East Cape, New Zealand offers 1 beach perfect for sunbathing, surfing, swimming, and more. Gisborne is known for being the first city in the world to see the sunrise each day. The best time to travel to East Cape, New Zealand, is during the summer months of December to February, when the average air temperature is around 20-25°C (68-77°F) and the water temperature is approximately 20°C (68°F). Sandee provides detailed maps, photos, and reviews from fellow beachgoers to help you Choose Your Beach™ and plan your perfect beach vacation!