Where I'd Rather Be: Gisborne

Taking in the sunrise at Wainui Beach. Gisborne. Photo / Strike Photography

Tairāwhiti Gisborne is famous for catching New Zealand's first sunrise each day - from Maunga Hikurangi, or the East Cape Lighthouse - and its beautiful outdoors opportunities - to stretch your legs, try the pathways that run through Eastwoodhill arboretum, stroll down the Ūawa Tolaga Bay Wharf, or take the two and a half-hour Cooks Cove Walk, which will take you to the spot where James Cook and the Endeavour stopped in 1769 during his navigation around New Zealand. In between, refresh yourself at these stops.

Where to eat in Gisborne

Start the day right with bagels at Frank and Albie's. Served fresh and open-faced, choose from whipped feta, home pickled sumac onions, and classic salmon variations.

Flagship Eatery is housed in a gorgeous bright space, and serves up house-made crumpets, kimchi pancakes and omelettes with harissa and grilled cheese.

Where to drink in Gisborne

Smash Palace

is very much Gisborne's home of live music, and has been for more than 25 years. They host regular gigs and events, such as the weekly pub choir and Thursday's Build-a-Band jam event. Check their website for what's upcoming.

If it's cocktails and fine wine you're looking for, the

USSCo

is open for dinner and drinks every evening (and a daily happy hour from 5), and is housed in beautiful surroundings - the historic Union Steam Ship Company building.

Another sweet spot is

Dome Bar & Cinema

, where you can book a table or beanbag, and curl up with cocktails to watch the latest screening, including art-house and retro flicks.

Enjoying a drop, Gisborne. Photo / Strike Photography

Where to stay in Gisborne

Tatapouri Bay is a 10-minute drive from Gisborne, right on the beachfront. This is a family holiday park that offers campsites, luxurious bell tents, outdoor spas, a kids' playground and traditional Swedish outdoor saunas. There's a boat ramp and fish cleaning station for those who want to spend the days on the water, and a beach-front cafe.