Excursion Gisborne town & coastal drive tour at Gisborne

Discover the spectacular beauty and landmarks of Gisborne during this panoramic orientation drive.

Gisborne, Sightseeing Drive, Captain Cook Landing Spot

Depart the pier with your driver-guide for the scenic, approximately 1.5-hour drive through sunny Gisborne, a pleasant way to spend the day taking in the best of the city's most popular attractions and coastal sights. New Zealand's most easterly city, Gisborne played an important role in European history, as it was here that Captain James Cook first set foot in New Zealand in 1769. A popular vacation destination, Gisborne is known for its rustic charms and picturesque scenery. The shores of Gisborne are legendary for their beauty and history. Drive past the spot where Captain Cook, the English explorer, first landed and met the native Maori people.

Marae, Titirangi Hill, Poverty Bay, Young Nick's Head, Wainui and Okitu Beaches, Lysnar Reserve

Next, travel up Titirangi (Kaiti) Hill for a photo stop. En route, pass by a stately Marae (Maori meeting-house), considered to be the largest in New Zealand. Upon reaching the top of Titirangi Hill, take in spectacular panoramic views over Poverty Bay and Young Nick's Head, the first piece of land sighted by James Cook's crew and named for the young lad who spotted it, as well as your anchored ship in the harbour. Continue along the shoreline to admire two of the area's premier beaches, Wainui and Okitu, which are renowned for their impressive waves and draw top surfers to their sands. After a photo stop at the sand dunes of the Lysnar Reserve, re-board your coach and head to Gisborne's idyllic rural area.

Orchards, Vineyards, Plains, Farmland, Grazing Sheep, Gladstone Road

Thirty percent of all wines produced in New Zealand come from this region. Drive along roads bordered by sweet-smelling orchards, award-winning vineyards and lush, fertile plains. In addition, see fields dotted with adorable fluffy sheep happily grazing beside quaint farmhouses. Returning to the city, drive down the main shopping street, the tree-lined Gladstone Road. Named after former British Prime Minister William Ewart Gladstone, this boulevard houses boutiques, souvenir stores brimming with handcrafted gifts, surf shops and colourful outdoor cafes that are ideal for a bite to eat and people watching. Following your tour, you may opt to return directly to the pier, or remain in town for shopping and further exploration, and return to the ship on your own.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Gisborne, Captain Cook Landing Spot, Marae, Titirangi Hill, Poverty Bay, Young Nick's Head, Beaches, Lysnar Reserve, Orchards, Vineyards, Plains, Gladstone Road

Note

Please note: This tour involves a minimal amount of walking, at times over gravel surfaces, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach. This tour is suitable for guests with limited mobility, but is not wheelchair-accessible. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection and a weatherproof coat or jacket from the ship. The tour sequence may vary. Space on this tour is extremely limited; we suggest you book well in advance to avoid disappointment.