Gisborne - The Coast Where the Sun Shines

If you want to get off the beaten track, Gisborne and the surrounding Tairāwhiti region are the place to go. This is the home of State Highway 35, one of New Zealand’s greatest road trips that winds around the remote East Cape.

For campers, this region offers a mix of surf culture and isolation. You can park up at the famous Wainui Beach (just minutes from the city), stay at a holiday park in town near the vineyards, or head up the coast to find incredible beachfront Department of Conservation (DOC) sites like Anaura Bay and Tokomaru Bay.

Why Go Camping Here?

The First Sunrise: Camp near the East Cape Lighthouse and be among the first people on the planet to see the new day dawn.
Surf Culture: Gisborne is a surfing mecca. The breaks at Wainui and Makorori are legendary, but there are plenty of sheltered spots for beginners too.
Māori Culture: Tairāwhiti is steep in history. It is the landing place of the waka Horouta and Captain Cook, and home to the sacred Maunga Hikurangi.
Food & Wine: As the "Chardonnay Capital of New Zealand," you can camp near the vines and enjoy incredible local produce.

Must-Do Camping Activities

Slide Down Rere Rockslide: A natural 60-metre rock water slide. Grab a bodyboard (or an old tyre) and hold on tight—it’s free and unforgettable!
Walk Tolaga Bay Wharf: Stretch your legs on New Zealand’s longest wharf (660 metres) which stretches out into the deep blue Pacific.
Feed Wild Stingrays: Visit Dive Tatapouri to wade into the reef at low tide and hand-feed wild stingrays and eagle rays.
East Cape Road Trip: Take your time driving Highway 35. It’s a slow, winding road full of hidden bays, historic churches, and friendly locals.
Rere Falls: Located right next to the rockslide, this picturesque waterfall is a great spot for a picnic or a swim behind the curtain of water.

Campsites in Gisborne

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