Things to do in Gisborne

Activities, attractions and tours

A beach with a rock formation and distant mountains under a purple sky.
Two birds with distinctive blue eyes and yellow beaks, surrounded by similar birds in a natural setting.
A beach with people walking and carrying surfboards, surrounded by mountains.
A coastal port with a large cargo ship docked, a breakwater, and a backdrop of mountains and a small town.
A large tree with a street lamp in a park during sunset.

Things to do

Gisborne: Reef Ecology Tour with Wild Stingrays

Gisborne: Reef Ecology Tour with Wild Stingrays

P2,470
per adult
Gisborne: Reef Ecology Tour with Wild Stingrays
Tairāwhiti Gisborne: Guided City Bike Tour

Tairāwhiti Gisborne: Guided City Bike Tour

P5,102
per adult
Tairāwhiti Gisborne: Guided City Bike Tour
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What to do in Gisborne

Stay near popular Gisborne attractions

A beach with waves, mountains, and a clear sky.

Wainui Beach

8.8/10 (6 reviews)
Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Wainui Beach during your trip to Gisborne? Wander the beautiful beaches in this family-friendly area.
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Where to stay in Gisborne

Find the best Gisborne areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most.
A beach with waves, mountains, and a clear sky.

Wainui

Wainui is known for its beaches, and you can plan a trip to Wainui Beach and Okitu Beach while you're in town.

A white car parked on grass next to a tent by a body of water with hills in the background.
Photo by Hallie Smyth
Open Photo by Hallie Smyth

Gisborne Central

If you're spending some time in Gisborne Central, Toihoukura School of Contemporary Art and Gisborne Botanic Gardens are top sights worth seeing.

A coastal landscape with a clear view of the sea, a small island, and a distant mountain range under a partly cloudy sky.
Photo by Natalie Robinson
Open Photo by Natalie Robinson

Kaiti

If you're spending some time in Kaiti, Te Poho-o-Rawiri Meeting House and Kaiti Hill are top sights worth seeing.

A paved walkway along a grassy area with a view of a body of water and distant mountains.
Photo by Natalie Robinson
Open Photo by Natalie Robinson

Awapuni

While visiting Awapuni, you might make a stop by sights like Midway Beach and Kiwa Pools Gisborne.

Outer Kaiti

While Outer Kaiti isn't home to many top sights, Te Poho-o-Rawiri Meeting House and Tairawhiti Museum are some notable places to visit nearby.

Frequently asked questions

Is Gisborne worth visiting?
Offering a mix of surfing and fishing, there are plenty of things to do in Gisborne. While you're here, check out Wainui Beach, a leading attraction in the area.
How do I spend a day in Gisborne?
Wainui Beach and Midway Beach are two good places to start your adventures. Remember to check out the retail and dining options in Gisborne while you're here too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Gisborne?
Wainui Beach is one of the top tourist attractions in Gisborne and deserves a spot on every itinerary of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Gisborne?
Three days in Gisborne is more than enough to enjoy the city's main highlights. Many guests spend two days on average. Wainui Beach, Midway Beach and Makorori Beach are among the top-rated sights. Like to see more? Hang around a while longer to explore nearby hotspots like Tiniroto.
Is Gisborne a walkable city?
Some key attractions in Gisborne, like Midway Beach and Gisborne Wine Centre, are within walking distance. You can also explore several of the city's popular neighborhoods on foot. Only 2 kilometers from central Gisborne is Te Hapara and Awapuni is 2 kilometers away.
What are some activities to do in Gisborne with kids?
Whether you're vacationing with young explorers or adventure-seeking teens, a fun-filled itinerary is the key to a stress-free getaway. Take a look at our ideas for what to do in Gisborne with kids.

What to do in Gisborne for adults?
There's no shortage of things to do in Gisborne, with activities for adults of all ages. End the day with a visit to Gisborne Wine Centre or Matawhero Wines.
Are there free things to do in Gisborne?
One of the simplest ways to discover free things to do in Gisborne is to chat to a local tour guide. You'll get insider advice on interesting neighborhoods, parks and other top attractions you can enjoy without opening your wallet. Wainui Beach is one spot that doesn't charge an entrance fee.