The East Cape was the first part of New Zealand to be explored by Europeans, yet it remains one of the most isolated areas of the North Island today. This area of New Zealand has some nice beaches around Gisborne and is also home to the largest national park in the North Island, Te Urewera National Park.
The Hawke's Bay to the south also enjoys a warm climate and is a major fruit growing area. It is home to both Napier City and Hastings. Cape Kidnappers, further to the south, is a popular spot containing some spectacular rugged cliffs and it is also a protected bird sanctuary.
Remote, rugged, immense, the Aniwaniwa area covers the southern part of Te Urewera National Park, including Lake Waikaremoana.
From Cape Runaway in the north down to the Waikare River in the south, the Gisborne area offers a number of wilderness and recreational opportunities for people of all ages and abilities.
From the northern part of Te Urewera National Park, to the rugged Raukumara Range and the stunning coastline of the Eastern Bay of Plenty, the Opotiki area is a great place for a variety of recreational activities.
Visit the world-famous Cape Kidnappers Gannet Reserve, explore the waters of the Te Angiangi Marine Reserve or take a walk on the Bell Rock Loop Track in Boundary Stream Mainland Island in the Hawke's Bay area.
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New Zealand topographic maps are available from DOC Visitor Centres
East Coast/Hawke's Bay regional information
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