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The East Cape is most popular with tourists in summer when holidaymakers, both local and from around the country, come to take time out by relaxing at the beach. Once you leave Opotiki for Gisborne the trip takes you either through the Raukumara Range or right around the East Cape via the Pacific Coast Highway. The East Cape is an area of stunning, remote beaches, isolated villages and a natural, wild beauty.

Gisborne

Gisborne lies on the most easterly part of the North Island and boasts that Mount Hikurangi is the first place in the world to see the sun.  Although Gisborne is somewhat geographically isolated from other towns, it is still a favourite destination for many families to enjoy the sunshine over the summer school holidays.

Opotiki

With a choice of white sandy beaches, most visitors come to enjoy the laid-back feeling of this town. Opotiki is the start of the Pacific Coast Highway (State Highway 35) that winds around 330 kilometres of coastal roads to Gisborne.

Te Puia Springs

Following the winding road of State Highway 35, between the Cape and Gisborne, is Te Puia Springs. The hot springs are the main attraction of the town.