Consyl Publishing & Publicity Ltd

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Home > Our Publications > New Zealand Outlook > 2008 > January

Taste summer in Gisborne and Eastland

The true spirit of a holiday

CHARDONNAY and crayfish, the perfect recipe for a perfect summer evening overlooking beautiful white sand beaches that stretch on for as far as the eye can see.
The waves gently rolling onto shore, enticing an evening swim in the warm pacific ocean. It's the simple things that make Eastland the perfect holiday destination.
Here one can truly enjoy the slower pace that is created by the relaxed and friendly locals. A place where you come to rediscover the true spirit of a New Zealand holiday.
In the heart of Eastland lies Gisborne city, home to the most historically important site in New Zealand - the first meeting place between Maori and Eurpoean.
For it was here that Captain James Cook first came ashore from the Endeavour in October 1769. This region could be viewed as the main cultural centre of New Zealand, having a population ratio that is almost equally Maori and European.
It is one of the few places in New Zealand where strong cultural affiliations are still evident in day-to-day activities of the people, and where the Maori language is a part of everyday life - alive, strong and growing.
Gisborne's Tairawhiti Polytechnic is home to New Zealand's leading school of contemporary Maori art, Toihoukura, which has it's own gallery for the exhibition of students' work.
This highly distinctive work has seen many pieces been bought by overseas buyers, who have heard of the gallery mainly through word of mouth from other collectors.
While in Gisborne you will be spoilt for choice, whether you are wanting to relax on the waterfront, in the inner harbour, with a glass of Gisborne wine or enjoy a more active holiday with one of the many soft adventure activities that beckon.
A twilight horse trek is always poplar for it's spectacular coastal views and the feeling of freedom when you gallop along the beach. Fishing is also a popular sport in the region with both trout and deep sea fishing in abundance.
And for those wanting to keep their hand in at golf, Eastland has the most golf courses per capita than any other part of New Zealand. The Poverty Bay Golf Club in Gisborne is one of the top 10 in the country, set in park like grounds and near the city beaches, a superb view of Young Nicks Head can be seen from the 14th hole.
However for a more challenging experience there are many amazing country courses with beachside greens, including one commanding superb views of Mount Hikurangi and the Pacific Ocean.
From Gisborne one can venture north around the East Coast towards Opotiki to discover many secluded bays offering perfect swimming and surfing beaches.
Venturing south travellers will come across Morere Hot Springs situated amongst the native bush and on further to Lake Waikaremoana, one of New Zealands 10 Great Walks situated in Te Urewera National Park and home to the Tuhoe, known as 'the children of the mist'.
This magical part of New Zealand, hidden from the crowds and known by few, is one of New Zealand's best kept secrets. Where ever you travel within Eastland you will be overcome with the beauty, the tranquility and the welcoming people who are so proud of their piece of paradise.
Make your next holiday a trip to Eastland and rediscover the true spirit of a New Zealand holiday.