21 Best Things to Do in Gisborne 2025

Last Updated: 15 November, 2025

The Must-Dos in Tairāwhiti Gisborne!

Written by Real Travellers, Not Algorithms

Every intrepid traveller wanting to explore New Zealand to its fullest makes a trip to the world’s easternmost city, Tairāwhiti Gisborne. The city is on the coast of the North Island’s East Cape or Eastland. With natural attractions as fun as the Rere Rockslide or the wine as aromatic as those served at the region’s wineries, how can you resist getting stuck into the amazing things to do in Gisborne?

Locals love Gisborne for its wine and festivals in vineyards, especially the New Year’s party Rhythm and Vines. In addition, the city is renowned for its significant historical sites and being a frankly epic surf spot. Whether you’re into food, culture or adventure, there’s something for you here in Tairāwhiti Gisborne. Find out what in this list of must-dos in Gisborne!

Side note: Our insights come from experienced travel writers who have tried these experiences, as well as a few reputable recommendations. Scroll to the bottom of the page to learn more about us.

1. Check Out the Waterfront Statues

Strolling down the waterfront, you will step across a number of historical spots marked by statues and plaques, such as the statues of Captain Cook, Young Nick and Te Tauihu Turanga Whakamana (Māori canoe prow).

This will take you back to the first European and Māori meetings in history to better understand New Zealand’s colonisation.

Location: Eastern end of Waikanae Beach, Gisborne Waterfront. Te Tauihu Turanga Whakamana can be found on Heipipi/Endeavour Park on the corner of Gladstone Road and Customhouse Street.

2. Explore Eastwoodhill Arboretum

Be transported to forests from all over the world at the Eastwoodhill Arboretum. This collection of native and exotic trees covers a whopping 135 ha (333 acres), making for an excellent place to immerse yourself in nature just outside of Gisborne.

There are over 25 km (15.5 mi) of walking trails to explore and more than 40 bird species to be seen across the plantation.

See more experiences like this in the 10 Free & Cheap Things to Do in Gisborne.

Location: 2392 Wharekopae Road, approximately 35 km (22 mi) from Gisborne city centre.

3. Enjoy the View from Kaiti Hill

Kaiti Hill, also known as the Titirangi Domain, is a great lookout point over Gisborne and its surroundings, including Wainui Beach and the white cliffs of Young Nick’s Head. The Cook’s Plaza along Queen’s Drive is Gisborne’s #1 selfie spot, while there are a number of trails in the domain ranging from 30 minutes to two hours.

Learn more about the walks in the 10 Best Walks in Gisborne.

Location: Kaiti Hill is also known as Titirangi. Access is via Queens Drive or Kaiti Beach Road, approximately 3 km (1.9 mi) from Gisborne city centre.

4. Learn About the Local Region and Culture at the Tairāwhiti Museum

A great place to start when visiting any new town anywhere in New Zealand is the local museum. The Tairāwhiti Museum, located along the riverside, has a wealth of exhibitions, telling tales of the local Māori through historical artefacts to how the early settlers used to live through the restored Wyllie House.

The wheelhouse of what was once a shipwreck is another highlight, and it now overlooks the Taruheru River.

For more family-friendly options like this, check out the 10 Things to Do in Gisborne with Kids.

Location: 1 Stout Street, Gisborne city centre.

5. Indulge in the Local Wines

Gisborne is the third-largest wine region in New Zealand, so don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in fine wines and artisan food at some of the many cellar doors. The region is famous for its Chardonnay, but it also produces Gewurztraminer, Viognier, Pinot Gris, Merlot and more.

Learn more about each winery in our 10 Best Breweries & Wineries in Gisborne, as well as more upmarket activities in the 10 Best Luxury Experiences in Gisborne.

Location: All around Gisborne – see the link above for specific locations.

6. Try Out Gisborne’s Natural Waterslide

Grab your air mattress, a tube or a simple bodyboard and head to the Rere Rockslide. Speed down the rocks of this natural waterslide and finish in a huge pool at the bottom. It is a natural attraction like no other! While in the area, check out the Rere Waterfall (see below).

This is also a good activity to combine with visiting Eastwoodhill Arboretum nearby (see point #2). Power tip: Check the water quality at the rockslide on the Gisborne District Council website to avoid getting sick.

Location: Wharekopae Road, approximately 50 km (31 mi) from Gisborne.

7. Have a Picnic at the Rere Waterfall

Only moments away from the Rere Rockslide, don’t miss the Rere Waterfall. At this fun and free natural attraction, it’s impossible not to take a good picture! What the waterfall lacks in height, it makes up for in width, creating a cascade worthy of any Instagram account.

Discover more romantic places like this in the 10 Most Romantic Things to Do in Gisborne.

Location: Wharekopae Road, approximately 50 km (31 mi) from Gisborne.

