FROM THE ROAD: East Cape to the Lakes
When was the last time you visited the East Cape?
With our February departure of the East Cape to the Lakes tour approaching, I realised that although we’ve run tours through this region before, I hadn’t personally experienced it in some time. So over Labour Weekend I whisked the family away on a little recce trip. What a weekend it turned out to be. Labour Weekend delivered clear blue skies and warm weather, and I finally understood how Gisborne stole (and holds) the title of New Zealand’s sunniest city from Nelson.
Day 1 – Rotorua
We kicked off with a night in Princes Gate Hotel in Rotorua — the same hotel we’ll use on our February tour. It’s a lovely, historic property, full of character. From the outside you’ll spot classic heirlooms of days gone by, and inside the rooms are beautifully presented. The restaurant served us a memorable dinner. I’m very proud to be supporting Princes Gate on our tour.
Day 2 – Eastwards to the Coast
After Rotorua, we travelled through the gorge to the East Coast, stopping at Rere Falls and then moving on to Eastwoodhill Arboretum. That place really blew me away – a park-like setting of international trees, spread across 300 acres (though we only scratched the surface). Our horticulturist guide told us there are 72 different pine species here alone, out of only 101 worldwide (or thereabouts). It speaks volumes about how fertile and special our part of the world is.
Arrival to Gisborne
Next stop was Gisborne, where we stayed for two nights at Ahikaa Motel. Owner Katie was absolutely delightful and offered to host a BBQ dinner for our group when we arrive on tour. Perfect end to a day! The motel itself is beautifully presented and right across the road from the beach. Gisborne has done a great job creating a relaxing boardwalk that stretches from the beach into the harbour. With our tour staying three nights here, we slow the pace and settle into real holiday mode.
Exploring More of Gisborne
We took a walk up Mount Titirangi (the hill at the harbour’s edge) for panoramic views of flats and water. We visited the Tairāwhiti Museum and were impressed with how effectively they tell the story of East Cape and Gisborne.
One highlight: we treated the family (well, partly the family treats me!) to the stingray encounter at Tatapouri. Grandma Jill observed from the shore, 11-yr-old Zoe was initially a bit nervous, but soon we were all enthralled as the stingrays glided around us. These guides clearly have an amazing connection with the creatures. We include this experience on the tour, but if you have balance issues, we can refund this optional part of the cost.
Lunch at Matawhero Vineyard was a treat — lunch in the vines, sunshine, blue skies… doesn’t get much better. Dinner in the Sports Club overlooking the boats and, in particular, the M.V. Takatimu, which we venture out on on the tour.
The Iconic East Cape Drive
Sunday, we set off for a drive around the East Cape. I assessed it: one of the prettiest drives in New Zealand. The rugged coastline, hidden bays, and (oh!) the paua pie at the Café 35 in Tokomaru Bay were a highlight. I grew up with horses and was delighted to see so many beautiful ponies scattered around this region – more than I’ve ever seen in one place in NZ, especially palominos and skewbalds.
We stopped by the charming St Mary’s Church, Tikitiki (where Māori influences in the design are astounding) and walked the length of our country’s longest wharf at Tolaga Bay (660 metres). We then drove out to Te Kaha for an overnight stay.
Te Kaha & Homeward Bound
Our accommodation at Te Kaha offered stunning ocean views — a perfect place to enjoy a glass of wine and reflect on an incredible day. On Labour Monday, we started heading back toward Auckland, stopping at the Awakeri Railcart Experience. Owner, Paul, took us on a ride along old tracks, we fed friendly farm animals, patted a red deer called “Lucky”, admired astounding kāhikatea trees and enjoyed tea in his outback shed.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the family had a lovely weekend exploring and appreciating many of the wonderful inclusions in our East Cape to the Lakes tour. We’ll of course also visit Lake Waikaremoana on the tour in February (I had the pleasure of visiting it earlier) — arguably one of the most special places in our country.
If you’ve never been to this region (or visited long ago) you should give yourself a new talking point and join us. It truly is a spectacular piece of New Zealand. Our tour departs 5 – 11 February 2026, and we still have availability. Click on the link below to view the itinerary or get in touch to book your space — before it’s too late.
