About Tahu
Tahu is a modern beachside restaurant and events venue in Gisborne, perched on Midway Beach with sweeping eastward ocean views (neatplaces.co.nz ) (tairawhitigisborne.co.nz ). It opened in December 2023 and was created by local restaurateur Jared Johnstone (neatplaces.co.nz ) (tairawhitigisborne.co.nz ). The word “Tahu” evokes the traditional Māori concept of a communal dining house, embodying food and feasting as a link between people and nature (neatplaces.co.nz ). The designers intentionally incorporated local cultural motifs – sandy-textured walls, ocean-green tiles and a carved kumara motif on the bar – to create a coastal aesthetic that is elegant, inviting and rich with regional character (neatplaces.co.nz ). As a restaurant focused on shared meals, Tahu’s menu is “sophisticated but hearty, with a focus on provenance and locally-sourced ingredients” (tairawhitigisborne.co.nz ). Guests can enjoy brunch, lunch, dinner and cocktails in a relaxed yet refined ambience. The name and branding reflect the venue’s mission: to celebrate Tairāwhiti’s bounty and honor Māori heritage by serving native ingredients like kawakawa and horopito alongside seasonal Pacific cuisine (neatplaces.co.nz ) (tairawhitigisborne.co.nz ).
Events and Programming
Beyond its dining service, Tahu regularly hosts music and nightlife events. One signature series is **“Tahu After Dark,”** a weekly Saturday night party (from 8pm) that turns the restaurant into a DJ lounge. Local DJs spin chilled-to-upbeat sets while diners become dancers under neon lights (www.gizzylocal.com ). These Friday/Saturday dance nights remain free entry and feature full sound and lighting rigs – for example, one event promised a “full light show lighting up the beachside dancefloor” for jumping and grooving (www.gizzylocal.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Special themed parties are also programmed on occasion. In late 2025, Tahu hosted a retro **“Back to the 80s”** dance party that was billed as “Gizzy’s ultimate throwback party,” complete with costume competitions and nonstop 80s hits on stage (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). While live concerts by touring bands are rare at Tahu, the space can be flexibly used for private functions, wine dinners, corporate gatherings or community events. The venue’s bar and lounge areas also host casual gatherings – even simple after-work drinks or meetups – taking advantage of the ocean view. In short, Tahu’s calendar mixes its world-class local cuisine with a salsa of nightlife programming, from laid-back beachfront DJ nights to occasional large parties and event rentals.
Tickets and Booking
As a restaurant, Tahu welcomes both walk-in diners and regular reservations. For dinner or weekend lunch, booking a table in advance via phone or the official website is recommended, especially on summer evenings and busy holidays. The website explicitly notes that *“bookings and walk-ins are] welcome,”* reflecting a flexible policy ([tahu.co.nz ). Evenings often get busy, so ring ahead or book online if possible to secure a window or ocean-view table. For ticketed events (like themed dance parties or festivals), guests should purchase tickets as soon as they are announced. Large events at Tahu quickly sell out – the “Back to the 80s” show was age 18+ and sold advance tickets fast (www.ticketfairy.com ). Tickets for these special events are usually sold through the venue’s official channels or local outlets, and door sales are limited once an event reaches capacity. Pricing varies by event – for example, themed nightlife parties might have a flat admission fee, often comparable to club or concert prices (NZ$20–40 on average in Gisborne). Check Tahu social media or local event listings for ticket release dates and price tiers. Note that children under 18 are not permitted at late-night music events (Tahu enforces an R18 policy on those nights (www.ticketfairy.com )), although younger diners are welcome during regular dining hours (kids’ bento meals are even offered on the menu (tairawhitigisborne.co.nz )).
Seating and Layout
The interior of Tahu is open-plan and contemporary, designed to make the most of the coastal setting. Floor-to-ceiling glass and a wide wraparound balcony ensure almost every table has a partial sea view. During daylight, sunlight floods the dining room; at night, adjustable lighting creates a warm glow. For daytime meals, the most sought-after seats are at windows or on the ocean-facing deck – these offer the best vantage for sunrises and sunsets over Midway Beach (tairawhitigisborne.co.nz ). (Several reviews note that the deck views at sunset are a major draw (www.tripadvisor.co.za ).) Inside, casual lounge chairs and table groupings invite conversation. For large parties or weddings, groups can often be arranged around central tables; the space is popular “for large groups” as listed by guides, since it can be configured with long banquet tables or multiple rounds. There is no formal “VIP section,” but private function areas can sometimes be roped off for events.
