Gisborne New Zealand: View the Sunrise first on Earth.

Captain Cook first set foot here in 1769. European settlement was established in 1831 and the town which developed was named after Hon. William Gisborne, the Colonial Secretary, in 1870.

Filled with historic and scenic attractions Gisborne is loaded with places to go and things to do including:

Tairawhiti Museum - Te Whare Taonga o te Tairawhiti — Stout Street:
A must see for visitors because it has a large collection of both Maori and European artifacts. In addition to the artifacts there is also an extensive photographic collection showing the changing faces of Gisborne between the late 1800s until today.

The Star of Canada:
Part of the Gisborne Museum and Arts Centre this maritime museum is the bridgehouse and deck of The Star of Canada ship, which foundered on Kaiti Beach reef in 1912, forms part of this museum.

Wyllie Cottage:
This delightful six-room cottage, built in 1872, also part of the local museum, is one of the oldest Gisborne homes still standing. It has the distinction of being the first house built on the northern side of the Taruheru River.

Wi Pere Memorial — Reads Quay:
The memorial erected in memory of Maori leader Wi Pere, a chief of the Rongowhakaata tribe and member of Parliament from 1884-1902 in the House of Representatives and from 1902 to 1912 in the legislative council is surrounded by steps that make an ideal place to sit for lunch.

Titirangi Domain — Kaiti Hill:
This spot provides some magnificent views of the city and surrounding country from a variety of lookouts. Native tree plantings, walkways and picnic areas are features of the area.

Cook Landing Site National Historic Reserve — Kaiti Beach:
This historic landmark area marks the place where Captain James Cook Landed in October 1769.

Te Poho-o-Rawiri Marae — base of Kaiti Hill:
Home of one of the largest carved meeting houses in New Zealand, the interior has excellent examples of carving, weaving and painted art in traditional Maori style. Permission is need to grant access to this national treasure.

After experiencing all the history and scenery of this nationally historic area, relax in style when the day is done in on of Gisborne 's many lodging facilities.