7 day itinerary
Gisborne Region And East
Itinerary
A week in the Gisborne region and East Coast sounds like a fantastic adventure, especially with friends. You’ll get to enjoy stunning hikes, chill vibes, and some boat time. Let’s dive into your 7-day itinerary!
Day 1: Tauranga to Gisborne
Morning:
- Start your journey early from Tauranga. Grab some breakfast at a local café (maybe a nice flat white and some pastries) before hitting the road.
- The drive to Gisborne will take about 5-6 hours, so make sure to have some good tunes or podcasts lined up!
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 to learn about the local history and culture.
Evening:
- Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Try some fresh seafood at .
- If you’re up for it, take a stroll along the beach and catch the sunset. Gisborne is known for having some of the first sunsets in the world!
Day 2: and
Morning:
- After breakfast, head out to (about a 30-minute drive from Gisborne). It’s a beautiful spot for a hike and some stunning photos.
- Don’t forget to check out the nearby! It’s a natural water slide that’s super fun, especially on a warm day.
Afternoon:
- Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy it by the falls or at the rock slide.
- Spend the afternoon hiking the trails around the area. The is a great option.
Evening:
- Return to Gisborne and relax at your accommodation. Maybe have a game night or watch a movie with your friends.
Day 3: Adventure
Morning:
- Early breakfast, then set off for a day trip to . It’s about a 1.5-hour drive from Gisborne.
- Stop at the . It’s a bit of a hike to get there (around 700 steps), but the views are absolutely worth it!
Afternoon:
- After the lighthouse, explore the beautiful beaches along the coast. is a great spot to chill and maybe have a swim.
- Grab some lunch at a local café or pack a picnic to enjoy on the beach.
Evening:
- Head back to Gisborne and have dinner at a local pub. is a great spot for a relaxed meal.
Day 4: Boat Day at Gisborne
Morning:
- Enjoy a leisurely breakfast, then get ready for a boat day! Book a charter for a fishing trip or a scenic cruise along the coast.
- If you’re feeling adventurous, consider a dolphin-watching tour!
Afternoon:
- Spend the day on the water, soaking up the sun and enjoying the beautiful scenery. Don’t forget to bring snacks and drinks!
- If you’re fishing, hopefully, you’ll catch something for dinner!
Evening:
- Return to shore and enjoy a BBQ dinner if you caught some fish, or head out to a local restaurant to celebrate your day on the water.
Day 5: Hiking in
Morning:
- After breakfast, pack your bags for a day hike in . It’s about a 1.5-hour drive from Gisborne.
- Choose a trail that suits your group’s fitness level. The is stunning, but you can also do shorter walks if you prefer.
Afternoon:
- Enjoy a packed lunch amidst nature. The views around the lake are breathtaking!
- Spend the afternoon hiking and exploring the park. Keep an eye out for local wildlife!
Evening:
- Head back to Gisborne and unwind. Maybe grab some takeout and have a chill night in.
Day 6: Wine and Chill Day
Morning:
- After a busy hiking day, take it easy. Sleep in a bit and enjoy a leisurely breakfast.
- Head to the for some wine tasting. There are several vineyards to choose from, like or .
Afternoon:
- Enjoy a relaxed lunch at one of the vineyards. Many have lovely outdoor seating with beautiful views.
- Spend the afternoon exploring more wineries or just chilling at a café in Gisborne.
Evening:
- Have a fun night out! Check out local bars or live music venues. is a popular spot for a good time.
Day 7: Return to Tauranga
Morning:
- Enjoy a final breakfast in Gisborne. Maybe try a local café you haven’t been to yet.
- Before you leave, take a quick stroll along the beach or visit any last-minute spots you missed.
Afternoon:
- Start your drive back to Tauranga. You can take a scenic route if you have time, stopping at any interesting places along the way.
- Consider a stop at for a quick lunch or snack.
Evening:
- Arrive back in Tauranga, filled with memories and stories from your amazing week with friends!
And there you have it! A week packed with adventure, relaxation, and fun with your friends in the beautiful Gisborne region and East Coast. Enjoy every moment! 🌊🏞️🍷
