Sacred mountain sunrises, beachfront glamping, and dining amidst vineyards
Tairāwhiti is the perfect place for a romantic weekend away. Come stay and play in the land of the first light and indulge in a variety of fun-filled, dreamy activities in the beautiful East Coast.
For arts and wine lovers
Where to stay?
Portside Hotel
Contemporary, intimate, boutique accommodation nestled along the river’s edge and centrally located near the beach and city centre. Perfectly situated for romantic strolls along the water or enjoying the pool during the warmer months.
What to do?
Bushmere Estate
Wine and dine between the vines at beautiful Bushmere Estate. Just a 10-minute drive from Gisborne’s city centre, Bushmere Estate is a fabulous boutique winery with an on-site restaurant and café. Wine tasting, decadent platters and a full menu featuring fresh local goods and produce, this is a definite must-do for wine lovers.
Gisborne Farmers Market + Tairāwhiti Museum
The corner of Stout and Fitzherbert streets is the best place to be on Saturday mornings for arts and wine lovers. Peruse the array of local growers, makers, and bakers with a stellar line up of the freshest produce in the region. Pop over to Tairāwhiti Museum across the street which showcases the flourishing arts, culture, and heritage of the region.
Where to eat?
Crawford Road Kitchen + Gisborne Wine Centre
Situated in the heart of the Inner Harbour, Crawford Road Kitchen and the Gisborne Wine Centre’s prime location means it’s the perfect evening affair to enjoy decadent food and wine. It’s also easy walking distance from the Portside Hotel along the river which makes things very convenient.
For adventure seekers
Where to stay?
Tatapouri Bay
Dreamy, beachfront accommodation at beautiful Tatapouri Bay. Camp, glamp or check-in to a cosy little log cabin for two. There’s nothing like the sound of the ocean lulling you to a sweet lumber or waking to a stunning East Coast sunrise at your doorstep.
What to do?
Maunga Hikurangi
Atop the highest non-volcanic peak in the North Island, a first world sunrise at the sacred site of Maunga Hikurangi is the ultimate experience for outdoor adventure seekers here in Tairāwhiti. With both daytime or sunrise experiences available, you can explore the history of this land and people with local Ngāti Porou guides surrounded by nine awe-inspiring Māori carvings.
Dive Tatapouri
This world-famous marine experience unique in Aotearoa is a magical way to interact with stingrays and other reef dwellers in their natural marine environment. Located just 15 minutes away from central Gisborne up along State Highway 35 in Tatapouri Bay, Dive Tatapouri is a must-do here in the land of the first light.
Where to eat?
Te Puka Tavern
Established in 1873, the historic Te Puka Tavern is an East Coast icon located 90 km from Gisborne city along the scenic State Highway 35. Warm hospitality, delicious kai and million-dollar views of the beautiful Pacific Ocean makes for an unforgettable dining experience.
For cultural explorers
Where to stay?
Manutuke Eco Retreat
Just 15 minutes from central Gisborne, Manutuke Eco Retreat feels like a world away. Seclusion, scenery, and safari-like tents await you for a unique romantic getaway in Tairāwhiti. Indulge in the beautiful surrounds with your own private jetty, perfect for stargazing by night and paddle boarding by day.
What to do?
Gisborne Railbike Adventure
A totally unique East Coast experience, the Gisborne Railbike Adventure is the perfect way for adventure seekers to explore this region’s great outdoors. With a variety of tandem railbike journeys to choose from, you can enjoy a half-day or full-day of discovery through stunning coastal landscape and sweeping countryside.
Tupapa Heritage Trail
This incredible walking trail takes self-guided tours to the next level. Perfect for first-time visitors, you can explore, discover, and enjoy key landmarks and spectacular viewpoints along this 4km journey through central Gisborne. From beachfront to riverside and then to the top of Titirangi Reserve, the Tupapa Heritage Trails beautifully brings the stories and culture of the people of Tūranganui-a-Kiwa to life. Download the Tupapa Heritage Trail app to make the most of this world-class experience, available both in English and Te Reo Māori.
Where to eat?
The Works
Serving up a tantalising menu using the freshest local produce and award-winning local wines, The Works is a popular gathering place that serves a delectable fusion of contemporary and traditional dishes in beautiful surrounds tucked away in the Inner Harbour.
