Things to Do Along State Highway 35 – East Cape New Zealand
When you’re visiting the East Cape region of New Zealand, you’ll note that State Highway 35 is the main highway that connects through the cities along the east coast. Here’s a short list of things to do along State Highway 35 to help you get started.
Things to Do Along State Highway 35 – East Cape New Zealand
- Hicks Bay – If you’re staying with us at the Hicks Bay Motel, we welcome you to check out the Finish Line restaurant and in the evenings, the Glow Worm Grotto.
- Te Araroa – In Te Araroa, you’ll find a little place called the East Cape Manuka Company. This little area of New Zealand is famous for its coveted manuka honey production and export. At the East Cape Manuka Company, you can enjoy many kinds of manuka products or sit down with a cup of coffee to take in the beautiful scenery.
- Otiki Hill – The East Cape Lighthouse is the place to be to witness the world’s first sunrise, but you’ll want to get up early to make it from Hicks Bay. And bring your walking shoes, because there’s a few steps to climb to the top!
- Tikitiki – Tikitiki is home to St. Mary’s Church; dedicated as a WWI memorial to the Māori men who fought bravely and died in battle. St. Mary’s Church is nicknamed “Tikitiki’s Jewel” for its exquisite stained-glass windows and detailed carvings on the inside.
- Ruatoria – Home of the native Ngati Porou tribe and Mt. Hikurangi. If you’re a hiker, this might be worth an overnight stay at the hut on the mountain to see the beautiful sunrise the next morning.
- Tolaga Bay – Here, you’ll find the largest wharf in New Zealand, the Tolaga Bay Wharf. It’s a great place to take a walk and explore the city that was once served by this retired wharf.
- Gisborne – This city is brimming with things to do. If you’re passing through Gisborne, the best place to start would be the Gisborne i-SITE Visitor Centre, where you can get information about the city, where to eat, and what’s available for entertainment.
Check out the rest of the Hicks Bay travel blog for more information about things to do along state highway 35.