Gisborne And East

A week in Gisborne and the East Coast sounds like a fantastic adventure, especially with friends. You’ll get to enjoy stunning landscapes, some great hikes, and chill vibes by the water. Let’s dive into your 7-day itinerary!

Day 1: Tauranga to Gisborne

Morning:

• Start your day with a hearty breakfast in Tauranga. Grab some coffee and pastries at a local café.
• Hit the road early! The drive to Gisborne is about 5 hours, so make sure to have some good tunes ready for the journey.

Afternoon:

• Arrive in Gisborne and check into your accommodation. There are some great options like beachside motels or cozy Airbnbs.
• After settling in, head to the iconic Tairawhiti Museum to learn about the local history and culture.

Evening:

• Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Try some fresh seafood at The Marina Restaurant.
• If you’re up for it, take a stroll along the beach and catch the sunset. It’s a perfect way to kick off your trip!

Day 2: Rere Rockslide and Rere Falls

Morning:

• After breakfast, drive to Rere Rockslide (about 30 minutes from Gisborne). It’s a natural waterslide that’s super fun! Bring some inflatable mats if you have them.

Afternoon:

• After sliding, head to Rere Falls for a relaxing picnic lunch. You can take a dip in the refreshing water or just chill by the falls.

Evening:

• Return to Gisborne and have dinner at The Rivers Restaurant. They have a great atmosphere and delicious food.
• If you’re feeling social, check out a local bar for some live music!

Day 3: Hiking at Eastwoodhill Arboretum

Morning:

• Fuel up with breakfast, then head to Eastwoodhill Arboretum (about 30 minutes from Gisborne). It’s the largest collection of northern hemisphere trees in the Southern Hemisphere. Perfect for a leisurely hike!

Afternoon:

• Spend the day exploring the various trails. Pack a lunch to enjoy amidst the beautiful scenery.
• Don’t forget to take lots of photos!

Evening:

• Return to Gisborne and have a relaxed dinner at The Gisborne Brewing Company. Enjoy some local brews and hearty pub food.

Day 4: Boat Trip and Chill Day

Morning:

• After breakfast, take a boat trip! You can book a tour with Gisborne Fishing Charters or a scenic cruise. Enjoy the stunning coastline and maybe even spot some dolphins!

Afternoon:

• After your boat trip, spend the afternoon at Wainui Beach. It’s a great spot to chill, swim, or just relax on the sand.

Evening:

• Have a casual dinner at a beachside café. Wainui Beach Café is a great option for a laid-back meal.

Day 5: Te Urewera National Park

Morning:

• Early breakfast and then head to Te Urewera National Park (about 1.5 hours from Gisborne). It’s a bit of a drive, but the scenery is worth it!

Afternoon:

• Spend the day hiking in the park. The Lake Waikaremoana Track offers stunning views and is a great way to immerse yourself in nature. Pack a picnic to enjoy by the lake.

Evening:

• Return to Gisborne and have dinner at The Wharf. Enjoy the waterfront views while you eat.

Day 6: Explore the East Coast Beaches

Morning:

• After breakfast, take a scenic drive along the East Coast. Stop at beautiful beaches like Muriwai Beach and Matahiwi Beach.

Afternoon:

• Spend the day beach-hopping, swimming, and soaking up the sun. Bring along some beach games for extra fun!

Evening:

• Head back to Gisborne and enjoy a farewell dinner at The Gisborne Wine Centre. Sample some local wines and enjoy a delicious meal.

Day 7: Return to Tauranga

Morning:

• Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and maybe do some last-minute shopping or exploring in Gisborne.

Afternoon:

• Start your drive back to Tauranga. If you have time, stop at Hawke’s Bay for a quick wine tasting or lunch.

Evening:

• Arrive back in Tauranga, filled with amazing memories and stories to share!

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And there you have it! A week filled with adventure, relaxation, and good times with friends. Make sure to check the weather and any local events happening during your stay. Enjoy your trip! 🌊🏞️🍷