East Coast Travel Guide

Explore the culturally rich and naturally stunning East Coast region of New Zealand with our comprehensive guide. Discover the best places to visit, eat, stay, and more!


Introduction to East Coast

East Coast is a picturesque region located on the northeastern coast of New Zealand’s North Island. The area is home to beautiful beaches, lush native forests, and rich history, making it a must-visit destination for travelers looking to explore the beauty and diversity of New Zealand.

List of Places to Visit in East Coast

From museums and historical landmarks to natural wonders and outdoor adventures, East Coast has something for everyone. Here is a list of the top places to visit in the region:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Tairawhiti Museum: Explore the rich cultural heritage and history of the East Coast region at the Tairawhiti Museum. The museum features exhibits on the region’s Maori, European, and Pacific Islander history.

  • Eastwoodhill Arboretum: Take a stroll through the country’s largest and most comprehensive collection of trees and shrubs from around the world. Eastwoodhill Arboretum is a natural sanctuary located in the heart of Tairawhiti that’s home to some remarkable botanical wonders.

  • Kaiti Hill: Enjoy stunning views of the city while learning about Maori culture at the Kaiti Hill Historic Reserve. This hill is of great cultural significance for the Maori people, and features the Cook statue.

Natural Attractions of East Coast: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Whale Watching in Gisborne: Adventure out on a whale watching tour in the depths of the Pacific Ocean. Witness the awe-inspiring glimpses of killer whales, humpbacks and southern right whales.

  • East Coast Beaches: The region has some of the most beautiful beaches in New Zealand, with many of the beaches featuring white sand, clear water, and great surf breaks. Some of the popular beaches in East Coast are Wainui, Waikanae and Midway Beaches.

  • Te Urewera National Park: For the adventurous traveler, Te Urewera National Park offers some of the best bushwalking and hiking trails in New Zealand. The national park is home to beautiful waterfalls, pristine lakes and lush forests, and is well known for its abundance of wildlife, such as kiwis and tuis.

Hiking/Biking Routes of East Coast

Hiking and Biking trails in the East Coast region offer a unique way for explorers to experience the natural beauty of the region. Here are some of the top hiking and biking routes in East Coast:

  • Mt Hikurangi: Hike up Mount Hikurangi to catch the first sunrise in the world. This trek involves a challenging hike, however, the panoramic view of the sunrise is worth it.

  • Rere Falls Trail: This walk offers stunning views of a waterfall, caves and is a perfect backdrop for an unforgettable experience.

  • Mangapoike Loop Track: This track is known for its stunning views and diverse terrain types. The loop takes approximately 2.5 hours to complete, depending on your level of fitness and pace.

Best Things to Do in East Coast: Activities and Tours

East Coast has something for everyone. From the beaches to the countryside, there is plenty to do and explore while here. Here are some of the best things to do in East Coast:

  • Wine Tasting at the Winery: Experience amazing views from the vineyard while sipping some of the best wines New Zealand has to offer. Travelers can indulge in wine tasting and learn about the wine-making process.

  • Surfing in Gisborne: Take advantage of the amazing waves and go surfing in Gisborne. This is a great activity for travelers of all levels of experience as there are many different surf breaks to choose from.

  • Kayaking on the Waipaoa River: Take in the natural beauty of the East Coast by taking a leisurely kayak tour on the Waipaoa River. This gentle kayak trip is perfect for all ability levels and is an amazing way to explore the surrounding countryside.

Week-Long Itinerary for East Coast

A week in East Coast will give you a chance to explore the region’s best sights and attractions. Here’s a week-long itinerary that will help you make the most of your trip.

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Tairawhiti Museum and explore Gisborne city’s highlights
Day 2 Hike to the summit of Mount Hikurangi and witness the first sunrise in the world
Day 3 Take an exhilarating surfing lesson at Wainui Beach
Day 4 Visit the Maori churches and significant architectural landmarks of Tolaga Bay
Day 5 Kayak along the Waipaoa River
Day 6 Explore the East Coast’s vineyards and wineries
Day 7 Relax on the beautiful beaches of East Coast

Food and Drink Scene of East Coast

East Coast offers a diverse range of flavors and cuisine that reflect the region’s cultural diversity. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages in East Coast:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pavlova: This dessert is a meringue-based cake with a light and fluffy inside and crispy exterior. It is typically served with fresh fruits such as strawberries, kiwis, and passionfruit.

  • Hangi: A traditional Maori dish consisting of meat and vegetables, cooked using heated rocks buried in the ground.

  • Tea: East Coast is known for its tea estates, and there are many places that offer traditional afternoon tea with scones and cakes.

