Gisborne comes alive during the Rhythm and Vines festival, drawing music lovers from across New Zealand and beyond. But if you're looking to explore more than just the festival vibes—or want to balance out your R&V experience with some affordable adventures—this concise guide is for you. From sun-soaked beaches to lush waterfalls, Gisborne offers plenty of low-cost activities to fill your days without emptying your wallet.
1. Catch Waves or Relax at Gisborne’s Stunning Beaches
No trip to Gisborne is complete without experiencing our pristine coastline. Pack your sunscreen, grab your surfboard (or hire one from Blitz Surf Shop), and head to some of our favorite beaches:
- Wainui Beach: One of New Zealand's best known and good quality beach break beaches. When Wainui has good banks, swell and offshore winds you could have the best surf in NZ on any given day. Be aware if you are a beginner Wainui might not be the spot for you if it is crowded, pumping or both. On its day can have powerful, hollow waves and strong rip currents.
- Midway Beach: The town beaches of Midway and Waikanae face south so generally don't get as much swell as the coast beaches in the summer so is usually more mellow. Don't be fooled though, if there is swell it can get powerful and dangerous. When its small you can have the time of your life even as a beginner or intermediate surfer. Excellent beach to take the crew not far form town
- Makorori Beach: A quieter beach loved by locals, probably the most consistent surf beach in Gisborne and generally a bit mellower than Wainui. There is also limited freedom camping space here in the main carpark at the Red Bus break. Southern most spots are offshore in a NW and further North by the Makorori houses is offshore in northerly and reasonably clean in a NE wind too. Northern Makorori is an excellent spot to hang on a hot day
Don’t have the gear? Blitz Surf Shop has you covered with surfboards, wetsuits, surfwear, bodyboards, and more to get you festival-ready and wave-ready.
For more detail on Gisborne surf breaks check out our handy Gisborne Surf Guide
2. Explore the Magic of Rere Rockslide and Rere Falls
Take a short 30-40 minute drive from Gisborne to experience nature’s waterpark at the Rere Rockslide. This natural rock formation turns into an epic waterslide, offering endless fun. Don’t forget a bodyboard, tractor inner tube or inflatable for extra speed (and cushioning!). This place is a must-do and really unique to Gisborne
After your thrills at the rockslide, cool off at Rere Falls, a picturesque waterfall perfect for a photo op or a refreshing dip. Both spots are free to visit, making them a must for budget travelers.
There is also the "Champagne Pools" swimming spot just a short drive up the road form the rockslide. Not signposted but you should be able to find it.
Blitz Surf Shop has both bodyboards and tractor tyre inner tubes available for rent for use at the rockslide.
Do expect it to be busy during RnV and most of summer but it is still an epic few hours of fun
3. Nature Walks with Stunning Views
Gisborne boasts several walking tracks that offer breathtaking scenery and tranquility. A few highlights include:
- Eastwoodhill Arboretum: While there’s a small entry fee, this sprawling collection of trees and plants is worth it. Pack a picnic and enjoy a serene afternoon. Go and chill away from the chaos at RnV and recharge before your next night raging
- Cooks Cove Walkway: A moderate walk with rewarding views of the coastline and the historic cove where Captain Cook first landed. Head up to Tolaga Bay around 50kms north of Gisborne and park up at the entranc eof Cooks Cove near the historic wharf
- Titirangi Domain (Kaiti Hill): A short but steep walk with panoramic views of Gisborne city and the ocean. Perfect for sunrise or sunset. Get your grind on up Kaiti Hill to get rid of some of those toxins before you start reloading!
- Greys Bush: Right near the RnV campsite. A short walk in a bunch of native trees to go relax and hang out. Please don't go drinking in here and leaving your rubbish. Go and enjoy a bit of peace and tranquility
4. Chill by the Rivers
Gisborne’s rivers are an underrated gem for relaxation. The Taraheru River is great for kayaking or paddleboarding, and the Waimata River offers quiet spots for picnics or even a lazy swim. The railway bridge between the wharf and town is very rarely used by trains but is a designated jumping spot for bombing.
If you’re after a SUP tp padele the river, check out the deals on stand-up paddleboards at Blitz Surf Shop before heading out. Or come and hire a SUP from us
5. Local Eats on a Budget
Exploring Gisborne doesn’t have to break the bank when it comes to food. Check out these local gems for affordable and delicious bites:
- Neptunes Pizza: The best takeaway pizzas in Gisborne, but also a small seated area. Usually opened at night but they change to mid-morning to early afternoon during the festival. Find them here https://neptunespizza.com/
- The Wharf Bar and Café: Bar style food and cold drinks in an epic location at the wharf, over the road from Blitz Surf Shop . Check them out here https://wharfbar.co.nz/
- PBC Cafe: Indoor and outdoor dining with generous helpings of food. Be prepared for a bit of a wait when it gets busy but well worth it and a nice place to chill. Check out the PBC Cafe here
- Bollywood: If you’re craving Indian flavors, their curries are flavorful and reasonably priced. Long opening hours with more days than most eateries in Gisborne. Well worth a look. https://bollywood.co.nz/
- Flagship Cafe: Probably my favourite cafe for good quality food in Gisborne. Not far form the railway bridge that takes you to the wharf. https://www.flagshipeatery.co.nz/
- For more eating options and more detail check out our blog here on places to get takeaways after your surf or retaurants in Gisborne, including both higher and lower budget places.
6. Visit Blitz Surf Shop for Festival Essentials
Before hitting the festival or the waves, swing by Blitz Surf Shop in Gisborne. We stock everything from surf gear and beachwear to hooded towels (perfect for drying off after Rere Rockslide) and sunglasses to keep you festival-ready. Jandals, jorts, boardshorts, bikinis and much more. Whether you’re a surfer or just need a cool festival outfit, we’ve got you covered.
For more activities to do in and around Gisborne check out our blogs here:
5 great activities to do while visiting Gisborne
Things to do in Gisborne for families
Looking for some clothing unique to this region?
While you're in Gisborne check out the unique Wai-Tai Aotearoa clothing brand. Inspired by our love of the Moana, Wai-Tai is steeped in inspiration from Te Ao Maori. Designed by local Ta moko artists Henare Brooking and Maia Gibbs. At the time fo writing Wai-Tai is available exclusively at Blitz Surf Shop and online here Wai-Tai kakahu Follow Wai-Tai Aotearoa here on Instagram
Make the Most of Your R&V Adventure
Rhythm and Vines may bring you to Gisborne, but it’s our natural beauty, surf culture, and friendly community that will make you want to stay. With these budget-friendly activities, you can experience the best of Gisborne without breaking the bank.
Ready to hit the waves or explore the outdoors? Visit us at Blitz Surf Shop to gear up for your Gisborne adventure. See you out there! 🌊
