Reblog: Things to Do in Gisborne Before Rhythm Gates Open

Here is the perfect list of things to keep you busy in Gisborne if you find yourself there around new years eve. This has got us excited to explore and make the most of our Summer vacation, hope this inspires you too! Reblogged from The Rhythm Times. November 26, 2014 by Mara Weiss

Things to Do in Gisborne Before Rhythm Gates Open Rhythm and Vines festival gates don’t open till 5pm. So what can you do before this. Gisborne is one of the most stunning towns in New Zealand, enriched in culture and unique activities that is a must-do on your visit. We enlisted the help of a Gissy local to list off four outdoor must-dos while in Gisborne.

Rere Rockslide Rere Rockslide brings back the childhood memory of skimming down a grassy hill perched on a piece of cardboard… and takes it to a whole new level. This 60m smooth, angled rock wall lends itself perfectly to tractor tyre tubes, boogie boards, and even air mattresses. A little care is suggested when attempting the ride. The nearby Rere Falls, swimming hole and picnic area is a favourite hangout, and usually packed in summer. Come early and make a day of it! Takes just under an hour to drive there, but well worth it. Rere Rockslide is a part of the Wharekopae River. Head south on State Hwy 2, direction Napier. At the big roundabout turn right toward Patutahi, and stay on Wharekopae Road all the way there, 50 km from Gisborne. Surf Pines If you have room to bring your board when you come to Gizzy, you won’t regret it. Wainui Beach is a fairly exposed beach and reef break that is usually a safe bet and works all around the year. Offshore winds blow from the west. The surf breaks are Pines, Schools, Stockroute and Whales. Waves at the beach are both lefts and rights. Best around mid tide when the tide is rising. Pines is a lovely spot, teeming with people in the summer; bring a picnic. Park at the Surf Club or there are a couple of lots just past it. Ice creams and fast food across the road at the Okitu Dairy. Kaiti Hill For the best panoramic view of Gisborne and Poverty Bay, hit up Gizzy’s most prominent landmark, Kaiti Hill. Only a hop, skip and a jump from downtown Gizzy. Kaiti Hill is located past the wharf and harbour, turn right on Hirini St. You can drive up the hill, but there are also popular walking and cycling trails. If you are craving a cardio workout, you can’t beat the Kaiti Hill stairs! Titirangi (Maori name) is an ancestral site of the Ngati Oneone hapu (sub-tribe). It’s where Captain James Cook first came ashore in October 1769. At the base of the hill is the marae Te Poho-o-Rawiri. Morere Hot Springs The Morere Hot Springs are a well-hidden treat for the senses. Beautiful hot and cold springs set amidst 364 hectares of rainforest. The springs exude 250,000 litres a day of hot ancient sea water, known for its therapeutic values. Don’t bother with the family-friendly pools down below; walk up the short forest track to the Nikau Pools. These are more secluded. Here you will find two hot pools at different temperatures and a cold plunge pool, with changing rooms right there. An amazing way to thoroughly relax. The Hot Springs open every day at 10am (except Christmas Day). Closing time 8.30pm in the summer holidays. Late access by arrangement. Located about 40 min south of Gisborne on State Hwy 2. Adults $10. There are also private pools you can hire for $12 per half hour.