Over the last few years Eastland has revealed itself as a surprisingly attractive area to spend a holiday. From Opotiki through to Gisborne there are numerous beautiful, isolated beaches and the scenery is absolutely stunning. State Highway 35 requires frequent stops at numerous scenic lookouts. Eastland prides itself in being the first in the world to see the sun rise over the Pacific Ocean. Visitors are therefore urged to getting up at dawn to capture this amazing picture.

The culture is predominately Maori on this coastal route and the hospitality shown is unique. Mount Hikurangi (1754 meters) is a very sacred mountain to the Maori people and one of the main attractions for the East Coast. A hike or a 4x4 trip up this impressive mountain is an adventure as is a thrilling boat ride up the Moto river. Surf casting is a hit all around 'the coast'.

A big attraction is the East Cape Lighthouse at the little township of Te Araroa where also the worlds largest Pohutukawa tree is to be found. Culturally interesting are the many Marae (meeting houses), the beautifully carved St Mary's church in TikiTiki, the idyllic Raukokore church on the rocks and Cook's Cove and Wharf in Tologa Bay.

Coastline shops offer original products like locally grown Macademia Nuts in Whanarua Bay and Manuka Honey in Te Araroa. These shops also have café facilities for a great cappuccino or Earl Gray. Quality accommodation is to be found around the whole of the coastal highway. From affordable backpackers and motor camps to luxury apartments. Te Kaha, Whanarua Bay and Anaura Bay offer some stunning seaside accommodation and in Gisborne accommodation options are plentiful.

Besides the scenery, that which itself is stunning, there are many things to do. For example horse trekking on the beaches and hills of the East Coast has been stated as the best in the country. Tatapouri, near Gisborne, offers many sea related activities such as shark cage diving and stingray feeding. Other fishing outfits offer fantastic sea adventures and surfing is a 'Must-Do' in New Zealand's surf capital, Gisborne. Gisborne is a hidden pearl and with its winery and layed back atmosphere, a perfect holiday destination.

It sometimes seems that in this unspoiled and remote part of New Zealand time stands still. The locals live in peace with nature and love people visiting this part of the island. It is therefore recommended that you take your time when travelling Eastland. But do visit, because there is no one who will regret having been part of Eastlands unequalled paradise!