Ruatoria

Ruatoria is the main hub of the East Coast region, a ruggedly beautiful area where the green hills of the Raukumara Range roll down to the Pacific. This is Ngāti Porou country, and the town pulses with Māori culture and tradition. It’s a place for travellers seeking an authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience, with dramatic coastal scenery, powerful surf, and a deep sense of history.

Highlights & What to See

• East Cape Lighthouse – The world’s first to see the sunrise; a steep walk rewards you with epic 360° views of the coastline.
• Te Araroa – Home to the largest pōhutukawa tree in New Zealand, a magnificent natural monument.
• Hicks Bay – A stunning crescent of golden sand, perfect for a picnic or a bracing swim.
• St Mary’s Church, Tikitiki – A beautifully carved Māori Anglican church, adorned with intricate tukutuku panels and stained glass.
• Whale Rider filming locations – Visit the iconic sites from the film around Whangara, south of Ruatoria.
• Surfing at Tolaga Bay – Legendary left-hand breaks draw surfers from around the world.

Suggested Time to Spend

Set aside at least two full days to explore Ruatoria and the East Cape. One day is enough for the town and its immediate surrounds, but you’ll want a second to drive the coastal loop to East Cape Lighthouse, Te Araroa, and Hicks Bay. If you’re a surfer or keen on hiking, budget three days. The area rewards a slow pace, so don’t rush.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Gisborne City – The region’s largest town, famous for its wineries, surf beaches, and the annual Rhythm & Vines festival.
• Eastland – The broader East Cape region, encompassing remote beaches, Māori marae, and the dramatic Raukumara Range.
• Te Urewera – A vast, ancient rainforest with excellent tramping and the stunning Lake Waikaremoana.
• Napier & Hawke’s Bay – A few hours south, offering Art Deco architecture, world-class wineries, and the gannet colony at Cape Kidnappers.

Please check official sources for current details.