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Top 5 Must-See Attractions in Gisborne

Our guide to Gisborne’s top attractions and hidden treasures

We have put together a list of our favourite Gisborne attractions to help you experience the very best of this stunning region. Whether you’re looking for hidden gems, must-see landmarks, or fun things to do in Gisborne, this guide has got you covered.

 

 

1. Dive Tatapouri Stingray Tour: A Reef Ecology Attraction and Must-Do Experience In Gisborne

Dive Tatapouri is just a 15-minute drive from Tairāwhiti Gisborne along the scenic State Highway 35. It’s here on the East Coast, where the first light graces New Zealand’s shores, that you’ll find a world-famous interactive marine experience. Visitors are invited to connect with the Tamariki (Children) of Tangaroa (the Māori God of the Sea)—a magical encounter with stingrays and other marine life. This unique experience immerses you in the rich local culture and the stunning marine environment of Tatapouri.


2. Surf Lessons at Gisborne’s Best Beaches: A Must-Do Experience for Beach Lovers

If you’re a beach lover, Gisborne offers some of the most stunning beaches in New Zealand, making it a top destination for fun things to do in Gisborne. Whether you’re looking to learn to surf, swim in crystal-clear waters, or simply relax by the shore, Gisborne’s attractions have something for everyone. With world-class surf spots like Wainui Beach, Salt Shack Surf School offers the perfect surf lessons to help you catch the waves. From popular beaches to hidden gems, Gisborne is the ideal place for an unforgettable beach experience.

Surfers at Salt Shack Surf School in Gisborne, one of the top Gisborne attractions for fun things to do in Gisborne, enjoying the waves at a popular Gisborne beach for surfing


3. Things to Do in Mahia: Surfing, Fishing, Walkways, and Morere Hot Springs

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Gisborne, a short drive to Mahia will offer you the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. Mahia is a hidden gem, with stunning beaches ideal for surfing and fishing, as well as scenic walkways such as Mahia Penisula Scenic Reserve Track that offer breathtaking coastal views. Whether you’re an experienced surfer or a beginner looking to catch the waves, Mahia’s beaches are a must-visit. After a day of surfing or a fishing charter with Mahia Boating & Fishing Club, unwind with a relaxing visit to Morere Hot Springs, just 45 minutes away, where you can soak in the therapeutic hot pools surrounded by lush native forests. Mahia offers the best of Gisborne’s attractions, all in one scenic location.

The breathtaking coastline of Mahia Peninsula, a hidden gem near Gisborne, New Zealand, perfect for surfing, fishing, and exploring the outdoors


4. Eastwoodhill Arboretum: A Hidden Gem for Nature Lovers in Gisborne

Eastwoodhill Arboretum is one of the best Gisborne attractions, offering a haven for nature lovers and anyone looking for fun things to do in Gisborne. This internationally recognized arboretum is home to over 25,000 species of exotic and native trees, making it a vital “arboreal ark” for endangered plants.

Stroll through its beautiful grounds and “travel the world” by exploring trees from Argentina to Alaska. With its peaceful surroundings and rich history, Eastwoodhill is the perfect destination for those seeking a unique and meaningful experience in Gisborne.

Eastwoodhill Arboretum in Gisborne, New Zealand, showcasing a vast collection of native and exotic trees, recognized as a must-see Gisborne attraction for nature lovers and conservation enthusiasts


5. Discover Gisborne’s Arts, Culture, and Heritage at the Tairāwhiti Museum

If you’re searching for things to do in Gisborne that highlight the region’s deep cultural and historical roots, the Tairāwhiti Museum is an essential destination. As the major institution for arts, culture, and heritage activities in the Tairāwhiti region, the museum serves as a perfect introduction to Gisborne’s rich history.

Visitors to the Tairāwhiti Museum will experience a wide range of exhibits and educational programs that offer insights into Gisborne attractions. From Māori heritage and colonial influences to contemporary local art, the museum tells the stories that have shaped the Gisborne we know today.

With collections that showcase Gisborne’s history, this cultural gem extends its influence far beyond its walls, connecting visitors to the greater Tairāwhiti community. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or someone simply looking for a meaningful experience, the Tairāwhiti Museum offers a chance to appreciate the arts, culture, and heritage that make Gisborne and its surrounding areas truly unique.

If you need places to stay in Gisborne

The Tairāwhiti Museum building in Gisborne, home to exhibitions and collections that highlight the history and heritage of the Tairāwhiti region

 

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