Introduction
293km (182 miles) NE of Rotorua; 298km (185 miles) SE of Tauranga; 504km (312 miles) SE of Auckland
Gisborne (pop. 31,000) had its big moment when it welcomed in the first light of the new century. There were hopes that the NZ$9.5-million (US$6.74-million/£3.43-million) revamp of the city would signal a bright, rich future for the area, but I think things have pretty much reverted to the same old quiet, provincial atmosphere that always prevailed. Mind you, the beautification was much needed, and it's good to see the place looking tidier and slightly more alive.
However, the small-town atmosphere is part of Gisborne's charm, and we shouldn't overlook the fact that it is a prosperous river port city and commercial center. It moves at a relaxed pace (and some days that's an understatement) and enjoys 2,200 hours of sunshine annually with summer temperatures consistently above 77°F (25°C), often rising above 95°F (35°C).
Apart from being the country's second-largest grape-growing...
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The Works & Longbush Wines
The Thorpe family has worked its vineyards for more than 35 years and now produces three ranges of Gisborne-made wines under the Woodlands, Longbush,...
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The Milton Vineyard
Milton Vineyard was established in 1984 as New Zealand's first commercial, fully certified organic winery. It's known for its Riesling, chenin...
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Montana Wines
Established in 1934, this is New Zealand's leading winemaker and wine exporter. The company has wineries in Auckland, Marlborough, Hawkes Bay,...
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