a site of immense historical importance, Midway Beach offers an unparalleled Gisborne experience.

Discover Waihirere Domain, a true natural gem and a quintessential Tairawhiti experience just a short drive from Gisborne, New Zealand. Located at 85 Waihirere Domain Road, Waihirere, Gisborne 4071, this captivating destination invites you to immerse yourself in untouched native bush and thrilling outdoor adventure, all with free entry. Waihirere Domain serves as the gateway to the renowned Waihirere Falls walk, a spectacular journey deep into one of Gisborne's most accessible native bush environments. As you follow the meandering stream up the valley, you’ll be enveloped by lush forest, the air alive with birdsong and the soothing sound of flowing water. This relatively simple yet profoundly rewarding hike is perfect for all ages, making it an ideal family-friendly activity. The highlight for adventure seekers awaits at Waihirere Falls. Here, the challenge and excitement escalate as you embark on a fun, relatively simple rock climb to reach the very top of the falls. It’s a exhilarating experience that offers incredible views and a unique connection with nature. Beyond the exhilarating climb, Waihirere Domain itself is a peaceful haven, offering ample space for picnics, relaxation, and enjoying the serene Gisborne landscape before or after your bush walk. Whether you're a tourist seeking authentic New Zealand experiences, a family looking for memorable outdoor activities, or an adventure seeker craving a unique thrill, Waihirere Domain promises an unforgettable escape. Pack your bags, lace up your boots, and prepare to explore one of Gisborne’s most cherished natural attractions!

The Riverbank & Town Beach Walkway is Gisborne's most popular spot for locals to stretch their legs. This flat and easy path follows the picturesque banks of the Taruheru and Turanganui rivers before turning into a boardwalk that runs along the beach.

With a total length of 2.5 km, the walkway offers stunning views of both the river and the ocean. Its many access points mean you can choose to do the entire route or simply walk a shorter section. The path is wheelchair accessible and is also a great option for a relaxing bike ride. A good starting point is at the end of Grey Street, right along the Taruheru River.

It’s a welcoming place for new beginnings and new discoveries – the landing place of great navigators and the origins of Aotearoa New Zealand’s defining dual heritage. Here along the shores of Tairāwhiti, you can experience the history of Turanganui-a-Kiwa Gisborne come to life with your own eyes and at your own pace along the Tupapa heritage trail. Since its launch in April 2019, Tupapa - Our Stand. Our Story. has taken the definition of a self-guided walk to a whole new meaning. Designed and integrated with a world-class app, Tupapa delivers a seamless and in-depth experience of the rich stories of tangata whenua (indigenous peoples) and allows you to gain comprehensive insight of the region’s unique culture and history – with this experience offered in both English and Te Reo Māori. Easy enough to navigate for first-time visitors, this 4km walking tour passes by key places of interest and landmarks, with ten eye-catching tour markers guiding you from the city up to the scenic walking tracks of Titirangi Reserve. You can start the tour anywhere along the walk, but the best place is the 3D Trail Overview map. Begin at Waikanae Beach just down the road from Gisborne i-Site and walk along the scenic Oneroa walkway towards the mouth of the Turanganui River - the shortest river in New Zealand at only 1200 metres long. Interspersed along the trail are beautiful artworks acknowledging tipuna (ancestors), a national historic reserve and even the largest tukutuku in the world – a traditional Māori artform used in meeting houses and binding waka (canoes). Once you arrive at the summit of Titirangi, you are rewarded with panoramic views of land, sea and sky and learn about the voyaging traditions that brought great navigators to cast their anchors here.

A short walk up a headland that's all about the fantastic view - overlooking Wainui Beach to the south and Makarori Beach to the north.
If you don't mind walking for 5 minutes on the highway, you can join the with the Okitu Bush Reserve walk too.

Titirangi/Kaiti Hill stands tall above Gisborne a sprawling 35 ha reserve with amazing views of the city centre and its three rivers. What once was a pā (fortified village), Titirangi/Kaiti Hill stands tall above Gisborne a sprawling 35 ha reserve with amazing views of the city centre and its three rivers, logging ships, Turanganui a Kiwa and beyond.
You can walk, bike or drive up to the top of Titirangi with walking tracks, a fitness course, picnic areas and plenty of scenic lookouts, it's a cool spot to enjoy any time of day.

The Rere Rockslide is a thrilling natural waterslide located near Gisborne on the North Island of New Zealand. This exciting attraction offers an exhilarating adventure for both locals and tourists, combining natural beauty with aquatic fun.

At the Rere Rockslide, visitors can slip and slide down a smooth rock surface, with water rushing down from the Rere Falls, creating a thrilling and slippery ride. The rockslide is nestled within a lush forested area, making it a perfect spot to cool off on a hot day while enjoying the natural surroundings.

The rockslide is a popular destination for families and thrill-seekers alike. It's an ideal spot for swimming, picnicking, and spending a day in the great outdoors. Visitors can bring inflatables or simply use their bodies to glide down the slide, creating a memorable experience for all ages.

The Rere Rockslide is not only a fun water attraction but also an opportunity to appreciate the beauty of New Zealand's landscape. The surrounding area offers walking trails, viewpoints, and a chance to explore the serene Rere Falls nearby.

Whether you're looking for adventure, a refreshing swim, or a day of relaxation in a stunning natural setting, the Rere Rockslide promises an unforgettable experience in the heart of New Zealand's scenic beauty. It's a must-visit destination for those travelling to the Gisborne region.

Te Urewera, an ancient and untouched wilderness, invites you to step into the heart of New Zealand's North Island and embark on a journey through time and nature. This pristine region, often called the "Land of Mist," is a haven of awe-inspiring landscapes, where dense rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and tranquil lakes converge in harmony.

Te Urewera is a place where the land tells stories, and the whispers of the past echo through the trees. It holds deep cultural significance for the Tūhoe people, who have lived here for generations. This connection to the land is palpable, and visitors can experience the rich Māori heritage through guided tours and encounters with welcoming locals.

Adventurers will find their paradise amidst Te Urewera's extensive network of hiking trails, from gentle walks to challenging treks that lead to breathtaking viewpoints. Lake Waikaremoana, a jewel within the park, offers kayaking and fishing opportunities beneath a canopy of ancient trees.

Here, time seems to stand still, allowing you to escape the hustle and bustle of modern life and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Te Urewera. Whether you seek cultural enrichment, outdoor adventures, or simply a respite in nature's embrace, this mystical wilderness beckons you to discover its secrets and connect with the soul of New Zealand.