Excursion Historic boat cruise in gisborne harbour tour at Gisborne

Summer’s calm reveals the classic beauty of Gisborne’s Poverty Bay Harbour. So will this 1.25-hour cruise aboard the MV Takitimu. A heritage vessel built in the early 1920s, the Takitimu is believed to be the oldest pilot vessel in New Zealand still in active operation.

A stout yet graceful pilot/tug working boat, her crisp white planking, teak brightwork, and original fixtures and fittings have been painstakingly restored to proper shipshape by a group of volunteers who adopted the restoration as a passion project in 2001 – some serving as her skipper, as well. At 45 feet in length, 11 feet of beam, and 19 tons displacement, the Takitimu readily accommodates the 20-odd passengers who sign on for one of her spins around stunning Poverty Bay. In fact, she typically brings a huge smile to their faces.

Captain James Cook is credited with devising the Poverty Bay’s name when he arrived in the 1700s, apparently because 'it afforded us no one thing we wanted'. While the moniker soon appeared on maps and charts of the day, once Europeans settled in the area, they hoped to change it to something that might serve as a better advertisement for this fertile corner of the North Island. Alas, history and habits are stubborn, and the name Poverty Bay prevailed.

Once your classic-style circuit around the bay is complete, your modern ship is just a short walk away along the Wharf.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen include: MV Takitimu, Poverty Bay Harbour

Note

Please note: This easy excursion involves only a short distance of round-trip walking along the Wharf, with a step or two to board the boat. The tour is not suitable for guests who utilise a wheelchair or have limited mobility. Wear casual, weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable footwear. Soft drinks, water, and snacks are provided while onboard. Toilets onboard only accessible by ladder.