8. Explore the City Centre

We’ve talked a lot about the amazing things to do around Gisborne but the city centre is also well worth exploring. The vibrant town is full of unique buildings and shops that give you an authentic taste of New Zealand’s culture and life.

The town also holds New Zealand’s oldest European cottage, Wyllie House, built in 1912. That’s old for New Zealand, Ok?! And of course, don’t forget to get a photo of the Town Clock.

Check out some excellent places to eat, too, using The Food Guide to Gisborne.

Location: Gisborne city centre.

9. Meet the Stingrays at Dive Tatapouri

At low tide, join the team from Dive Tatapouri for a reef ecology tour. You’ll be kitted up in waders and led out onto a shallow reef to feed the local residents: giant short-tail stingray, majestic eagle ray and the mischievous kingfish.

Learn all about these beautiful creatures on this interactive tour just outside of Gisborne.

Location: 532 Whangara Road, approximately 14.5km (9 miles) from Gisborne city centre.

10. Visit the Gisborne Farmers’ Market

Who doesn’t love a classic New Zealand farmers’ market?! If you haven’t had a chance to discover one for yourself yet, then make your first one at the Gisborne Farmers’ Market! Try local fruit, vegetables, cheese, wines and bread, as well as other artisan products.

When you’re done browsing all of the goodies, relax with a coffee while listening to live music. The Gisborne Farmers’ Market is on every Saturday from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm.

See more experiences like this in the 10 Things to Do in Gisborne for Foodies.

Location: Army Hall Carpark, corner of Fitzherbert and Stout Street, Gisborne city centre.

11. Explore Gisborne by Bike

Hire a bike from the Gisborne i-SITE or Cycle Gisborne and explore the town on two wheels. The bike-friendly footpaths alongside the rivers and waterfront of Gisborne make it a great place to get on your bike and see the city highlights quickly. Plus, it’s one of the very few cities in New Zealand that’s almost entirely flat!

Location: Gisborne i-SITE – 209 Grey Street. Cycle Gisborne – 124 Ormond Road.

12. Relax in the Botanical Gardens

Located along the Taruheru River, the Gisborne Botanical Gardens is a great spot to unwind. Take a picnic and settle on one of the many grass patches or stay active by taking one of the multiple bushwalks of the gardens.

Location: Beside the Taruheru River off Aberdeen Road, approximately 1.6 km (1 mi) from Gisborne city centre.

13. Surf Independently…

Surfing in Gisborne couldn’t be easier with two fantastic surf beaches accessible from town. Waikanae Beach at the end of Roberts Road is a popular spot for beginners and surf lessons, while intermediates might want to try Gizzy Pipe, which is located just in front of the surf club.

For those looking for more of an adventure, check out the breaks at Sponge Bay, The Island (for advanced surfers only), Wainui Beach and Makorori Beach.

Location: Waikanae Beach, Gisborne city centre. Makorori Beach, approximately 13 km (8 mi) from Gisborne city centre. Wainui Beach, approximately 6 km (4 mi) from Gisborne city centre.

14. … Or Learn to Surf!

As mentioned, Gisborne is a surfer’s paradise where newbies can learn on the safe sandy-bottom waves of Gisborne’s city beach, Waikanae Beach. It has been one of our favourite spots for learning to surf in New Zealand for that reason alone!

There are plenty of options when it comes to choosing a surf coach in Gisborne, including Surfing with Sarah, Salt Shack Surf School, and New Wave NZ.

Location: Waikanae Beach, Gisborne city centre.

15. Hop on a WA165 Steam Train

If you’re lucky enough to be in Gisborne during a summer or holiday weekends then you’ll get the chance to ride a WA165 steam locomotive through the city and countryside of Gisborne. Highlights of the trip include travelling straight across an airport runway and over a 329 m (1,079 ft) bridge.

Pick up your tickets to the Gisborne City Vintage Railway from the Gisborne i-SITE.

Location: Gisborne Railway Station, Grey Street, Gisborne city centre.

16. Discover Gisborne’s Walking Trails

Discover photo-worthy viewpoints, native bush, coastal walkways and historical sites along the many walkways in and around Gisborne. Enjoy an easy stroll along the boarded Town Beach Walkway, spot native birds in Gray’s Bush Scenic Reserve, and capture magnificent views from the Te Kuri Farm Walkway.

Get more details on each of these walks and more in our 10 Gisborne Walks You Can’t Miss.

Location: In and around Gisborne – see the link above for specific locations.

17. Play Mini Golf – Gizzy Style!

If you’re only going to do one mini golf course in New Zealand, make it the fun and characterful Gisborne i-SITE Mini Golf!

With each hole, you’ll take a whirlwind tour around the East Coast of New Zealand, from the surf waves of Gisborne to the East Cape Lighthouse. There are 18 holes in total, and it’s fun for all ages.

