Eastland

Eastland, the rugged easternmost corner of New Zealand's North Island, is a land of wild coastlines, ancient forests, and deep Māori heritage. This is where the sun first touches the country each day, and the region's remote beauty feels a world away from the tourist trail. Here, you'll find empty beaches, dramatic cliffs, and a rich cultural tapestry woven from the stories of the indigenous Ngāti Porou people. It's a place for slow travel, where the journey itself—along winding coastal roads and through sleepy towns—is the reward.

Highlights & What to See

• Tolaga Bay Wharf – Stroll the 660-metre-long wooden wharf, one of the longest in the Southern Hemisphere, and soak up the serene estuary views.
• East Cape Lighthouse – Hike to the lighthouse at the tip of the cape for breathtaking sunrise views over the Pacific—the first light of day in New Zealand.
• Te Araroa – Visit the ancient, gnarly Te Waha o Rerekohu pōhutukawa tree, said to be over 600 years old, and learn its Māori legends.
• Hicks Bay & Lottin Point – Discover secluded beaches and dramatic headlands, perfect for a picnic or a bracing coastal walk.
• Raukōkore Marae – Gain insight into Māori culture with a guided tour of this beautifully carved meeting house (book ahead).
• Whale Rider Country – Visit the filming locations of the iconic movie Whale Rider around Whangara, a short drive north of Gisborne city.

Suggested Time to Spend

Dedicate at least two days to properly explore Eastland. The loop from Gisborne city up to East Cape and back is roughly 300 km of winding roads, so plan to drive it over two days with an overnight stop in Te Araroa or Hicks Bay. If you're short on time, a full-day dash to the lighthouse and back is doable but rushed—better to take it slow and soak in the coastal vibes.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Gisborne City – The gateway to Eastland, known for its wineries, surf beaches, and the famous Tairawhiti Museum.
• Te Urewera – A vast, untouched wilderness of native forests and lakes, ideal for hiking and kayaking (west of Gisborne).
• Mahia Peninsula – A stunning coastal detour with excellent surfing, fossil hunting, and a relaxed beach-town atmosphere.
• Waioeka Gorge – A scenic drive through native bush and river valleys on the way to Opotiki, linking to the Bay of Plenty.

Please check official sources for current details.