2 Best Sights in Gisborne, East Coast and the Volcanic Zone

Inspired by the gardens seen on a trip to England in 1910, William Douglas Cook returned home and began planting 160 acres. His brainchild became a stunning collection of more than 600 genera of trees from around the world. In spring and summer, daffodils mass yellow; magnolias bloom in clouds of pink and white; and cherries, crab apples, wisteria, and azalea add to the spectacle. The main trails in the park can be walked in about 45 minutes. Maps and self-guided tour booklets are available. Drive west from Gisborne center on State Highway 2 toward Napier, cross the bridge, and turn at the rotary onto the Ngatapa–Rere Road. Follow it 35 km (22 miles) to the arboretum.

The first New Zealand facility to attain organic certification specializes in making fine wine from estate-grown grapes sourced from single vineyards and grown in the traditional manner using biodynamic techniques. It's a great place to sample, sit, and relax. The vineyard is signposted off State Highway 2, about 11 km (7 miles) south of Gisborne.