Location: Gisborne i-SITE, 209 Grey Street, Gisborne city centre.

18. Hit the Coastal Railway on a Railbike Adventure

Enjoy a unique and memorable adventure with railbiking! That’s right, Gisborne Railbike Adventures has made special railway bicycles that allow friends and family to peddle on a stunning coastal railway between Gisborne and Mahia.

There are 90 km (56 mi) of railway to explore, which are broken up into three different ride options incorporating bushclad valleys, tunnels, farmland and expansive ocean views. Pack a picnic and enjoy the ride!

Location: Awapuni Road, approximately 5 km (3 mi) from Gisborne city centre.

19. See in the New Year with One of New Zealand’s Biggest Festivals

The Rhythm & Vines Festival is arguably New Zealand’s biggest and most iconic festival. Held in December over the New Year period, the three-day festival often has an amazing guest list spread over multiple stages. It’s a must-do for any festival lover!

Learn more about it in the 10 Best New Year’s Eve Events in New Zealand.

Location: Waiohika Estate, approximately 11.5 km (7 mi) from Gisborne.

20. Watch the First Sunrise in the World

Gisborne is world-famous for one thing: being the first city to see the sunrise every day. So set your alarm clock early, don’t drink too much the day before (quite hard in Gisborne, we know), and sit on the beach to enjoy the show. You’ll feel oh so special that you are the first one to see the new day.

One of the best beaches to watch the sunrise from is Wainui Beach, awash in picturesque sand dunes and quiet spots to enjoy the natural marvel together.

Alternatively, drive or walk to the top of Kaiti Hill overlooking Gisborne and Poverty Bay.

Better yet, our favourite spot is the Okitu Bush Scenic Reserve Walk at Makorori, not only for the attractive native bush setting but also for the best view of the sunrise.

Location: Wainui Beach – Access off Wairere Road, approximately 7 km (4 mi) from Gisborne city centre. Kaiti Hill – Kaiti Beach Road, approximately 2 km (1.2 mi) from Gisborne city centre. Makorori – State Highway 35 at the Northern end of Wainui Beach.

21. Go Off-Roading with Motu Outdoor Adventures

For those craving real adventure in Gisborne, Motu Outdoor Adventures is where you’ll find it. Located just off State Highway 2 in rugged countryside, this is the ultimate playground for off-road enthusiasts.

Over 35 km (22 mi) of tracks sprawl across 1,000 ha (2,471 acres) of pristine native bush in a previously inaccessible part of New Zealand. Navigate steep hillsides, cross streams and narrow passages, all while soaking in breathtaking views of the countryside from scenic viewpoints.

Bring your own off-road vehicle or ATV if you’re a local, or book a guided 4WD or ATV tour if you’re visiting from overseas. Either way, you’ll experience diverse landscapes and tackle challenging terrain in a backcountry setting you won’t forget.

Whether you’re behind the wheel or along for the ride, this is where Tairāwhiti’s great outdoors truly comes alive.

Location: State Highway 2, approximately 30 km (19 mi) north of Gisborne city centre.

More About Things to Do in Gisborne

That’s it for our guide to things to do in Gisborne; for more information about this charming city on the East Coast, check out the following articles:

Finally, if there’s anything we’ve missed, you’re likely to find it in Eastland Must-Dos.

Sources:

The information in this guide has been compiled from our extensive research, travel and experiences across New Zealand and the South Pacific, accumulated over more than a decade of numerous visits to each destination. Additional sources for this guide include the following:

Tourism New Zealand (General travel advice - Updated [2025])
Department of Conservation (Tracks, hikes, campsites and more - Updated [2025])
AdventureSmart (Know before you go - Update [2025])
Tiaki Promise (Care for people place and culture - Updated [2025])
NZ Māori Tourism (Official Māori Tourism platform - Updated [2025])
Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency (Road and transport tips - Updated [2025])
DriveSafe (Road safety - Updated [2025])
Council websites and freedom camping maps (Local travel advice region by region - Updated [2025])
Safe Travel (NZ travel advisories - Updated [2025])
Tourism Export Council New Zealand (Tourism trade association - Updated [2025])
TIA (Independent tourism association - Updated [2025])
Tairāwhiti Gisborne (Regional tourism website)
Gisborne District Council (Local council website)

Our editorial standards: At NZ Pocket Guide, we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure accurate and quality content.

About The Author

Robin C.

This article has been reviewed and approved by Robin, who is the co-founder of NZ Pocket Guide. With more than 15 years of experience in the New Zealand tourism industry, Robin has co-founded three influential tourism businesses and five additional travel guides for South Pacific nations. He is an expert in New Zealand travel and has tested over 600 activities and 300+ accommodations across the country.

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