Gisborne

Gisborne sits on the east coast of New Zealand's North Island, one of the first places in the world to see the sunrise each day. It's a small, relaxed town backed by wine country and framed by long Pacific beaches. Passengers tender into the inner harbour, and the main street is about a ten-minute walk from there. Locals sometimes greet cruise visitors with waka (Māori canoe) displays and kapa haka performances. Kaiti Hill gives wide views over Poverty Bay and holds the Cook Monument, marking Captain James Cook's 1769 landing. The Tairāwhiti Museum tells the region's Māori and European stories well. Gisborne's wine region is known for its Chardonnay, and several cellar doors are a short drive out of town. On the food side, try fresh oysters or hangi if it's available. The GizzyBus and taxis cover the wider area, but the town centre is compact enough to walk.