Local Beverages

  • Wine: East Coast is known for its vineyards and wineries, and produces some of the best wines in New Zealand. If you’re a wine lover, make sure to try a bottle of Chardonnay or Pinot Noir.

  • Beer: Gisborne is home to three local breweries, offering a great range of beer styles for every taste. Try the traditional East Coast lager named after the destination- Gisborne Gold.

Where to Stay in East Coast: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

East Coast offers accommodation to suit every budget and preference, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Here are some of the best places to stay in East Coast:

  • The Dome: This stylishly refurbished historic home is located in the heart of Gisborne and boasts luxury accommodation.

  • Te Puka Tavern: This small gem of a hotel in North Shore, Gisborne, is located just meters away from the beach, and boasts spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean.

  • Motels: There are many motels in East Coast that offer budget-friendly accommodation.

What to Buy in East Coast: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking to bring home a piece of East Coast, consider buying one of these souvenirs or local products:

  • Chardonnay: East Coast is famous for producing some of the best Chardonnays in the world, so why not take a bottle home as a souvenir?

  • Merino Wool: New Zealand is famous for its Merino wool, and East Coast has plenty of gift shops selling products made from this luxurious wool.

  • Jade Maori Carvings: Jade carvings are a traditional Maori art form and make a unique souvenir or gift.

Local Culture and Customs of East Coast

Maori culture is an important part of the East Coast region’s identity, and visitors should take the time to learn about and respect the local culture and customs. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

  • Meeting and Greeting: In Maori culture, a handshake and a hongi (nose touching) are common forms of greeting.

  • Respect for Sacred Spaces: Visitors to East Coast should be sensitive to the sacredness of certain places, such as burial grounds and churches, and act appropriately.

Best Time to Visit East Coast

The best time to visit East Coast is between December and February when the weather is warm and dry, and the beaches are at their most inviting. The region can get busy over Christmas and New Year’s, so it’s best to book accommodation and activities in advance.

Do’s and Don’ts of East Coast

Here are some important do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting East Coast:

Do:

  • Try Local Cuisine: East Coast is known for its unique and delicious cuisine. Make sure to try as many local dishes as you can.

  • Respect the Environment: Make sure to take care of the environment and follow the ‘leave no trace’ ethic when hiking, biking or kayaking.

Don’t:

  • Touch or Remove Artifacts: Visitors should not touch or remove artifacts that may be of cultural significance to the Maori people.

  • Feed the Wildlife: Feeding the wildlife or leaving food scraps behind can seriously harm the ecosystem.

Safety and Health

East Coast is generally a safe destination, but it’s always important to take precautions to ensure a safe and healthy trip.

Safety in East Coast

  • Water Safety: The ocean can be unpredictable and dangerous; therefore it is important to follow directions and make informed decisions when enjoying Water sports.

  • Road Safety: Follow the speed limit and drive defensively, particularly on the windy and narrow coastal roads.

Health in East Coast

  • Sun Exposure: The New Zealand sun is strong, and visitors should wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect skin from harmful UV rays.

  • Insect Bites and Stings: Insects such as bees, sandflies, and mosquitos can be prevalent outdoors. Ensure to wear long sleeves and apply repellent particularly in the bush area.

Getting to East Coast: Transportation Options and Logistics

Getting to and around East Coast is easy, thanks to a range of transportation options. Here are some tips on getting around the East Coast:

Airports Near East Coast

  • Gisborne Airport: The Gisborne airport is the primary gateway to East Coast and has regular services connecting to Auckland and Wellington.

Bus Stations Near East Coast

  • Intercity: Intercity has bus services that run between the major cities of New Zealand and throughout East Coast.

Other Options

  • Car Rental: Renting a car is an ideal way to explore and experience the region, having the freedom to move around at one’s leisure.

  • Tours and Rideshare: Tours and Rideshare services are readily available and can help you navigate around the region comfortably.

How to Get Around in East Coast

The best way to get around East Coast is to drive, as there are many scenic routes and beautiful places that are easier to explore with a car. There are also local taxi services available.

Where to Go Next from East Coast: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

East Coast is situated near many other exciting destinations and excursions to consider after completing your East Coast visit. Here are some places that you might consider adding to your itinerary:

  • Rotorua: Explore the geothermal wonders and Maori culture in Rotorua, located two and a half hours drive from East Coast.

  • Napier: Visit the Art Deco capital of the world and explore the famous wineries in Napier, located two and a half hours drive from East Coast.

Conclusion

From cultural landmarks and natural beauty to adventure activities and amazing cuisine, East Coast has something for everyone. Start packing your bags and make a plan to discover the wonders of this stunning region of New Zealand!