CHILL, WELLNESS & RELAX
Mix and match the region’s favourite ways to slow down, recharge and drift into that Out East groove.
Not every adventure needs sweat on the brow. Out East, chill is woven into the way of life, from slow days on golden beaches to evenings under wide, star-rich skies. Think digital detox, long lunches, spa time, or a twilight soak in the hot pools. Golfers can ditch the pressure for a relaxed nine, while stargazers swap screens for constellations. Take your time, find your rhythm, and let the East Coast do the rest. And if you’re ready to map out your ideal chill itinerary, you’ll find it below.
SHORT STAY - HALF DAY TO ONE DAY
Small Bites
● Coffee and boardwalk loop: A cruisy start to the day with sea air and a horizon that always looks
inviting. (2 mins from city centre)
● Farmers Market wander: Fresh produce, local makers and cheerful Saturday morning energy with
local tunes to tap your toes to. (city centre)
● Wainui sunrise stroll: A moment of stillness to begin the day on one of the region’s most loved
beaches. Can you claim you were in Gizzy without a morning beachwalk? (5–10 mins from city centre)
● Shopping in town: Ease into the slower pace with boutique browsing and local finds. (central)
● Brewery visit: Gizzy Gold, Pipeline, Māhia and a countless other house favourites poured fresh at
Sunshine Brewery.
Mains
● Spa or yoga session: Options across town for massage, beachside sauna or guided flow classes (city
centre to 15 mins).
● Winery lunch at Matawhero or Bridge Estate: Slow dining, warm hospitality and a peaceful vineyard
setting (15–20 mins from city centre).
● Dome Cinema matinee: A cosy, relaxed way to settle into the afternoon with a film and a bite in one
of the funkiest buildings in town (city centre).
Extras
● Astro Tours with John Drummond: A gentle, family-friendly and knowledgeable introduction to the
stars and dark skies of Tairāwhiti. Led by local astronomy legend, John Drummond. (20 mins inland)
● Twilight golf: A last-light swing as the breeze settles, made for end-of-day unwinding. Golden hour
golf at its finest. (5–40 mins depending on course)
● Fish and chips on the beach: A simple, Kiwi-classic that always hits the spot. Find beach, insert
dinner.
Dessert
● A glass of wine in the Marina (head to Crawford Road Kitchen)
● Sunset meander along the boardwalk or shoreline (name a beach, they’re all good!)
● A scoop or three of ice cream from Waikanae Beach Café (formerly Captain Morgan’s)
LONGER STAY - TWO DAYS OR MORE
Small Bites
● Stay at Manutuke Eco Retreat: A peaceful hideaway for those looking to unplug and be surrounded
by nature. Insta ready. (15 mins inland)
● Nga Puriri or Rangimarie: Homely, quiet coastal stays with a warm Gisborne welcome. (40-70 mins
on SH35)
Mains
● Coastal ‘staycation’ at Waihau Bay: Settle in for long afternoons and slow evenings by the stunning
and grounded Waihau bay. (3.5 hours)
● Winery and long-lunch circuit: Take your time across Matawhero, Bridge Estate, TW and Wrights.
(15–25 mins)
● Eastwood Hill: A calm yet, uplifting loop through the stunning arboretum, perfect if you want
something softer to balance out the more active options. (30 mins from city centre, best in Autumn)
● Highway 35 slow journey: Stop at beaches, cafés and small community spots along the way, leaning
into the unhurried side of the coast. (half day to 4 days - pick your journey)
Extras
● Mahaanui Farmstay: A relaxed rural stay with gentle walks and that peaceful Tiniroto country feel.
(40 mins inland)
● Boardwalk in the evening: Lingering light, gentle sea breeze and an easy way to end the day. Some
might call this compulsory. (city centre)
● Local events calendar: Community gatherings, live music and pop-up happenings (Gizzy Local).
Dessert
● Stargazing inland.
● A night at Dome Cinema
● Late-night beach wander
Build it your way
From first light at Wainui to unhurried afternoons in the vines, this itinerary is all about taking things at a steady pace. Everything sits close enough that you can follow your mood, shift plans as you go and enjoy the region without rushing. Before you set off, check out our top travel tips and the destinations across Tairāwhiti, they’ll help you shape each day exactly how you like it.
