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A quick transport guide for navigating Gisborne and the East Coast
From mountain roads and coastal highways to compact city streets, getting around Tairāwhiti is part of the
adventure. Whether you’re flying into Gisborne Airport, hiring a car, or tackling the Auckland to Gisborne
drive, there’s no wrong way to explore this region. If you’ve ever found yourself googling where is Gisborne,
you’ll find it tucked on the eastern edge of the North Island - sunrise central and the perfect launchpad for
East Coast adventures.
If you're short on time, grab the Visitor Guide here and hit the road. Otherwise, scroll on for the local
wayfaring lowdown - wheels, wings, and wanderings included.
FLYING TO GISBORNE
Quick hops from Auckland and Wellington
Multiple daily flights from Auckland and Wellington with Air New Zealand make getting here easy-peasy. The flight here is always
spectacular, and you’ll feel at home as soon as the wheels touch down. Gisborne Airport is just a five-minute
drive from town, with car hire and taxis available on arrival. Prior booking is recommended.
- Car hire: Avis, Budget, Ezi Car Rental, Hertz, Thrifty, Rent a Dent
- Taxis & shuttles: Gisborne Taxis (06 876 2222), Ekocabs (0800 361 163)
ROAD TRIPPING BY CAR OR MOTORBIKE
The road to Gisborne is almost a rite of passage
If you’ve never driven into Tairāwhiti, you’re in for something special. The journey is half the story - flanked by
rugged ranges and sweeping coastline, the drive in is an experience all of its own. Can you really say you’ve
been to Gisborne if you haven’t arrived by road at least once?
- From the north or south: State Highway 2 links Gisborne to Ōpōtiki (via the stunning Waioeka Gorge)
and Hawke’s Bay through a series of high country passes - Coastal circuit: State Highway 35 takes you on a remote and scenic loop around the East Cape, with
townships like Tolaga Bay, Tokomaru Bay, and Te Araroa dotted along the way - Driving tip: Take your time. These roads are made for slow travel, photo stops, and the occasional
roadside story
Check Waka Kotahi for up-to-date road conditions before you travel.
EXPLORING BY CAMPERVAN OR MOTORHOME
Freedom to roam, sleep, and wake to sunrise views
Tairāwhiti is made for life on four wheeled wakas. With wild coastlines, empty beaches, and open skies,
exploring by camper or motorhome gives you the freedom to stay close to the action - or disappear for a
while. But it’s not a free-for-all. Freedom camping is permitted in some places, but not all, so check local signage
and Council guidelines before settling in. There are also plenty of camper-friendly options, from DOC sites
and coastal campgrounds to local gems where you can park up, meet the locals, and wake up to the sound of
the sea.
- Freedom camping is allowed in some areas - check local signage and Council guidelines
- Camper-friendly stays: Campgrounds, DOC sites, and rural gems along the Coast
- Plan ahead: Stock up on supplies and fuel, especially before heading past Tolaga Bay
GETTING AROUND GISBORNE
Flat, compact, and easy to navigate
With its walkable city centre, nearby beaches, and short distances between key spots, Gisborne is simple to
get around. Most attractions are just minutes apart, whether you’re heading from the airport to town, the CBD
to the surf, or café-hopping along the waterfront. In fact, the locals say everywhere is no more than ten
minutes. That includes rush ‘hour’.
- Bike hire: Cycle Gisborne and Bikeys offer road, mountain, and e-bikes
- Taxis & rideshares: Available locally and at the airport
- Car rentals: Available in town and at the terminal
GETTING AROUND THE EAST CAPE
Remote, rugged, and totally worth it
The East Cape’s beauty lies in its remoteness - winding roads, laid-back coastal towns, and horizon for days.
There’s no big-name public transport out here, but a few trusty local operators can help you get from A to B
(or at least somewhere close).
- Cooks Passenger & Courier Service departs daily from the Gisborne i-SITE to Hicks Bay (Wharekahika), with stops along the way. Call 021 371 364 to book
- Experience Gisborne offers shuttles for groups, cyclists, and bespoke travel
FINAL TIPS
- Download our Visitor Guide for more travel tips and regional info
- GPS is handy - but locals are better: Don’t be shy to ask for directions or recommendations
- Respect the roads: Not all roads are smooth - slow down, stay sharp, and share the space.
