How do you get to Gisborne and explore the Stunning East Cape?

The wild beauty and remoteness of the region means transport options are limited and worth knowing about before you go. Whether that’s bus, rental car, or taxi, we’ve got you covered with info below.

Getting to Gisborne

Getting to Gisborne is a breeze for those coming from outside the area. Air New Zealand operates five daily flights from both Auckland and Wellington to Gisborne Airport. Alternatively, Intercity offer a convenient bus service connecting major cities directly to Gisborne, with arrivals at the Gisborne i-SITE Visitor Information Centre on Grey Street.

If driving, State Highway 2 links the region to Hawke's Bay and Ōpōtiki through the Waioeka Gorge, while Highway 35 provides a scenic drive along the East Coast, passing through charming towns like Te Kaha, Waihau Bay, Te Araroa, Tokomaru Bay, and Tolaga Bay.

Despite the challenging weather this year, all roads in the region are open, offering numerous ways to explore Tairāwhiti Gisborne. Stay informed with Waka Kotahi for any road updates. Use the handy tool below to plan your journey, whether flying or driving to Tairāwhiti.

Once here, there is plenty to do. Download our 2024 Visitor Guide here. 

Within Gisborne and immediate surrounds

Gisborne City boasts remarkable compactness – just a 5-minute drive from the airport to the CBD. The best way to explore the Tairāwhiti region is by and vehicle there are plenty of options available. 

• Conveniently located at Gisborne Airport, rental options include Avis, Thrifty, Hertz, Budget, Ezi Car Rental, and Rent a Dent.
• Taxis, such as Gisborne Taxis (068762222), Ekocabs (0800361163)
• For a leisurely exploration, consider renting bikes from Cycle Gisborne or Bikeys, offering mountain bikes, BMX, or road cycles with flexible hourly, daily, and multi-day rates.

Round the East Cape

The roads winding up the coast and around scenic State Highway 35 are gorgeous, and the settlements are remote. There is no major bus service, so your options are Cooks Courier, rental car, or hiring a bike for a real adventure.

Cooks Passenger and Courier Service leave from the Gisborne i-SITE Visitor Information Centre daily between 1.30 pm and 2 pm, and drives as far as Wharekahika/Hicks Bay, stopping at towns along the way. For bookings, please call 021 371 364. Experience Gisborne also offer shuttle services for groups ( also cyclists) if travelling around the region and needing assistance. 

If you’ve explored the area and are wanting to get from the top of the Cape over to Ōpōtiki, you can take the Bay Bus from Pōtaka (Lottin Point) to Ōpōtiki: timetable and stops here.