Things to do in Gisborne

Find and book 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.

Recommended things to do in Gisborne

Number of things to do
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
:
Top 5 things to do
Under $25
With kids

What to do in Gisborne

 

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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. Learn more about Gisborne
Learn more about Gisborne
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.

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Frequently asked questions

Is Gisborne worth visiting?
One of the most common things to do in Gisborne is explore Wainui Beach. Check this leading sight off your to-do list, then discover more of this area's surfing and fishing.
How do I spend a day in Gisborne?
Start your sightseeing with a visit to Wainui Beach and Midway Beach. Then, explore different areas of Gisborne for tasty eats and some shopping.
What is the top tourist attraction in Gisborne?
Wainui Beach is one of the top tourist attractions in Gisborne and should be high on every to-do list of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Gisborne?
Three days will give you plenty of time to check out many city attractions, including Wainui Beach, Midway Beach and Gisborne Wine Centre. The average stay in Gisborne is two days. If you have the time to extend your adventure, Tiniroto isn't far away.
Is Gisborne a walkable city?
Some leading attractions in Gisborne, like Midway Beach and Gisborne Wine Centre, are within walking distance. You can also enjoy several of the city's popular neighborhoods on foot. Only 1 mile from central Gisborne is Te Hapara and Awapuni is 1 mile away.
What are some activities to do in Gisborne with kids?
Whether you're traveling with young explorers or adventure-seeking teens, an itinerary filled with cool activities makes a big difference. Check out our ideas for what to do in Gisborne with kids.
What to do in Gisborne for adults?
Whether you're an avid foodie, culture enthusiast or fan of nature, there are loads of things to do in Gisborne for adults including Gisborne Wine Centre and Matawhero Wines.
Are there free things to do in Gisborne?
One of the easiest ways to find free things to do in Gisborne is to speak with a local tour guide. You'll get insider advice on cool neighborhoods, parks and other top attractions you can experience without getting your cash out. Wainui Beach is one spot that doesn't have an admission fee.