Tairāwhiti (the coast upon which the sun shines across the water) is the first place in
the world to see the light of the new day. Spanning from the top of the East Cape to the treasures of Turanganui-a-Kiwa
Gisborne, the captivating mix of destinations in Tairāwhiti is as breathtaking for first-
time visitors as it is for those who frequently journey to these shores.
Culture
If you have a strong interest in Maori culture then Tairāwhiti is must for a visit.
Kaiti Beach is the site of Captain Cook’s first landing in New Zealand (9
October 1769)and nearby is the picturesque Te Poho O Rawiri Marae. Oral
history records Titirangi (Kaiti) Hill as the point of arrival for the migratory
waka (canoe), Horouta, which brought the first Māori to the area.
Fishing
Gisborne is home to one of the biggest fishing clubs in the country and the area is
renowned for big kingfish as well as crayfish and snapper.
