Meet in Gisborne
By
Adam Leggett
Top Meeting Spot: Gisborne
Gisborne has a long history of hosting significant events — from the
first historic meeting between Maori and Europeans in 1769 through to
modern day conferences, sporting events and concerts.
Over the last five years, several new conference facilities and high-end
accommodation providers have opened in Gisborne, offering even more
options for your group event.
Gisborne City photo by Gray Clapham
Location
Gisborne Airport is only 3km west of the city and the city itself is
well-centered between
Auckland (499 km),
Rotorua (286 km) and
Wellington
(538km).
Dubbed the ‘city of bridges,’ Gisborne sits on the Waimata and Taruheru
Rivers. The main street is Gladstone Road, where most of the shops and
services can be found. The main beaches lie south and north of the
township.
Gisborne's heart is centred around the inner harbour basin and city
centre. It's easy to meet in Gisborne. Most venues are within walking
distance of hotels, motels, shops, restaurants and the beach, so your
delegates will spend their time networking, enjoying activities,
shopping or relaxing — not sitting in traffic.
Venues
Gisborne has a diverse range of venues, including a new conference
centre, historic homesteads, luxury lodges, a large capacity event
centre, boutique wineries and stunning outdoor venues.
The Emerald Hotel has four conference rooms for up to 350 delegates.
Other venues include the Gisborne Showgrounds Events Centre and local
motels and restaurants.
At over 1200 square metres, Showgrounds Park Event Centre is Gisborne's largest venue, seating up to 1000, or 1700 standing.
After Work
Wineries and Vineyards
Although famous for producing incredible Chardonnays, Gisborne also
produces a wide range of other exceptional wine varieties —
Gewürztraminer, Viognier, Pinot Gris, Merlot and a raft of other
reds. Gisborne wines are world-renowned for their distinctive, intense
fruit flavours and easy drinking style.
Vineyard in Gisborne photo courtesy of Tourism Gisborne
The Beach
Catch a surf session at one of Gisborne's popular surf beaches along the
east cape of Opotiki to Gisborne town and on to Mahia and Wairoa.
Walk to the reef to feed wild stingrays — sure to be one of the best brag stories your guests will take home from Gisborne.
Culture
Visit the historical sites in Gisborne city where Captain Cook first
landed in New Zealand in 1769. Learn the history of the arrival of the
earliest Maori settlers over 700 years ago. Head ‘up the coast’ to
experience the beautiful Pacific Coast Highway. Stroll down the
historical Tolaga Bay Wharf while learning the rich history of our early
visitors. Take a walk to beautiful Cook’s Cove, where the crew of
Endeavour stopped to take on supplies.
Enter the draw to win 2 nights at the Portside Hotel!
