Skip to main content
coastal river and tidal lagoon, Pouawa Marine Reserve, Gisborne, East Coast, North Island, New Zealand
coastal river and tidal lagoon, Pouawa Marine Reserve, Gisborne, East Coast, North Island, New Zealand

Discover Gisborne, New Zealand

Māori Culture. Sunrise Views.

Considered the unofficial “Chardonnay Capital of New Zealand,” Gisborne’s winery trail is a must for wine enthusiasts. The region is also one of the sunniest places in the country and one of the first places in the world to see the sun rise. The North Island’s east coast city is known for its delicious cuisine, wonderful surf beaches and an ideal location to learn more about local Māori culture by visiting a Marae (meeting place), Māori village or other attractions. East Cape Lighthouse – the easternmost point of the North Island – offers a taste of scenic countryside and rugged coast.

Exciting Shore Excursions

Immerse yourself in authentic experiences with our Shore Excursions, expertly guided by locals.

Snapshots of Gisborne

A visual preview of the amazing sites that await you.

Rere waterfalls under blue skies in New Zealand Beautiful Rere Falls on the Wharekopae River.
Hands of an old Polynesian Maori woman weaving a traditional woven artwork mat in Auckland, New Zealand. Traditional Māori hand-woven artwork.
Backyard kowhai tree, Gisborne, New Zealand Golden flower Kōwhai, native to New Zealand.
A view of Gisborne and its port. This city on the East coast of New Zealands north island is an important regional centre. Gisborne Port.
Vineyard rows in Napier Hawkes Bay New Zealand Rolling hills at Hawke's Bay Vineyard.

Travel Tips & Interesting Info

Uncover Hidden Gems & Fun Facts

Sunrise, Gisborne, New Zealand

Famous For

Gisborne is famous for being the first city to see the sunrise every day.

Cooked and halved New zealand crayfish on the wooden table.

Exquisite Flavours

Be sure to try Gisborne'’s succulent seafood, especially the freshly caught crayfish.

traditional rock carving lake taupo north island new zealand. High quality photo

Fun Facts

Nearly half of the city’s population are Māori, an ethnic group that represents the Polynesian natives of New Zealand.

Port Name & Location

Eastland Port
Ship will ANCHOR OFFSHORE at this port.

Language

The language spoken in Gisborne is English (NZ English).

Time Zone

NZST (New Zealand Standard Time) UTC/GMT +12 hours

Currency & Shopping

The currency accepted in Gisborne is the New Zealand dollar (NZD).

Featured Gisborne Itineraries

Learn more about Gisborne

Read more on our official travel blog.

Ready To Search For Your Perfect Cruise Vacation?