My Top 10 Family Photography Spots in Gisborne

Maria Wilkens
Jun 11
4 min read

Updated: Aug 5

Nestled on the stunning East Coast of New Zealand, Gisborne offers a breathtaking variety of backdrops for every kind of session - whether you’re planning family photos, maternity portraits, or a newborn shoot. From golden beaches to enchanted forests, this region is full of diverse, picturesque spots that help tell your family’s story with honesty and warmth.

Below, I’ve rounded up some of my favourite family photography locations in Gisborne, sharing what makes each one unique and how it can elevate your photo experience.

Midway Beach

Midway Beach, or as locals call it, the Mad Mile Beach, is a golden-hour dream! The sun sets unobstructed, giving us that warm glow we all love in family portraits. It’s flat and open, with dry grass and pine trees adding a nice touch to the scenery.

Getting here is super easy, so it’s great for families of all ages. It’s one of our city beaches, so you might see a few people around - but hey, it’s Gisborne, so it’s never packed. There’s no public toilet, though, so just keep that in mind.

It’s perfect for capturing those glowing, sun-drenched moments that make every photo feel like a summer day.

Waikanae Beach

Waikanae Beach has been my trusty go-to for extended family sessions for years, and it’s easy to see why! It’s fun, super accessible, and offers that gorgeous golden sunset glow that makes photos magical. It’s ideal for bigger groups and has public toilets nearby. Plus, there’s usually some greenery and wildflowers hanging around, no matter the season.

Being a central Gisborne beach, it does tend to get busier during summer, so I usually steer clear during the peak season. Otherwise, it’s a beautiful spot for creating those unforgettable family memories.

Wainui Beach

Heading further up the coast, we have Wainui Beach - a little gem that's all about variety! While the beach itself is on the smaller side and works best at low tide, it offers a mix of stunning backdrops: sandy shores, lush greenery, and rolling hills.

Great for families who want a little adventure - there’s some hill climbing and a few stairs involved. But if you’re someone who loves options and wants a bit of everything in your photos, Wainui is the spot for you!

Okitu Beach

If wide, open spaces and dreamy white sand are your vibe, Okitu Beach is calling your name. This beach is super flat and expansive, making it a favourite for those relaxed, breezy family and maternity shoots in Gisborne. While there’s some greenery, it’s more about the open feel here.

Depending on the season, you might also be treated to beautiful wildflowers and charming bunny tails, adding a touch of magic to your photos. With the sun dipping behind the hills, Okitu offers soft, romantic pink sunsets instead of the classic golden glow - perfect for a dreamy vibe!

Okitu Whales Beach

If dramatic rocks and quiet corners are your thing, Okitu Whales Beach might be just what you're after. A short walk from the parking area, this beach gives you both striking backdrops and peaceful, open sand for those natural, unposed moments.

It’s one of my go-to spots for maternity and family sessions. With the sun setting just right, we often catch soft golden tones or gentle pink skies - perfect for capturing something honest and beautiful. Public toilets are nearby too, making it an easy and relaxed location for everyone.

Makorori Beach

Makorori Beach is where moody vibes meet natural beauty. It’s a super wide, flat beach with loads of greenery, giving you a mix of textures and tones for your photos. While we’ll need to walk moderate distances to get the best spots, it’s all part of the adventure!

With the sun hiding behind the hills, this beach leans into softer, more dramatic lighting, with rather pink than golden sunsets, perfect for creating an atmosphere that’s both calm and captivating. If you’re into a slightly moodier look with lots of variety, Makorori is a winner.

Makorori Northern Beach

Northern Makorori offers a stunning, flat, and wide beach with super easy access - perfect for those who want gorgeous backdrops without too much walking.

With high hills in the background and plenty of sunlight, it’s ideal for capturing those dreamy golden sunsets. If you’re after a mix of ease and beauty, this spot is a fantastic choice!

Grey's Bush

If you're a fan of morning or early afternoon sessions, Grey's Bush is a must-consider location. With its magical light filtering through lush greenery, it offers a tropical, almost mysterious vibe.

It’s a quiet spot, making it ideal for solo portraits, breastfeeding sessions, or newborn photography in Gisborne where peace is key.

Waihirere Domain

Another fantastic forest location is Waihirere Domain, just a short drive outside the city. With plenty of space for kids to run around, beautiful streams winding through the forest, and a mix of flowers and lush bush, it’s a dream spot for family photos. This location is super family-friendly and works wonderfully for extended family sessions too. It’s especially perfect for afternoon sessions, with soft light adding a touch of magic to your photos.

My Gisborne Photography Studio

Last but not least, there’s always the option of choosing the Studio! Located centrally at 45 Awapuni Road, my private studio offers a calm, temperature-controlled space perfect for newborn photography, milestone sessions, or when the weather has other plans. With curated backdrops and cozy styling, it’s ideal for those who prefer a stress-free, private environment.

Whether it’s baby snuggles, maternity portraits, or simply your little ones being themselves - the studio has everything needed to capture those fleeting moments.