Gisborne Guide
Gisborne, in northeast New Zealand, overlooks the north end of Poverty Bay and is a popular holiday spot because of its great rural charm.
- Tairawhiti Museum and Art Gallery - Highlights include a programme of contemporary art in New Zealand and over 200 Maori and colonial treasures.
- Dive Tatapouri - Experience shark cage diving, rock sliding and a reef ecology tour at this venue on the waterfront where visitors can soak up the history, culture and marine heritage.
- Eastwoodhill Arboretum - it has the largest and most splendid collection of exotic trees and shrubs in New Zealand, with walking tracks and tours and some budget accommodation.
Eating out in Gisborne is a fantastic experience for 'foodies', with the natural surroundings supplying an abundance of fresh produce. Restaurants tend to be laid back, allowing customers to unwind and feel at home, with several featured in the New Zealand Good Food Guide. The Oma Slow specialises in mouth-watering appetisers and has an international wine list, whilst the Whistle Stop Tavern is a charming country pub serving the likes of ploughman's lunches and Sunday roasts with local draught beer.
There are plenty of things for the whole family to enjoy in Gisborne, from museums and galleries to natural wonders and adventure activities. The Morere Hot Springs, just outside town, is one of New Zealand's most attractive mineral pools, and the Inner Harbour is packed with restaurants and cafes. The beach at Pier de Tolaga Bay is popular for picnics, and the Animal Krackers Pet Park with its llamas, emus and miniature horses is always a hit with the kids.
There are several good beaches and surfing spots in the Gisborne area, and sperm whale sightings are common. The natural beauty of the surroundings is proverbial, with Mount Hikuranki and the Mahia Peninsula just a couple of the most popular destinations. There are numerous tours of the countryside available and, as Gisborne is considered the Chardonnay capital of New Zealand, there are many vineyard-based activities to enjoy.
Gisborne hotels come in all shapes and sizes, from budget accommodation for backpackers and independent travellers to plush hotels and well-appointed guesthouses, with something to suit every pocket. Whether visitors are looking for five star luxury or cheap Gisborne hotel options, they can be sure to find Gisborne accommodation to suit their needs.