When Tahu operates as a music venue, a dancefloor area is set up on the beachside side of the building, utilizing the outdoor terrace as the main stage/dance zone. The venue is not tiered or stadium-style – the floor is flat – so sightlines are generally good (you can see the stage or DJ booth from most spots). Acoustic performance is warm and lively thanks to a high ceiling and some sound-absorbing interior finishes, but at full volume events the open patio balances the acoustics. Sound and lighting equipment can be brought in as needed (for instance, one event advertised a professional light show on the patio (www.ticketfairy.com )). During quiet dining hours, the crowd’s chatter is easily heard throughout the space. In summary, choose a table by the window or on the balcony for the best views; if dancing or watching a DJ, the outdoor deck nearest the water is the focal point.
Getting There and Parking
Tahu’s exact address is **40 Centennial Marine Drive, Awapuni, Gisborne** (tahu.co.nz ) (tairawhitigisborne.co.nz ). It sits on a village street one block off the water, just west of the intersection with Awapuni Road. If you are driving, there is ample free street parking directly outside and along neighboring streets – Centennial Marine Drive and Beachlands Drive have plenty of marked parking spots. This area is mostly residential and council parking, so overnight or event parking is generally free but can fill up on busy nights; early arrivals can secure closer spots. There is no designated off-street lot for Tahu, but short-term drop-off is easy right out front. Ride-share services like Uber are not widely available in Gisborne, so private car or taxi are the most reliable options for visitors.
Public transit is available on weekdays. Gisborne’s GizzyBus service Route 03 runs a loop through Awapuni. You can catch Route 03 from the Bright Street terminus downtown, and it will stop near **Kiwa Pools on Centennial Marine Drive**, a few blocks from Tahu (www.gdc.govt.nz ). From the Kiwa Pools stop, it’s a gentle 5–10 minute walk through a quiet neighborhood to the restaurant. Note that GizzyBus does not run on weekends or late at night; buses cap off around 6pm on weekdays (www.gdc.govt.nz ). For late-night events when the bus isn’t running, booking a local taxi is advisable (Gisborne Taxis offers 24/7 service). If you arrive from out of town, Gisborne Airport is only a few kilometers east (past the city), but there’s no direct shuttle; renting a car or taking a taxi from the airport are the typical ways. Overall, most visitors get to Tahu by car or taxi – just drive west from the city center on Marine Drive and you’ll find it on the north side before the end of the road.
Inside the Venue
**Layout and atmosphere:** Tahu’s interior blends casual beach vibes with refined design. On entry, you’ll see the open kitchen and bar; the bar is wrapped in teal tile and wood accents, often stocked with local wines and craft beers. To one side are dining tables and booths, and to the other is the lounge/dance area that opens out the patio doors. The coastal-inspired decor (pale sandstone wall textures, woven light fixtures, and Māori-inspired art) is meant to be calming and welcoming. The staff maintain a friendly, attentive service style – for example, reviewers praise “efficient and friendly service” alongside the beautiful view (www.tripadvisor.co.za ). With sunlight by day and soft lantern light by night, the mood transitions from bright and relaxed (brunch and lunch hours) to intimate and lively (dinner and evening events).
**Entry & security:** For regular dining, anyone can walk in or come to their reserved table; security checks are minimal. For evening and ticketed events, an ID check is enforced at the door (you must be 18+ at late-night DJ parties (www.ticketfairy.com )). Large bags or professional cameras might be subject to a quick inspection, but photography for personal use is generally allowed (plenty of guests take sunset photos). There is no formal coat check – most people just hang jackets on their chairs. Tahu’s policy prohibits outside food or alcohol – all food and drink must be purchased on site, including on event nights.
**Food and drink:** The heart of Tahu is its restaurant and bar. The full kitchen menu (often described as showcasing “seasonal, locally sourced kai” (tairawhitigisborne.co.nz )) runs during dining hours and often into the early evening. Expect premium appetizers, shared plates (seafood, meats and veg), hearty mains and beautiful desserts, all using Gisborne’s fresh produce and seafood. A highlight is that the produce you see on the table often comes from literally the hills or ocean ont he horizon. There is a full wine list focusing on East Coast wines and a cocktail list noted for being creative (“cocktails were dangerously delicious” wrote a reviewer (www.tripadvisor.co.za )). During DJ nights the kitchen usually still serves snacks and meals (though verify last orders if staying late). High chairs or kids’ bento box meals are available for families dining early (the menu even mentions happy “small foodies” dining (tairawhitigisborne.co.nz )). An on-site wine display offers bottles to go. In short, you can enjoy anything from coffee and brunch in the morning (on weekends) to a full three-course dinner, or just sip cocktails and small plates as a party starts later in the night.
