I thought I could at least offer a comment on my local area, and hope it may help others checking a mission.
In short, this is one of the most isolated areas in NZ, and like most of NZ its chilled (w ater and people!). You've seen the map but it doesnt show the mountain ranges. Be prepared for long winding mountain roads.(its 3-4 hours drive from Gis to next city in any direction!). Youll need a car and camping gear for the best of it.
On the world scale the waves are average. Average surf is 2-5ft Winter (bring 4-5mm steamer); 0-3ft Summer (bring a springie). Few spots handle 6ft+, few spots are world class. Like anywhere, better known spots get crowded. The standard of surfing is the best in NZ but locals are generally cool.
Trip: The Endless Summer 63-73
By DrC123, From 1963-11-15 to 2007-06-07
The Swinging Sixties:
"It was the best of times it was the worst of times it was the 60's!" From the crack of a 6.5 millimeter Carcarmo on November 22nd 1963 to July 20th 1969 and the roar of the mighty Saturn 5' More...
USA dude
If you're from the US, you'll have to show even harder that you're a good dude, it's true. But just be humble, not loud, be respectful, not arrogant, if you don't like brown people, then you won't like Gisborne and many places in NZ (apart from a few rednecks havens), but if you're open, then you'll find nice people, good weather and sometimes nice waves. Don't expect insane or world class surf...because you won't find it there. For that, go to Taranaki, Raglan, Wairarapa or Shippies. If you're respectful, open, and come for the right reasons, then I'm sure you'll like the place, like anywhere in NZ. cheers bro.
comment by anonymous, 2005-11-21 07:27:13
Gisborne is not spelt 'Gisbourne' as shown on the map on this web site.SRM suck each others nuts
comment by biggest local...no, I'm bigger so sit down, 2005-10-10 10:13:00
Seppo
Yes, you're right "dude" but I'll give some tips anyhoo.Go to Scotty's Bar and Grill on a Saturday night. Everything about Gizzy will be LOUD and clear.Drink Steinlager (in any city in NZ). Try Gisborne Gold if you like smooth natural, batch brewed beer. I'd say it is the best beer in the world but people from other places laugh and imagine cat piss in a plastic bag.Eat a makatu pie.Eat Kina until you have aquired the taste, they really are nice. Be sure to slurp up the guts.Jump off the Tolaga Bay warf and try to get your splash higher that the warf. Can be good waves there too, use your eyes.Don't piss anyone off. By that I mean don't talk, not a peep. Your accent will be recognized and you'll have no credibility with the chicks (who only come out in summer anyway). Who knows where they go for the rest of the yearGeorge W is a dickhead, how can USA be represented by such a goose? economy is falling apart, more and more suicide attacks... targeting Australia. I'm going to charge Sri Lanka next year because Bali is too sketchy, travel insurance is well um...thanks USA! Bush your a dickhead.
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comment by Anonymous, 2008-05-13 18:34:59