FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions
Is Gisborne on the North or South Island of NZ?
A

Gisborne is a coastal city located on the East Cape of New Zealand's North Island.

Why was Gisborne's name changed from the original Maori name Turanga?
A

1872 - This name was changed in 1872 to Gisborne, to avoid confusion with Tauranga in the Bay of Plenty.

Where is Tairawhiti?
A

Tairāwhiti or Tai Rawhiti may refer to: Northeast Coast of the North Island of New Zealand (Aotearoa) Te Tai Rāwhiti, the customary Māori name used to describe the Gisborne Region.

Where is Gisborne-Tairawhiti or Tairawhiti-Gisborne?
A

Both names are used - and represent the same location. Gisborne-Tairawhiti is the preferred option of the GDC, Gisborne District Council, whereas Tairawhiti-Gisborne is the preferred choice of the local Tourism operator.

What is Gisborne known for?
A

Gisborne is the first city in the world to greet the sun each morning. Gisborne has a reputation for amazing food and wine. Also known as the unofficial 'Chardonnay Capital of New Zealand', Gisborne has a comprehensive wine trail leading to boutique wineries. Gisborne is well worth visiting for its amazing surf beaches.

SH35, Gisborne: WHY is it called > The forgotten tourist highway ?
A

You may never have seen a slice of New Zealand quite like this. Kids play on horses instead of mobiles. Wild pigs run down the road. Cows can be found wandering along remote beaches. And local pubs don't have wi-fi, so people actually talk to each other. The place I'm talking about is East Cape. The first to see the sun, but one of the last places in New Zealand to fully embrace the hectic pace of modern life. || GO TO >> https://www.stuff.co.nz/travel/destinations/nz/gisborne/300262387/sh35-gisborne-the-forgotten-tourist-highway-full-of-hidden-gems

Gisborne - First city to see the Light
A

Gisborne NZ is recogised as the 'first city' to see the sun every day - ideal place/s to experience the sunrise is from either Waikanae or Wainui Beach . . .

Does Gisborne have a Vintage Steam Train ?
A

Gisborne's Wa165 Vintage Steam train - offers one of the most unique rides on the planet - as the main railway line crosses Gisborne's Darton Field Aerodrome.- a feature that is possibly the only Railway Crossing of its kind anywhere in the world!

Is Eastwoodhill Arboretum in Gisborne?
A

Eastwoodhill, the National Arboretum of New Zealand, has over 131 ha of incredible exotic and native trees and shrubs, beautiful in any season, 25km of walking and hiking trails for all fitness levels, and a children's playground and accommodation. Located @ 2392 Wharekopae Road, Ngatapa - 35 km northwest of Gisborne. It was founded in 1910 by William Douglas Cook and is regarded as the largest and most comprehensive collection of Northern Hemisphere trees south of the equator.