GISBORNE
Calling Code: +64 6
This is a prosperous, vibrant sunny port city despite
being in Poverty Bay - named by Captain Cook when he failed to
obtain provisions here after his first landing in New Zealand.
The sea coast and the Turanganui, Waimata and Taruheru rivers adjoin the city, giving it a pleasant aspect. Rich alluvial flats
surround it, producing fine crops, while the hill country to the south, west and north is prime beef, deer, lamb, mutton and wool
production country. Grapes are grown in vast quantities.
Within the city are botanic gardens including lovely gardens celebrate the sister-city relationships with Palm Desert USA, Nonichi, Japan
and Gisborne, Australia. The Tairawhiti Heritage Trails take in nearby Matawhere, the site of the Poverty Bay battle between colonial settlers and Maori tribes
and many other historic sites.
Monuments associated with Captain Cook include a Canadian Totem,
the Kaiti Beach obelisk, Kaiti Hill (Titirangi Recreational Reserve)
with its lookouts and walkways, and the statue at Wakikanae Beach
of Nicholas Young, the first of Cook's crew to sight New Zealand;
nearby is a statue that portrays Captain Cook. Two museums also
preserve this region's rich European and Maori cultural heritage
with Wyllie Cottage being the oldest surviving European house
in Gisborne. Maori history and genealogy is recorded in the carved
meeting houses such as Te Poho-o-Rawiri Marae, one of the largest
carved maraes in New Zealand.
Quick tips/suggestions
The town has a rather peaceful, surfie vibe that boasts an atmosphere
not unlike the other famous surf
centre in Australia - Byron Bay. The aforementioned surfing is a big
attraction, but so is yachting, diving, windsurfing, canoeing, white water rafting and just plain swimming. The best places to take
a dip are at Wainue, Midway and Makarori beaches.
Best Way to Get Around
If there's a place you've stayed or something you've done, but we haven't listed, review it for us!
 Culture
Poho-o-Rawiri Marae - the largest carved marae in nz
Hostels
Flying Nun
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