The iconic East Coast road trip

Melting ice creams, meat pies, jandals and shorts - there are just some things that are quintessentially Kiwi, like the great summer roadie! We think there's no better way to experience a true summer road trip than by loading up the car, caravan or campervan and exploring the famous State Highway 35.

Whether you're starting in Whakatāne in the north, or Gisborne in the south, driving along this iconic winding coastal road is a must-do. Take it slow and enjoy the scenery and all the special places to stop along the way. 

Take it slow, enjoy the scenery and be sure to stop at all the special places along the way.

Whakatāne and Ōhope

Whakatāne is the heart of the Eastern Bay of Plenty. From endless coastlines to ancient forests, it’s blessed with breathtaking landscapes, rich culture and plenty of sunshine - the perfect place to start or end your journey. Explore nature and connect with locals, we guarantee you'll want to stay a little longer.

Rangitāiki River Jet - A scenic and thrilling ride along Rangitāiki River to Aniwaniwa (formerly Aniwhenua) Falls.

Awakeri Rail Adventures - An historical rail trail with some surprising stops along the way.

Onepū Mountain Bike Park - Plenty of fun for first riders to experts.

Julian’s Berry Farm - Pick your own berries and play a round of mini-putt at this iconic spot.

Moutohorā Island - One of Aotearoa’s most exclusive wildlife sanctuaries and best kept secrets.

Ngā Tapuwae o Toi Trail - A spectacular walking trail to rival any of New Zealand’s Great Walks.

Tio Ōhiwa Oyster Farm - Enjoy a harbour cruise, learn about the fascinating cultural history of the area and finish with oyster shucking and tasting!

KG Kayaks - Discover secluded coves and ocean wildlife on a guided kayak tour.

Ōpōtiki to Hicks Bay

Cruising east from Ōpōtiki, you'll meander past stunning East Coast beaches and towns with views out across the Pacific Ocean. The road is windy and sheltered by Pōhutukawa which are a sight to behold if you're driving through while they're in flower - with bursts of bright red and green filling the sky as you travel south.

Mōtū Trails - One of the 23 great rides of Ngā Haerenga, New Zealand Cycle Trails. With four key trails to choose from, take a deep dive into stunning wilderness, rich history, and the early settler life of the region. 

Mōtū River Jet - Experience some awesome jet boating up the Motu River with plenty of thrills to get the heart racing! 

The Nuthouse Café - Whanarua Bay. If you're driving through in the summer months, be sure to stop in at Pacific Coast Macadamias and The Nuthouse Cafe to grab some nutty treats

Raukokore Church - This century-old Anglican church is one of the most photographed places on the East Cape, and AA Travel named it one of the region's 101 must-do sites.

Waihau Bay Lodge - Located at the top of the boat ramp at this renown fishing destination. Perfect for a drink and bite to eat while watching the boats coming in and out of this beautiful haven.

Te Araroa to Tolaga Bay

Your Kiwi road trip continues as you travel along State Highway 35 and there's plenty to see! Stop off to admire Aotearoa New Zealand's oldest and largest pōhutukawa tree - Te Waha o Rerekohu - at Kawakawa Bay in Te Araroa. Stop for a Pāua pie at Café 35 in Tokomaru Bay and don’t miss the historic wharf at Tolaga Bay and Cook’s Cove Walkway.

Te Araroa - Stop off to admire Aotearoa New Zealand's oldest and largest pōhutukawa tree - Te Waha o Rerekohu - at Kawakawa Bay

Maunga Hikurangi - The sacred mountain of the Ngāti

Porou people, and the first place in the world to see the sunrise. 

Te Puka Tavern - For over 100 years the Te Puka Tavern in Tokomaru Bay has been a place to stop and rest for travellers. A great place recharge, grab a bite to eat, and meet some of the friendly locals.

Tolaga Bay Wharf - Named as one of the top 100 historic sites in Aotearoa New Zealand, it's well worth the stop.

Cook’s Cove Walkway - It takes about 2-hours return but you'll be treated to amazing views and it's a great chance to learn about the history of the region - look out for the information panels along the walk. 
 

Tairawhiti Gisborne

As you make your way to Gisborne, you'll uncover a variety of unique experiences waiting to be explored.   Whether you seek thrilling adventures or prefer to unwind and enjoy the region's famous wineries, Gisborne has something to offer every visitor.

Dive Tatapouri - This must do is a one-of-a-kind interactive marine ecology experience.

Gisborne Railbike Adventures - Be a train conductor for the day and explore the region along unused historic train tracks.

Sunshine Brewery - A great place to sample the local brews and grab a bite to eat.

World-class Wineries - A journey to this region would be lacking without indulging in a day dedicated to the art of wine tasting. 

A few options include Wrighs Winery, Matawhero & Bushmere Estate.

Eastwoodhill National Arboretum - A sprawling wonderland of trees. Trees from all around the world have been planted here on over 131 hectares, since 1910.

Learn to surf - While there are many surf breaks along the East Coast, if you’re after a lesson or two there are several options in Gisborne, including Salt Shack Surf School & New Wave Surf School.

Where to stay along the way 

There are plenty of camp sites along the coast where you can park your camper or pitch a tent for a night or two. Many of them don't take bookings in advance, so be sure to have a back-up plan. One of the most beautiful campgrounds is Maraehako which is tucked away in a secluded bay and is a firm favourite among seasoned East Coast travellers. 

Not keen on camping? We get it - camping isn't for everyone! There are some other great accommodation options, from apartments at Ōhope Beach to Te Kaha Beach Hotel, Waihau Bay Lodge, stunning views at Lottin Point Motel, the spectacular Te Araroa Holiday Park, glamping at Tatapouri Bay and a range of options in Gisborne City.  

Visit whakatane.com and tairawhitigisborne.co.nz for a full selection of accommodation options.