About Us
Welcome to Tatapouri Bay, your unique accommodation on the beautiful East Cape of Gisborne, New Zealand — where the world’s first sunrise meets the peaceful sounds of the Pacific Ocean.
We’re a locally owned and operated campground and accommodation business, just 15 minutes from Gisborne city centre, offering a range of stays including coastal cabins, glamping tents, pods, and powered campsites.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat near Gisborne, an unforgettable camping experience, or a family-friendly beachfront getaway, Tatapouri Bay offers something for everyone.
We’re proud to share this special part of Aotearoa with travellers, families, couples, and adventurers from all over. Wake up with the sunrise, walk along the coast, and experience the magic of Gisborne accommodation with a local touch.
We can’t wait to welcome you.
With gratitude,
The Tatapouri Team
A little history
This small patch of paradise is interestingly packed with rich history. From being the local watering hole to literally being covered in water there’s be no shortage of events . Way back before the campground was established this site was home to the infamous ‘Tatapouri Hotel’. Many hold fond memories of wild parties and social gatherings from their glory days, it was the place to be. Unfortunately, it wasn’t all fun and games as the Hotel suffered several tragedies. Starting with the original building burning down (pictured right) in 1962 which was later rebuilt. Twenty-one years later on the 27 March 1947, at 8.32am, an earthquake generated one of the largest tsunamis in New Zealand’s historical record which hit the coast of Tatapouri. A second fire destroyed the building in 1996 thus putting a final end to “The Tata” as it was known by locals.
Since then, it has been running as a campground but we’re determined to bring back the excitement and fun that “The Tata” so gloriously provided to so many people. Starting with our café named in its honour which has already received raving reviews. We’re paying homage to those that hold this place dear whilst re-imaging it to be a fresh new scene to gather and share in its beauty.
Sustainability
We recognize our responsibility to help protect the planet. We are committed to minimizing the impact our business has on the environment and supporting those who are working to improve global environmental sustainability.
- Encourage guests and staff to Reduce, Reuse, Repurpose, Recycle
- Living wage employer
- Paid day for staff to do volunteer work
- Community engagement through workshops and events
- Collaborate with other businesses committed to sustainability
- Safe tap spring water and water filters for campers use
- Promote the use of reusable cups
- Use of environmentally friendly products where possible
- Lighting in communal facilities on a daylight switch to conserve energy
- Native trees planting
- Support local and NZ suppliers
We love supporting local businesses where the product and practices are the right fit. We also choose environmentally responsible suppliers from further afield when they offer the best balance of sustainability, quality and value.
Our Environmental Journey
We have previously worked with local sustainability specialists My Imprint to better understand our environmental impact. While we are not currently participating in ongoing carbon measurement, the knowledge gained continues to guide our decisions and future planning.
Working with external stakeholders
We are committed to working with our suppliers, clients, and other stakeholders to reduce their environmental footprint.
- We engage with suppliers to improve the environmental impact of the products and services we purchase. These include eco store, far east coffee, native nursery and more.
Our Commitment to the Tiaki Promise
- Care for our place: minimise waste, recycle, conserve water and energy, and leave no trace.
- Travel and stay safely: respect our roads, coastline and changing weather conditions.
- Respect our culture and community: support local, travel with an open heart, and treat our people and places with care.
Work With Us
Our team thrives in an environment built on wellbeing, kindness, creative expression, and community. With loads of opportunity for growth and connection.
Our Vision: Come & Connect — with yourself, with others, and with the stunning East Cape surroundings.
What It’s Like to Work Here:
Structured Independence: Part-time team members are supported to become confident, independent, and know what needs to be done, helping the operation run smoothly.
Wellbeing & Enjoying Life: We want our staff to be happy and enjoy life. Whenever possible, we try to accommodate personal needs and schedules, while balancing the demands of a small, guest-focused team.
Teamwork & Community: While your happiness matters, we value social sense and teamwork — everyone’s contribution supports the group and the guests’ experience.
Creative Expression: Bring your ideas to life. From events to guest experiences, there’s space to innovate and make your mark.
Our Team: Passionate, happy, and empowered. We offer a supportive environment that fosters growth, responsibility, and a strong sense of community.
If you’re keen to help strengthen our core offerings, enhance branding and visuals, improve quality, and create memorable experiences for guests, please get in touch. Every contribution counts.
Join our team
