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Gisborne Recreation
Gisborne is one of the sunniest places in New Zealand, with warm summers and mild winters.
Its natural attractions include an extensive coastline of sandy beaches with renowned surfing breaks to natural bush and farm land.
Eastland | Tourism New Zealand
Sports clubs and social groups
New Zealanders enjoy a huge range of sporting activities - the Sport New Zealand website lists everything from Aikido to Zen Do Kai! Check the site to see what’s available in Gisborne and how you can get involved. Joining a club is a great way to meet people.
Find a sport | Sport New Zealand
Outdoors
Tracks and walks
There are many opportunities to stretch your legs, clear your lungs and get close to nature on the walkways and tracks you’ll find wherever you go in New Zealand. Check the Department of Conservation site to find the great walks available in the Gisborne region.
Parks and recreation
District councils around the region provide a range of recreation facilities including sportsgrounds, parks and gardens. Your local community center may also run many different activities and groups for the community to join.
Gisborne also offers plenty of opportunities for children to play in playgrounds, including a number of skateboard parks. You can use the 'Park Finder' to find a children's playground near you.
Parks and recreation | Gisborne District Council
Park Finder | Gisborne District Council
Hunting and fishing rules
Both fishing and hunting are a big part of life for many in the Gisborne region. Check the Department of Conservation (DOC) and Fish and Game NZ websites for full information about licences and restrictions on hunting and fishing in freshwater. The Ministry of Primary Industries (MPI) has information about the rules of fishing in the sea.
It is very important to be aware of restrictions as there can be serious penalties for breaching them.
Gisborne and Central area fishing rules | MPI
Dog walking areas/ dog regulations
New Zealand has various laws about looking after and controlling dogs. District councils have their own bylaws so it pays to check the local council website for their regulations.
Dogs | Gisborne District Council
Art and culture
Museums and galleries
There are a number of museums and art galleries to visit in the Gisborne region. You'll find details of each on the NZ Museums website.
Shopping
Many of the shops in Gisborne are found on Gladstone Road.
Shopping | Gisborne Retail Therapy
Markets
You can get a taste of Gisborne's great produce direct from the local producer, at the Gisborne Farmers' market every Saturday morning.