Sacred mountaintops: Mount Hikurangi. Photo / TNZ, Supplied
Last night the Travel Guides were treated to an insiders' tour of the East Cape.
Giving a Kiwi twist to the TV show's normal formula, this season's hosts are all ordinary New Zealanders who've been given a chance to see some extraordinary parts of their country.
From the slopes of sacred Maunga Hikurangi to the unbeatable Pacific beaches, the Travel Guides fitted a lot into their time in Tairāwhiti Gisborne. Here's what they got up to on their backyard Tiki Tour in the unique cornet of Aotearoa.
Waikanae Beach TOP 10 Holiday Park
With a name like TOP 10, you know Waikanae beach is not your average holiday park. With both beach access and a heated pool, motor-camp is a great shout for surfers or a family break - just on the edge of town.
Tirohanga Beach Motor Camp
At the other side of the cape, Tirohanga beach in the bay of Plenty is your classic kiwi campsite.
Maui Motorhomes
Camper rental company Maui is your one stop shop for hiring a home on the road. Check out their shoulder season deals for up to 15 per-cent off motor-home hire.
Dive Tatapouri
In the shallows of Tatapouri beach, the stingray are regular guests. You can see them from the shore, or don a pair of waders to meet them in person. Dive Tatapouri run Reef Ecology Tours to visit the Whai Repo, who aren't shy.
Salt Shack Surf School
Gisborne's beaches are a favourite place for surfies to hang on the East Coast. However if you're building up to the big waves, or just looking for a spot to try out – you could do well to check in with Salt Shack. Run by siblings Holly and Jay Quinn, they have recently launched a Ladies surf camp for longer getaways.
East Coast Horse Treks
A family owned business with a passion for horses, running tours around a coastal paradise.
Horse Treks from 1 hour wanders to overnight camps up the Kereu River.
facebook.com/eastcoasthorsetreks
Rere Rockslide & Falls
A natural wonder, well worth the 50 minute roady out of town. A spectacular waterfall smoothed into a natural slide, many visitors jump on a boogie board or just their backsides to slide down the pools below. Take care on the rocks and have fun!
When there's nothing as far as the eye can see, you may appreciate the company.