The perfect place for a family outing, the Gisborne Botanical Garden occupies 5.1 hectares between Aberdeen Road and the Taruheru River. Hosting a variety of stunning trees, flowers and garden collections including the Palm Desert (USA), Gisborne (Aus), and Nonochi (Japan) gardens that were inspired by and represent Gisborne’s sister cities. The park also features ponds, rose and cactus collections, an aviary and children’s playground.

With nine separate playground areas, the Adventure Playground is an excellent place for some family fun. Just a 10-minute walk along the beach from the TOP 10 Park, the playground also offers seating areas and a small lake where you can feed the ducks.

When most people think of Gisborne, they think beaches. Which makes sense, because we are (quite literally) surrounded by some of the best beaches in NZ. Walking distance from the holiday park are the stunning Waikanae and Midway beaches or go for a short drive in either direction to find more picturesque sandy stretches.

Gisborne is home to some spectacular scenery, from rolling hills to native bush, intimate caves to scenic beaches - there is so much to explore and see on foot. There are walks to suit all fitness levels and experience, from short strolls along the boardwalk to multi-day tramping adventures.

Located around 50km inland from Gisborne is this photogenic waterfall, picnic area and swimming hole. The Rere Rockslide is a 60metre water slide just up the road from the waterfall. Take boogie-boards, wetsuits, inflatable mattress or simply a rubber inner tube to slide down this amazing natural water slide

Are sited at the mouth of Turanganui River near Waikanae Beach. Cabin boy, Nicholas Young, was the first crewman on board Cook's barque Endeavour to sight New Zealand in 1769. Young Nick's Head, the striking headlands protecting the southern opening of Poverty Bay bears his name. At Kaiti Beach marks the place where Captain Cook landed on the 9th October, 1769.

If you’ve got children and bikes, then the Junior Cycle Park is a must-do! It is a miniature replica roading system, complete with traffic lights and crossings. Allowing children to encounter real-life cycling situations. It’s a fun and education activity just 10 minutes from the park.

Another vacation must do, Mini Golf. A fun and budget-friendly activity that everyone enjoys (especially the winner). Located at the i-SITE, just a 5 minute walk from the TOP 10 park, it’s fun, cheap and local, what more could you want!

Just a 10-minute walk from the park, you’ll find Kiwa Pools, a modern pool facility the whole community can enjoy. The facility boasts three indoor pools: a versatile 50m pool, a leisure and toddlers' pool, and a learn-to-swim hydrotherapy pool. Additionally, the beloved features of the former Olympic Pool complex have been preserved, including a 33m outdoor pool, an outdoor toddlers' pool, a dive pool, and a 98m hydroslide.

It’s the perfect rainy day activity…the movies! Showing the latest blockbusters in a traditional Kiwi cinema, the Gisborne Odeon is a great activity for families, couples or solo travellers. Grab a freshly made box of popcorn or choc top ice cream on your way past the box office and enjoy! Click for showtimes.

Founded in 1910 by Douglas Cook, the Eastwoodhill Arboretum is a National Arboretum of New Zealand. Located just 30 minutes out of town, Eastwoodhill encompasses 131 hectares of exotic and native trees, shrubs and climber plantings. There is also an adventure playground and onsite shop and café.

45 minutes out of town is the Morere Hot Springs. With a variety of hot pools and an outdoor swimming pool, it’s a great destination for a family adventure. The complex also has two private pools and an onsite shop and café. Surrounding the pools are a selection of walks suitable for different fitness levels.

We don’t like to brag, but Gisborne surf is some of the best in the country. With a variety of different breaks for different surfers, it’s a popular sport for locals and activity for visitors. Surfboard hire and lessons can be arranged locally.

Full of hands-on and educational exhibitions and art, the Tairāwhiti Museum is a treasure chest of regional history and information. As a region full of rich culture and history, there’s plenty to see. Luckily, there’s is also an onsite café to keep you fuelled and a gift shop.

Located at Gisborne Airport, the Aviation Preservation Museum is the perfect place for plane enthusiasts, hosting a variety of vintage planes, and a small children’s play area. Climb aboard some of the exhibitions and get up close and personal with some aviation history.

Since 1969 the East Coast Museum of Technology has been showcasing technological and engineering highlights from our region. From traditional farming equipment, military vehicles, domestic appliances and, vintage IT finds, there plenty to see.

Hop on the WA165 and enjoy a two-hour round trip to the coastal community of Muriwai. Bring your own snacks or lunch and enjoy in a picnic, before embarking back to town. As the only train in the world to cross an active airport runway, this trip is not to be missed!

Get up close and personal with the local marine life, as you pull on a pair of waders and feed wild stingrays. Accompanied by an expert guide - walk out into the ocean and be introduced to the regular stingrays that call Tatapouri bay home, you can even pet them!

For something a little bit different, check out the Gisborne Railbike Adventure. Hop on a custom-made railbike and cycle the railway tracks out of town. No balance or steering required, you just pedal and enjoy the breathtaking scenery. There are one- or three-hour routes to choose from. E-bikes are also available.

Sun-kissed lands and fertile soils have helped make Gisborne the third-largest wine-producing region in New Zealand. From award-winning Chardonnay to Chenin Blanc, Riesling, Viognier, Gewürztraminer, Pinot Gris and Malbec, there’s a beautiful variety of wine to entice every palette. Visit our top cellar doors and enjoy discovering yours!