Two Gisborne men known for their love of the sea have rejected the outcome with disappointment and disbelief.
Surfing veteran, surf shop owner and Gisborne district councillor Larry Foster said it was disappointing no Gisborne beaches were mentioned in the New Zealand competition.
It was “absolutely absurd” that the Tairāwhiti coastline did not get a mention.
“We have five renowned surfing breaks locally which are protected under the New Zealand Coastal Policy Statement, more than any other region.
“There is no comparison to Wainui Beach and Ōhope.
“There is way better-quality surf and way more surfable days here.
“Our whole coastline has so many beautiful beaches and incredible surf breaks.”
Legendary Gisborne surfer John Gisby, who has won 40 New Zealand surfing titles and will have surfed in Gisborne 60 years this year, says Wainui is up with anywhere else in the country.
“It’s got to be one of the best break beaches in the country and there’s so many breaks along the beach like Cooper St, Stock Route, Schools, Pines, and Whales.
“Makorori would be a close second.”
Six of the 10 nominations for best city beach are in Auckland.
Foster said when Gisborne’s town beaches were woody debris-free “they should certainly rate highly, especially with Waikanae Beach Top Ten Holiday Park right where it is”.
Those responsible for the nominations had “obviously not spent any time here in Gisborne or Tairāwhiti”, he said.
Voting in the NZ Herald competition closes at 11.59pm on January 26.
The best beaches winners of 2025 will be announced on February 2.
