Destination management and development

Our Tourism team works with local businesses, mana whenua and stakeholders to grow a sustainable visitor economy that reflects the aspirations of our people and the unique character of Tairāwhiti.

How we can help

Destination Management Plan

The Tairāwhiti Destination Management Plan (TDMP) charts a pathway to a thriving, sustainable visitor economy that reflects the aspirations of our people and place. Developed through extensive community engagement, the TDMP balances economic opportunity with cultural, social, and environmental wellbeing.

Guided by the Tairāwhiti Destination Advisory Group, this plan sets out collective actions to ensure tourism growth enhances rather than harms our region, preserving what makes Tairāwhiti unique for generations to come.

Read the Destination Management Plan
Cruise
tourism

Cruise ships play a significant role in introducing international visitors to Tairāwhiti. We coordinate and manage cruise activity to ensure smooth operations, positive visitor experiences, and meaningful engagement with our local community. This includes working with port services, tour operators, and volunteers to welcome passengers, while supporting opportunities for local businesses.

By carefully managing cruise activity, we maximise economic benefits for the region and ensure that tourism growth remains respectful, balanced, and sustainable.

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Cruise tourism
Tourism experience development

We support the creation and growth of unique, authentic tourism experiences that connect visitors with the stories and spirit of Tairāwhiti. This includes working with local operators, creatives, and communities to design products that reflect who we are and what makes our region distinctive.

From adventure and culture to food and festivals, we aim to help build experiences that leave lasting impressions while supporting local businesses.

Contact us

Contact
Tūranganui-a-Kiwa Gisborne isite

The Tūranganui-a-Kiwa Gisborne isite is the region’s official visitor information centre. Our friendly team provides trusted advice, travel bookings, and local insights to help visitors make the most of their stay. Whether it’s finding unique experiences, connecting with guided tours, or recommending places to eat, stay, and explore, the isite is a welcoming gateway to Tairāwhiti.

It also plays a key role in supporting local tourism businesses and promoting the authentic character of our region.

Visit the isite

https://www.google.com/search?client=safari&sca_esv=2fdb4996cfdf24b0&cs=0&output=search&kgmid=/g/1tdcgk9r&q=Gisborne+isite+Visitor+Information+Centre&shndl=30&shem=lcuae,lsptbl1,uaasie&source=sh/x/loc/uni/m1/1&kgs=7faa8b51cbfd3c8b&utm_source=lcuae,lsptbl1
Regional Event Fund

This Regional Events Fund is to help attract and support events that promote Tairāwhiti as a visitor destination.

These events should be supported by our communities and through visitor attraction, support economic growth. To receive this funding, the event must be held in Tairāwhiti, support local vendors and be able to demonstrate visitor attraction from outside of the region. The fund can not be used for activities such as wages, asset purchases or infrastructure costs.

Before applying, ensure you thoroughly read the fund guidelines.

Read application guidelines

Apply now

Our people

Holly Hatzilamprou

Regional Destination Manager
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Kim McVicker

Destination Marketing Manager
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Mel Ma’afu Sinoti

Destination Development Advisor
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Karaitiana Hull

Team Leader isite
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Destination marketing

Our vision is to be a destination where the communities, culture and environment is valued, leaving a profound impact on residents and visitors alike and a lasting legacy for future generations.
Destination insights dashboard

The Gisborne region tourism insights dashboard allows you to compare key tourism metrics and performance indicators. It provides comprehensive and dynamic data covering various factors, including…
Tourism resources

As the Regional Tourism Organisation (RTO) we are tasked with managing tourism and its opportunities and impacts for the benefit of Tairāwhiti communities.

Our Tourism team works with local businesses, mana whenua and stakeholders to grow a sustainable visitor economy that reflects the aspirations of our people and the unique character of Tairāwhiti.

How we can help

Destination Management Plan

Cruise tourism

Tourism experience development

Tūranganui-a-Kiwa Gisborne isite

Regional Event Fund

Our people

Holly Hatzilamprou

Kim McVicker

Mel Ma’afu Sinoti

Karaitiana Hull

Find out more

Destination marketing

Destination insights dashboard

Tourism resources

Cruise
tourism