Gisborne is probably one of New Zealand’s best kept secrets. Centrally located on the East Coast of New Zealand, with beautiful beaches, rugged mountain ranges and the vast Pacific Ocean on its door step; Gisborne offers an idyllic destination for rest and relaxation.
As one of the sunniest places in New Zealand, and in fact the first city in the world to see the sunrise every morning, Gisborne provides an excellent range of outdoor possibilities. Whether you are an active relaxer or someone who prefers to spend the day lounging on the beach, Gisborne boasts a well-earned reputation for superb food, world class wine and stunning sandy beaches. Take a break from everyday life and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and easy going nature of Gisborne for your next holiday.
Here are our top five ways to spend some time relaxing in Gisborne.
Enjoy A Winery Tour
Know unofficially as the ‘Chardonnay Capital of New Zealand’, Gisborne is home to an impressive list of wineries, many of whom specialise in p roducing some of New Zealand’s best Chardonnay. Due to its temperate climate, Gisborne is one of New Zealand’s largest grape growing regions, producing a diverse range of wines from delicious entry-level boutique style wines to critically acclaimed biodynamic classics. Enjoy cellar door tastings or organise a winery tour tailored to suit your requirements.
Lounge Around On The Beach
Gisborne provides a good selection of contrasting local beaches. From the golden sands of Waikanae Beach, only 5 minute walk from Gisborne’s main street where you can enjoy swimming, wind-surfing or simply bathe in the sunshine. To Wainui Beach, recommend by the locals as a favourite for walking, swimming, surfing and fishing or the more rugged historically significant Kaiti Beach, which is perfect for heading out onto the rocks to explore the contents of the rock pools at low tide or to enjoy a spot of fishing.
Soak In The Mourere Hot Springs
A scenic 40 minute drive south from Gisborne is the tranquil Mourere Hot Springs. Set amongst 364 hectares of pristine New Zealand native bush, these unique hot springs are refreshed with 250,000 litres of hot ancient sea water per day. The mineral-rich water is widely considered to have rejuvenating and therapeutic effects, providing a very relaxing way to spend an afternoon with friends and family. The pools are open from 10am, 7 days a week.
Stroll Through Eastwoodhill Arboretum
The Eastwoodhill Arboretum is situated approximately a 30 minute drive northwest of Gisborne. It offers access to an unparalleled collection of Northern Hemisphere trees here in the Southern Hemisphere. Absolutely stunning to visit in autumn, the National Arboretum of New Zealand covers some 131 hectares and is home to thousands of exotic and native trees and plants; you could easily spend a day lost in the stunning beauty of this botanical gem. Explore the numerous beautifully themed spaces, the most awesome nature playground, and view a huge variety of birdlife from around the district. The Arboretum is open daily from 9am to 5pm, and caters for all levels of fitness. Guided tours are the best way to add a touch of education into your visit and discover some amazing facts about the arboretum and the greenery it contains.
Watch The Sun Set Over The Horizon
As the first to see the sun, Gisborne is therefore the first to see the sun set. Watching the sunset over the horizon is the perfect way to end a relaxing day in Gisborne. Head down to the beach for a long walk along the white sands; or take up prime position on Kaiti Hill (otherwise known as Titirangi Reserve), to be the first to watch the sun go down on yet another perfect day in Gisborne.
Gisborne is an idyllic place to relax and enjoy your next holiday. Explore the many and varied attractions of the region while staying with us at the Motel Oasis, conveniently located just on the outskirts of Gisborne, near Sponge Bay and Wainui Beaches.