Gisborne is a beautiful part of New Zealand with some of the most stunning natural scenery in the country. It’s popular with all types of visitors, including hikers and nature lovers. With its abundant forests, rugged coastlines and abundant wildlife, Gisborne is an ideal place for hiking. Here’s a guide to the best trails Gisborne has to offer.
The Wainui Beach Track
The Wainui Beach Track is one of Gisborne’s most popular hiking trails. The track follows the coastline from Wainui Beach to Wainui River, with amazing views along the way. It’s a relatively easy hike with some gentle hills, and it’s suitable for all ages and fitness levels. The track is around six kilometres long, and it takes about two hours to complete.
The Tuahine Falls Track
If you’re looking for a more challenging hike, the Tuahine Falls Track is perfect. It’s a steep, six kilometre track that takes around three and a half hours to complete. The track starts at Wainui Beach and follows the Tuahine River, with dramatic waterfall views and plenty of native bush. It’s a great hike for experienced hikers and nature lovers.
The Te Puia Track
The Te Puia Track is a stunning six kilometre track that takes around two and half hours to complete. It follows the Te Puia River, with lush native bush and stunning views of the river and surrounding hills. It’s a great hike for all ages and fitness levels, and there’s plenty of wildlife to spot along the way. It’s a popular track for experienced hikers too, as it’s a great way to get up close to nature.
Before you head out on a hike in Gisborne, it’s important to make sure you’re properly prepared. Here are some tips to remember:
- Wear suitable clothing and footwear. Make sure you’re wearing comfortable clothing and sturdy, waterproof shoes. It’s also a good idea to bring a hat and sunscreen.
- Carry plenty of water. Make sure you have enough water for the duration of your hike as well as any snacks or meals you might need.
- Tell someone where you’re going. Let someone know your route and estimated time of return.
- Take a map. It’s a good idea to take a map of your route, as well as a compass if you’re heading into more remote areas.
- Be aware of the weather. Check the forecast before you leave, and be prepared for sudden changes in weather.
If you’re planning a hike in Gisborne, there are some essential items of gear you should take with you. Here are the most important things to pack:
- A daypack. Make sure you have a comfortable, waterproof daypack to carry your essential items.
- A first-aid kit. Include basic medical supplies in case of emergencies.
- Navigational equipment. This could include a map, compass, GPS or even a smartphone with a mapping app.
- A torch. If you’re planning on doing a lot of night hiking, a torch is essential.
- Food and snacks. Make sure you have enough food and snacks to keep you going.
Gisborne is a beautiful part of New Zealand and it’s a great destination for hikers. With its stunning scenery and abundance of trails, Gisborne is an ideal place for an outdoor adventure. Whether you’re looking for an easy stroll, a challenging hike or something in between, Gisborne has something for everyone.