Tairāwhiti is home to incredible dining experiences made to be shared.

From country cafes to coastal pubs, gather friends and family round the table and enjoy the good life together.

Te Puka Tavern in Tokomaru Bay

Cosy, casual and absolute beachfront with million-dollar views, Te Puka Tavern is a hidden gem perfect for a day trip with the whānau. Located about a 1.5 hr drive north of Gisborne in Tokomaru Bay, this is where you come to experience a taste of authentic East Coast hospitality. An iconic landmark, Te Puka Tavern has been ‘hosting the coast since 1873’. Get together and enjoy a feast for all your senses with indoor and outdoor seating available to take in the epic views as you enjoy some delicious kiwi tucker with popular faves including the Big Coast Breaky, the Kahuna Burger or Fish n Chips. A café, bar and accommodation provider all in one spectacular setting, Te Puka Tavern is a family-friendly and unique destination to discover.

Gisborne Tatapouri Fishing Club

Often buzzing with boats returning from a day out at sea, the Gisborne Tatapouri Fishing Club is a relaxed and friendly gathering place for mates and family. Open to club members and their guests, the Gisborne Tatapouri Fishing Club is a warm, inviting social club that celebrates the history and recreational popularity of fishing in the region.  Situated harbour side along the marina, you can watch the boats roll in with a cold beverage and hot meal in hand – with quite possibly the best fish burgers in town.

Gisborne Farmers Market

Always a hit with families, you can’t go wrong at the Gisborne Farmers Market. From tots to teens, nanas and poppas, there’s a beautiful sense of community here where growers, makers, bakers, and creators gather to share their bounty. Come rain or shine, the Gisborne Farmers Market is held every Saturday morning at the old Army Hall carpark in town at the end of Stout Street. Blooming bouquets, fresh-squeezed orange juice from the nearby orchards, locally grown macadamia nuts, artisan food and seasonal produce, it’s all here. Grab the ingredients for a family lunch or the makings of a scrumptious family picnic at the nearby Botanical Gardens.

Matawhero Wines

Located 10 minutes outside of Gisborne, Matawhero Wines is a family-friendly winery with a cellar door offering their tasty drops as well as a variety of thirst-quenching local beverages. For the kids, the Children’s Platter offers something to suit their palate – a selection of sandwiches, fresh fruit, hummus, cheese and crackers and a sweet treat to finish.