After the excellent tour from Rotorua to Gisborne I had a quite cozy and relatively cheap accommodation at a campsite in a hut in Gisborne. Due to my still existing jetlag I could get up quite early again and continue my trip. The choice this time was to drive further south, or rather to drive west. I decided for the direction west, because in the end not so many choices existed regarding the roads and drove in the direction of Himatangi Beach to the west coast. In between I made a stop in Napier on the east coast.
Embarking on a road trip from Gisborne, the first city in the world to see the sunrise, to Himatangi Beach, the wide and windswept jewel of the lower North Island, is a journey across the heart of Aotearoa. This adventure takes you from the remote beauty of the East Cape, through fertile plains and bustling towns, past mountain ranges and rivers, before finally arriving at the Tasman Sea. In this video, we take you along the route from Gisborne to Himatangi Beach, uncovering the sights, landscapes, and stories that make this drive so memorable.
Our journey begins in Gisborne, a city rich in history and sunshine. Famous as the place where Captain Cook first made landfall in New Zealand, it is also known for its laid-back lifestyle, surf beaches like Wainui and Midway, and its outstanding wine region. Before leaving, a sunrise over the Pacific is almost a ritual – a moment where you stand among the first people in the world to greet the new day.
Heading inland, the road passes through the Poverty Bay flats, one of New Zealand’s most productive agricultural regions, before climbing toward the rugged hills and forests of the East Coast interior. The drive to Wairoa is scenic and winding, with views of rivers, valleys, and farmland. Wairoa itself, sitting on the banks of the Wairoa River, is a gateway to Lake Waikaremoana, a vast and mystical lake in Te Urewera, known for its multi-day Great Walk and pristine wilderness.
Continuing south, you reach Hawke’s Bay, a region renowned for its Mediterranean climate, orchards, and vineyards. The cities of Napier and Hastings offer contrasting experiences: Napier with its world-famous Art Deco architecture and seaside promenade, Hastings with its food and wine culture. This is a perfect place to pause, enjoy a wine tasting, or wander among orchards heavy with fruit.
From Hawke’s Bay, the route heads inland again, climbing over the Ruahine and Tararua Ranges, where winding roads pass through forested slopes and rural settlements. The landscape changes as you descend into the Manawatū region, a mix of rolling farmland, fertile river plains, and small country towns. The drive is punctuated by scenic lookouts, rushing rivers, and the constant presence of big New Zealand skies.
At the heart of Manawatū lies Palmerston North, a lively university city set on the banks of the Manawatū River. It’s a place to refuel, explore local parks and museums, or simply enjoy the bustling atmosphere of a town that blends youthful energy with rural roots. From here, it’s only a short drive westward toward the coast – and to the end of our journey.
Finally, the road reaches Himatangi Beach, where the Tasman Sea stretches endlessly before you. Known for its wide, windswept sands and spectacular sunsets, Himatangi is a beloved spot for both locals and visitors. Fishermen cast their lines into the surf, families picnic among the dunes, and in the evening, the horizon glows with fiery colors as the sun dips below the sea. After traveling from the Pacific shores of Gisborne, there is something profoundly satisfying about ending the journey on the western coast, watching the day fade over the Tasman.
Practical tips: The drive from Gisborne to Himatangi Beach is long, taking 7–8 hours without extended stops, so it’s best to break the journey with overnight stays in Hawke’s Bay or Palmerston North. Be prepared for winding roads in places, especially through the ranges. Each region along the way offers its own unique experiences – from wine tasting in Napier to hiking near Lake Waikaremoana – so allow time to explore.
This road trip is more than just a journey across the North Island – it’s a crossing between coasts, from sunrise to sunset, from the raw beauty of the Pacific to the rolling waves of the Tasman. It’s a journey through landscapes that tell the story of New Zealand – volcanic soils, fertile plains, rugged mountains, and two very different seas.
👉 If you enjoyed this road trip from Gisborne to Himatangi Beach, don’t forget to like the video, subscribe to the channel, and hit the bell icon for more New Zealand adventures. Have you driven this route or explored these regions? Share your favorite memories in the comments – we’d love to hear from you!