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Gisborne
1.3 km
30 minutes
10 metres
Safety notice: Conditions change; check DOC/local council/weather before walking.
If you are looking for a quick escape from the daily grind without leaving the outskirts of town, the Sisterson Lagoon Loop Walk in Gisborne is an absolute treasure. It is one of those places that locals hold close to their hearts—a "hidden gem" that provides an immediate sense of calm the moment you step onto the trail. Measuring just 1.3 kilometres in length and taking roughly 30 minutes to complete, this easy stroll is perfect for a lunch break, a post-work decompress, or a gentle weekend outing with the kids.
The terrain is remarkably flat, with a negligible 10-metre elevation gain, making it accessible for almost everyone. The path is well-formed and winds its way through a lush, regenerating ecosystem nestled between McDonald Road and the historic Palmerston North–Gisborne Railway Line.
As you begin the loop, you’ll notice how quickly the sounds of the nearby industrial area fade away, replaced by the rhythmic rustle of flax leaves and the melodic calls of native birds. The walk feels like stepping into a pocket of the past. You aren't just walking around a pond; you are walking through a piece of history that has been painstakingly restored by the local community. The trail offers a wonderful sense of enclosure and intimacy, with the canopy overhead providing dappled light and a cool breeze even on a classic Gisborne "scorcher." Because it is a loop, the scenery is constantly changing, transitioning from dense native plantings to open views of the tranquil wetland waters.
The real star of the show at Sisterson Lagoon is the story of its rebirth. This area is a precious remnant of the much larger Awapuni Lagoon, which once dominated this coastal landscape. Seeing the success of the restoration efforts is a highlight in itself.
One feature you shouldn’t miss is the conveniently placed shelter located right beside the lagoon. It’s the perfect spot to sit for five minutes, put your phone away, and simply observe the water. On a still day, the reflections of the karaka and kōwhai trees in the lagoon are stunning—a dream for amateur photographers looking to capture the "serene side" of Tairāwhiti.
Another standout feature is the sheer variety of native flora. Keep an eye out for the magnificent mature karaka, karo, karamu, and kōwhai trees. These aren't just there for looks; they are the result of thousands of hours of volunteer labour. In the spring, the bright yellow blooms of the kōwhai are a sight to behold and act as a magnet for hungry tūī.
Parking is available on the grass road verge next to Ravensdown, accessed directly from McDonald Road.
Get DirectionsKeep an eye out for these native and local bird species along the trail
Rhipidura fuliginosa
Small insectivorous bird with distinctive fan-shaped tail. Friendly and curious, often following walkers through the bush.
Best time: Year-round
Hemiphaga novaeseelandiae
New Zealand wood pigeon, a large native bird with iridescent green and purple plumage. Important for seed dispersal of native trees.
Best time: Year-round
Refuel after your hike at these nearby spots
4.5km away
A popular, bright, and modern cafe-restaurant in central Gisborne, known for good food, coffee, and friendly service. Offers brunch and lunch.
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Loop
For those interested in the finer details of conservation, look for the predator traps along the track. While they might seem humble, they are the silent guardians of this sanctuary, ensuring that the local birdlife can nest and thrive without the threat of pests. It’s a great talking point if you’re walking with children, helping them understand how we protect our unique environment.
Finding the trailhead is straightforward, even if you’re a visitor to the region. Sisterson Lagoon is located on the southern edge of Gisborne.
To get there, head towards the industrial area near the coast. The primary access point is via McDonald Road. You won’t find a massive paved parking lot, but there is plenty of parking available on the grass road verge right next to the Ravensdown site.
Once you’ve parked up, you’ll see the signage indicating the start of the QEII National Trust area. The proximity to the railway line adds a bit of character to the start of the walk, reminding you of the area's industrial heritage before you dive into the greenery.
If you are a bird lover, you are in for a treat. Because of the intensive trapping program and the rich variety of fruiting and flowering native trees, Sisterson Lagoon has become a thriving "biodiversity hotspot."
Tip for Birdwatchers: Bring a small pair of binoculars and head to the shelter. Staying still for ten minutes will reveal far more than you’ll see while walking. The best time for spotting is typically early morning or late afternoon when the birds are most active.
The beauty of a lowland wetland like Sisterson Lagoon is that it is a year-round destination.
Sisterson Lagoon isn't just a park; it’s a victory for community conservation. Historically, the Awapuni Lagoon was a massive wetland system that was an essential food basket (mahinga kai) for local Māori. Over the decades, much of the lagoon was drained for agriculture and urban development.
In the early 2000s, this specific section was protected under a QEII National Trust Covenant. This was a turning point. The Sisterson Lagoon Restoration Trust was formed, and since then, a dedicated band of volunteers has transformed what was once a degraded patch of land into the lush sanctuary you see today.
Today, the lagoon serves as a "living classroom." Local schools use the site for hands-on learning, teaching the next generation about water quality, native ecology, and the importance of being kaitiaki (guardians) of the land. When you walk here, you are witnessing the resilience of nature when given a helping hand by a passionate community.
After your 30-minute meander, you’ll likely be ready for a coffee or a bite to eat. Luckily, some of Gisborne’s best spots are just a five-minute drive away.
Whether you're a local looking for a new "regular" spot or a visitor wanting to see the real Gisborne, Sisterson Lagoon offers a peaceful, enriching experience that showcases the very best of Tairāwhiti’s natural heritage.
Porphyrio melanotus
Purple swamphen with distinctive red bill and frontal shield. Common in wetlands and grasslands.
Best time: Year-round
Todiramphus sanctus
The Kōtare is a vibrant blue-green bird with a strong beak, a skilled hunter that dives from elevated perches to catch fish and invertebrates.
Best time: Spring-Summer
Zosterops lateralis
Small bird with distinctive white eye-ring. Commonly seen in flocks, feeding on insects, fruit, and nectar.
Best time: Year-round
Prosthemadera novaeseelandiae
Endemic New Zealand honeyeater with distinctive white throat tuft and iridescent plumage. Known for its complex and beautiful song.
Best time: Year-round
4.7km away
A stylish cafe and dining spot in Gisborne's CBD, offering quality coffee, brunch, and a relaxed atmosphere.
4.8km away
Gisborne's iconic bar and live music venue, known for its unique atmosphere, including a DC-3 plane in the garden bar, and a welcoming vibe for music lovers.
4.9km away
A casually elegant restaurant focusing on seasonal Gisborne produce and award-winning local wines, offering contemporary and traditional dishes.