**Amenities:** The venue is fully wheelchair accessible – there are no stairs at the entrance and restrooms are on the main level with wide doors. (Gisborne buses are also mobility-friendly, which helps riders with prams or wheelchairs reach the door (www.gdc.govt.nz ).) Free Wi-Fi is typically available for guests. Restrooms are clean and modern; they are located just off the main dining room. There is no merchandise shop, but Tahu occasionally sells branded wine or gift vouchers. For parents, there is some space to stow strollers by the entrance. Peers and locals often linger around the bar area to chat; there is a small section of lounge sofa seating if you just want a drink. Overall, expect a friendly, informal vibe inside – the focus is on enjoying the sea views and good company.
Nearby Amenities
Tahu sits just outside central Gisborne but within easy reach of the city’s sights and services. For pre-dinner or post-dinner drinks and meals, several notable venues are not far away. The **Crawford Road Kitchen** lies a short drive east along the waterfront – it’s a standing Gisborne favorite for Sunday lunches and fine steaks with harbour views (tairawhitigisborne.co.nz ). Closer to town, the **Neighbourhood Pizzeria** offers a fun, casual atmosphere with wood-fired pizzas and craft beers (good for families or groups after a day strolling town) (www.tairawhitigisborne.co.nz ). Downtown Gisborne (about 5–10 mins’ drive) has a cluster of bars and restaurants – for example, cocktail bar **The Golden Age** and the Irish-style **The Rivers** pub. The scenic old town wharf area (also 5-10 mins drive) has several outdoor cafés and the popular **Wharf Bar & Grill** overlooking the harbor. If coming straight from your hotel, a few lodging options are nearby: mid-range motels and B&Bs cluster around the city center and beachfront. Pacific Harbour Motor Lodge or city-central in historic buildings are convenient for tourists. In any case, visitors often arrive in mid-afternoon and make an evening of it. The local “Gizzy” vibe encourages pre-show beers at any of these nearby spots, then strolling to catch sunset at Tahu on the way in.
What Makes This Venue Special
Several factors set Tahu apart in Gisborne’s scene. Firstly, its **location and views** are remarkable: as a beachside watchtower to the Pacific, it offers one of the best ocean vistas in town, especially at sunrise and sunset (tairawhitigisborne.co.nz ) (www.tripadvisor.co.za ). Reviewers consistently rave about the atmosphere – one family described an “absolutely beautiful” sunset view paired with “top-notch” food (www.tripadvisor.co.za ). Secondly, the **cultural concept** is unique. Owner Jared Johnstone built Tahu around connecting to iwi (local Māori) traditions and the land. This ethos shows in everything from the menu (which literally names Māori flavours) to the very name Tahu (the embodied dining house) (neatplaces.co.nz ) (tairawhitigisborne.co.nz ). In a region where Māori heritage is strong, Tahu feels like a tribute to local identity – more than just another café, it’s an experience of Tairāwhiti hospitality. Thirdly, the **design** and ambience are thoughtfully done. Architecture and interior design blend modern lines with natural materials; even the lighting and art carry ocean themes. It doesn’t feel like a generic chain restaurant but a bespoke space. Finally, the **social impact** is growing: Tahu has quickly become a gathering spot for celebrations, from birthday dinners to huge whānau gatherings. Jared Johnstone is a well-known figure who has won hospitality awards, so his presence and networking help bring attention and innovation to Gisborne’s dining scene (www.restaurantnz.co.nz ). In short, people love Tahu because it delivers high-end food and service while keeping a warm, community-oriented vibe. Both locals and travelers say it “stands out” in Gisborne for combining world-class coastal cuisine with genuine local soul (tairawhitigisborne.co.nz ) (www.tairawhitigisborne.co.nz ).
