ADVENTURE TAIRĀWHITI - FISH, RIDE AND DIVE
Mix and match the Gisborne and Tairāwhiti’s favourite ways to chase the coast, lean into the elements and head deeper Out East.
Adventure in Tairāwhiti comes with space, coastline and a licence to roam. The region is shaped by long
stretches of water, quiet (yet lively) rivers, wild back roads, and remote freedom along a coastline that seems
to open up a bit more the further you go. Whether you are casting a line, riding on a two-wheeled waka,
doing bridge manus, or working your way along Highway 35, this is where the journey becomes the
experience.
Below is a flexible spread of short and long-stay adventure ideas for anyone keen to get moving. Pick a few
small bites or lean into the full menu and follow the coast where it leads.
SHORT STAY - HALF DAY TO ONE DAY
Small Bites
● Town beaches and Wainui surf check: Easy access, rolling sets and a classic Gizzy beach morning.
(5–10 mins from city centre)
● Walk the Makorori Headland: A short climb with a sweeping coastal lookout. (10 mins north on
SH35)
● Railbike taster: A relaxed ride on the shorter routes closer to town. (20 mins from city centre)
● Coffee and boardwalk loop: Slow coastal energy without needing to go far. The local pilgrimage.
(access begins 2 mins from city centre)
Mains
● Dive Tatapouri: A gentle reef encounter and a local soft-adventure favourite. (15 mins north on SH35)
● Surf session at Wainui or Waikanae: A simple way to get salty and find your wax footing. (5–10 mins
from city centre)
● Cycle tour around the city: Light trails, coastal stops and easy riding. (city centre, easy half day)
Extras
● Rocket Lab viewing from Kaiti Hill: Truly unique. Launches are more frequent than you might think. (5
mins from city centre)
● Golf anywhere in the region: Charming auld links, parkland layouts and country treasures. (5–40
mins depending on the course)
Dessert
● Fish and chips on the beach
● Sundown beer at Sunshine Brewery (central)
LONGER STAY - TWO DAYS OR MORE
Small Bites
● Eastwoodhill warm-up wander: A peaceful change of pace surrounded by trees and birdsong. (35 mins inland)
● Tatapouri Bay Holiday Park: Settle in beside the sea and wake to sunrise over the water. (15 mins north on SH35)
Mains
● Cooks Cove Walkway: A half-day coastal walk with rewarding views. Where Cook once took shelter.
(45 mins north on SH35)
Highway 35 active loop (southern section): Short trails, swims, roadside stops and endless beaches.
(20–60 mins north on SH35)
● Full railbike journey: Make the most of the longer routes or head out on the Mahia tour. (half day to
full day, 20 mins drive to Muriwai - start point)
● Surf, dive and cycle rotation: Build your days around the water and the trails. (various spots, 5–40
mins)
Extras
● Stay in Waihau Bay or at Te Puka Tavern: Easy coastal living, good food and relaxed evenings. (3.5 hour drive to Waihau either way, SH2 or SH35; 1 hour 15 mins drive to Te Puka Tavern)
● Winery time: Matawhero, Bridge Estate or TW for a slow afternoon session - clink to that! (15–20 mins from city centre)
● Look for Rocket Lab activity: The local Cape Canaveral - head to Nuhaka for a closer vantage point. (1 hour south)
Dessert
● A night at Dome Cinema (city centre)
● An easy boardwalk wander (city centre)
● Stargazing on a clear night (just look up - or head inland for even clearer skies)
Build it your way
Short visit or a longer roam, our array of active escapes lets you stitch together a trip that stays light and outdoorsy. Everything sits close enough that you can shift plans as you go, and the coast rewards anyone who follows curiosity rather than a timetable. Before you lace up, check out our top travel tips and the destinations across Tairāwhiti to help shape your adventure. Dessert anyone?
