Gisborne District Council is the local body government for TarÄ?whiti New Zealand. We are a district council with the responsibilities of a regional council. We are the largest district council in the North Island, our district covers 8355 square kilometres of land with 1889km of roads. The population of the Gisborne region is about 43,653 (2013 census). Gisborne is a vibrant and progressive community. We are one of the sunniest places in New Zealand with warm summers and mild winters. Our natural attractions are our extensive coastline of sandy beaches with famous surf breaks, to natural bush and farm land. TairÄ?whiti is the first place in the world to see the rising sun. TairÄ?whiti First! First to see the light; First Choice for people and lifestyle; First choice for enterprise and innovation; First place for the environment, culture and heritage. As the site of the first meeting between MÄ?ori and European, our district is rich in history. Almost 50% of our population is MÄ?ori. We value our communities, our social networks and our natural environment. We have the ability and creativity to succeed locally and on the global stage.