Wild Eastern roadie
Somewhere past Ōpōtiki, where the coastline starts its slow exhale and State Highway 35 begins to wind and dip like it’s dancing, you’ll find a different rhythm. Welcome to Tairāwhiti Gisborne.
Somewhere past Ōpōtiki, where the coastline starts its slow exhale and State Highway 35 begins to wind and dip like it’s dancing, you’ll find a different rhythm. Welcome to Tairāwhiti Gisborne.
Need a change of pace? This East Coast loop from the Bay of Plenty to Gisborne and back through the Waioeka Gorge is the kind of trip that offers wide roads, coastline and a few surprises along the way. Give it three or four days, and you’ll get much more than you bargained for, along with some very decent stories.
DAY ONE: R IVERS , HORSES AND THE OPEN COAST
Hit the road early from the Bay and follow the coast east. By mid-morning, you're in Motu country, with its remote, green landscapes and winding rivers. Hop on a jet boat with Motu River Jet for a ride that’s part thrill, part history lesson.
Next, swap horsepower for actual horses at Standfast Horse Treks in Te Kaha. These aren’t your standard tourist trails. You’ll cross rivers, ride through native bush and get a salty breeze off the sea. Go for a short trek or stay overnight and wake up to birds and surf.
Stay: Stay in Te Kaha, Waihau Bay or Te Araroa, which has a range of accommodation options from hotels, motels, holiday parks and baches.
DAY TWO: A SLOW CRUISE TO GISBORNE
The drive to Gisborne along SH35 isn’t long, but you’ll want to stop often. The route passes through quiet bays and towns like Waihau Bay and Tokomaru Bay, where everything moves slower, but in a good way.
As you head down the coast, pull into St Mary’s Church in Tikitiki, then be sure to try a pāua pie in Tokomaru Bay before continuing south to walk along Tolaga Bay Wharf.
BONUS ADD-ON: If you’ve got time, book a guided tour up Maunga Hikurangi near Ruatoria. It’s one of the first places in the world to see the sun, and the mountain has deep cultural significance to Ngāti Porou. Stand among the sacred pou (carvings) and watch a once-in-a-lifetime sunrise unfold before you.
DAY THREE: INTO THE BLUE
Once in Gisborne, head to Dive Tatapouri for a close encounter with wild stingrays on the reef. No tanks or tricks, just wading into their world. Later, head inland to Eastwoodhill National Arboretum, home to over 135 hectares of diverse, world-class botanical collections.
Stay: From boutique motels and vineyard cabins to farm stays and holiday parks, Gisborne has a great range of places to stay. Or keep it coastal and fall asleep to the sound of the surf.
DAY FOUR: RAILBIKING
If you’re up early, start the day with a famous East Coast sunrise. There’s nothing quite like it. Afterwards, ease into a leisurely brunch at Flagship Eatery or Zephyr in Wainui, both beloved local favourites. Experience Gisborne Railbikes and pedal along a disused railway line, winding through orchards and soaking in stunning coastal views.
Enjoy an afternoon at one of the local wineries. Matawhero, Wrights and Bushmere Estate each offer unique tastings and mouth-watering food to enjoy.
Evening: Try one of the many amazing dining options, such as Crawford Road, Tahu or check out a unique evening experience at Dome Cinema.
HEADING HOME
Loop back to the Bay through Waioeka Gorge, where the road snakes between thick bush and river cliffs. It’s a scenic end to a trip that packs more into a few days than you'd expect.
TO P TI P S
• Bring layers, swim gear, decent shoes and a curious attitude.
• Choose your level of comfort. Accommodation ranges from campsites and retro motels to lodges.
• If you’re going during summer or school holidays, book ahead.