http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/ Welcome to Been there. Your tips on the places you know - that you love, live in or have just visited - are what make this guide. http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/15417
While you're there, you can carry on to the next bay, Eastbourne, where you can walk to the lighthouse and watch the ferries on their way to and from the South Island.]]> http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/15417 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/15330
Within the city itself is Karori Wildlife Sanctuary. There are plenty of walks, and it's a great opportunity to see some of the rarer birds (and other wildlife) of New Zealand in a natural setting (there are no cages. The birds come and go as they please).]]> http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/15330 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/15329 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/15329 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/15328 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/15328 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/15320 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/15320 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/15319 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/15319 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/15315
If you have a car, it's a good place to stay for a few days, relax and chill, and use as a base to explore this part of Northland. Stefano is Italian-born and makes the most divine pizzas that everyone eats companionably around the big table in the kitchen. Can't wait to stay there again!]]> http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/15315 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/15314
Ignore the main beach in town. Instead head north through the township and stop at Wainui beach or go over the hill to Makarori (where the surfers go).

Both beaches are beautiful and are sandfly-free (really!). There are some fantastic restaurants in Gisborne, and one of the best bookshops in NZ (Muirs). The whole East Cape is beautiful, and worth a visit if you have the time.]]> http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/15314