Pacific Coast Highway

The Pacific Coast Highway (State Highway 35) is one of New Zealand's most epic coastal drives, hugging the rugged shoreline of the East Cape for over 330 kilometres. This is a journey into Māori heartland, where remote beaches, historic marae, and the country's first sunrise create a deeply authentic travel experience. The road winds past dramatic cliffs, farm-dotted hills, and tiny settlements where time seems to stand still. It's not just a drive—it's a cultural pilgrimage through the ancestral lands of Ngāti Porou, with stunning lookouts and wild surf beaches at every turn.

Highlights & What to See

• Tolaga Bay Wharf – New Zealand's longest pier (660 m) stretches into the Pacific, a photogenic relic of early 20th-century shipping.
• East Cape Lighthouse – Hike to the world's most eastern lighthouse for sunrise; you'll be among the first on the planet to see the sun.
• Ruatōria – The heart of Ngāti Porou country, with intricately carved meeting houses and a strong sense of Māori tradition.
• Hicks Bay & Te Araroa – Look for the legendary giant pohutukawa tree (the largest in NZ) and soak in hot springs at Te Puia Springs.
• Anaura Bay – A peaceful golden-sand beach with a historic pā site; Captain Cook once landed here.
• Gisborne City – Start or end your journey in the surf capital, known for its wineries and excellent cafés.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow at least two to three days to drive the full loop from Gisborne to Opotiki (or vice versa). The road is narrow, winding, and often unsealed in sections, so plan for 4–5 hours of driving each day plus plenty of stops. Most travellers break the journey overnight in Ruatōria or Te Araroa. To really soak in the culture and landscapes, consider adding a day for hiking the East Cape Lighthouse track or lingering at isolated beaches.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Gisborne City – Explore the city's wine trail, surf breaks, and the historic Cook landing site before hitting the highway.
• Eastland – The broader region encompasses the entire East Cape, with further opportunities for Māori cultural tours and coastal walks.
• Opotiki – The northern terminus of the highway, gateway to the Bay of Plenty and White Island tours.
• Waioeka Gorge – A scenic detour through native forest inland from Opotiki.

Please check official sources for current details.