Gisborne

Gisborne holds the unique distinction of being the first city in the world to greet the sun each day. Its Māori name, "Tairāwhiti," beautifully captures this, meaning "The coast upon which the sun shines across the water."
This coastal city is steeped in history. Kaiti Beach is a site of double significance—it's where the Māori waka, Horouta, first landed, and also the initial landing place for Europeans in New Zealand when Captain James Cook arrived in 1769. European settlement began in 1831, and the town was officially named in 1870 after the Colonial Secretary, Hon. William Gisborne.
While Gisborne is famous for its incredible surf and beautiful beaches, which contribute to its famously laid-back vibe, a deeper look reveals some of the country's most important historical sites. It's a place where you can enjoy a relaxed coastal lifestyle while standing on ground that shaped New Zealand's history.