3 Days
150 km
Sacred mountain sunrise
Wild stingrays at Dive Tatapouri
Tupapa Heritage Trail
Tairāwhiti Museum
National Arboretum of NZ, Eastwoodhill
Beginning in Ruatoria, continue south on SH35 via Maunga Hikurangi and the coast
Sunrise atop Maunga Hikurangi
Stand atop our sacred maunga to welcome in the dawn with the people of Ngāti Porou. The highest peak within the Tairāwhiti Gisborne region, Maunga Hikurangi is the first place in the world to welcome the new dawn each day. You'll meet your guide in Ruatoria before ascending the mountain via 4WD vehicle before soaking in the first rays of the sun while learning about Māori gods and legends and the mountain’s significance in New Zealand history.
Finishing mid-morning, take your time and make your way back down the coast towards Gisborne.
Maunga Hikurangi sunrise
1 h 56 min | 129km via SH35
Dive Tatapouri
New Zealand's most unique marine experience, join Dive Tatapouri's Reef Ecology Tour and interact with wild stingrays, eagle rays and other reef dwellers at low tide just 15 minutes from Gisborne.
Tupapa Heritage Trail
In the afternoon, head along the shores of Tairāwhiti to experience the history of Tūranganui-a-Kiwa Gisborne come to life with your own eyes and at your own pace along the Tupapa heritage trail. The world class app delivers a seamless and in-depth experience of the rich stories of tangata whenua (indigenous peoples) and allow you to gain comprehensive insight of the region's unique culture and history.
Dive Tatapouri
Tupapa Heritage Trail
13 min | 13.4km via SH35
Tairāwhiti Museum
Discover our region's most sacred treasures when you spend a relaxing morning at Tairāwhiti Museum. From Tāonga Māori that includes Māori textiles, worked stone, carvings and weapons to fine arts and photography, the museum offers fascinating insights into the rich history and culture of the region.
National Arboretum of NZ at Eastwoodhill
New Zealand's National Arboretum, Eastwoodhill encompasses over 131 hectares planted in exotic and native trees, shrubs and climber plantings. From towering Redwoods to colourful Japanese Maples, this is the ultimate place to bring a picnic lunch and relax amidst the beauty of mother nature.
Tairāwhiti Museum
The National Arboretum of NZ at Eastwoodhill
32 min | 35km via Wharekopae Rd