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The venue is fully accessible – no steps block the entrance and the main dining area and patio are wheelchair-friendly. Accessible toilets are provided. Service animals are allowed. During events, a reduced number of seats may be reserved, so inform staff in advance if you need accessible seating during a show. What to Bring/Expect: It can get cool by the water after dark, so a light jacket is wise even in summer. Since the side patio is open, bring a sweater or scarf. If you want sunset photos, arrive at least 15–20 minutes before sunset (roughly one hour before an event’s listed start) to get the best natural light. For beach parties, sunglasses and reef shoes are overkill – it’s a smooth patio – but a phone/camera is a must. Standard club items (ID for R18 events, valid credit card for drink tabs) apply. Dressing: Dress is generally smart-casual. Beachwear or tourista attire is fine for lunch, but on event nights many people will dress up a bit or wear themed outfits (like neon for 80s night). Heels are okay indoors, but remember the patio can be uneven. Closed-toe shoes are a safer choice if dancing after dark. Age Restrictions: For regular dining hours, Tahu is family-friendly; children eat free with kids menu options (bento boxes, small plates). However, on advertised nightlife events the venue enforces 18+ entry and may check IDs (www.ticketfairy.com ), as noted on tickets. Common Mistakes: The biggest mistake is arriving too late. Parking can fill up on Friday/Saturday evenings and lines form to enter. Arrive early for a weekend show. Also, don’t assume there’s space – always book dinner in advance if visiting with a group. Lastly, since Gisborne is off the beaten path, double-check your route: the restaurant is a bit outside the main town centre, so use a GPS for Centennial Marine Drive. Menu Notes: The cuisine is predominantly local New Zealand with a Pacific coastal twist – lots of seafood, lamb, kūmara, native herbs. Vegetarian and gluten-free choices are available on request. If you have dietary needs, let the staff know when booking. On the bar side, there’s a “wine shop” display featuring local wines for sale to take home – worth browsing after your meal. Weather Policies: Since part of the venue is exposed, heavy rain or high winds may lead to shortening outdoor events. In such cases, check Tahu’s social media for any notices, or call ahead. But mild rain just adds to the mood with all doors open. Insider tip: During weekends, locals often make an afternoon of it: have pre-dinner drinks at Tahu’s bar (the lounge seating overlooks the water) and then stay for dinner, rather than leaving the venue between courses. Also, Tahu is famous for sunsets – plan your timing so you can enjoy a glass of local wine as the sun goes down over the Pacific. One final note: tips in New Zealand are appreciated but not mandatory; service charge is not added to the bill, so rounding up is up to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of events are held at Tahu?
Besides regular dining service, Tahu hosts nightlife events like DJ parties and themed dance nights. A weekly “After Dark” DJ night runs on Saturdays from 8pm, with guest DJs and a light show (www.gizzylocal.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). They also put on occasional special events (for example, a throwback “Back to the 80s” party in 2025) complete with music, dancing and contests (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). The space can also be booked for private functions, wine dinners, or community gatherings.
How do I make a reservation or buy tickets?
For dining, you can reserve a table by contacting Tahu directly (phone or website) or just walk in; bookings are encouraged at peak times. For special ticketed events, you should purchase tickets in advance through the official channels Tahu advertises (generally limited to online or approved outlets). Event tickets often sell out, so it’s best to book early. There is no physical box office at the restaurant – ticket vendors or the venue’s event page handle sales, and door sales may not be available once an event is closed out.
What is the seating layout and capacity at Tahu?
Tahu has an open-plan dining room with tables and a bar area, plus a wraparound deck with outdoor seating. The venue can accommodate roughly dozens to around a hundred guests total (indoor plus outdoor) when fully utilized for events. There are no fixed numbered seats – seating is mostly tables set by reservation, with space cleared for dancing during parties. Always book early for large groups or popular events to get the best table. The ground floor layout means it can host medium-size events but it isn’t built like a stadium or theatre.
Where do I park near Tahu?
Most parking is free street parking on Centennial Marine Drive and nearby streets. There is no private lot, but you’ll usually find available spots along the village road. Arrive early on busy nights since spaces can fill up quickly. There’s also room to drop people off right in front of the venue. If street parking is scarce, you might find alternatives a few blocks away near neighboring residential lanes. Evening events typically do not charge for on-street parking.
Is there public transportation to Tahu?
Yes. On weekdays, Gisborne’s city bus (GizzyBus) route 03 circulates through the Awapuni area. It stops near Kiwa Pools on Centennial Marine Drive, which is about a 5-minute walk to Tahu (www.gdc.govt.nz ). Note that buses do not run on weekends or after early evening, so on Friday/Saturday nights public transit is not available. For weekend or late-night outings, arrange a taxi or drive yourself.
What are the best seats for dining or viewing performances?
For dining, tables by the big windows or on the wraparound balcony offer the finest ocean views and are ideal for watching sunset (tairawhitigisborne.co.nz ). For a performance or DJ set, being on the outdoor patio closer to the stage area (or near the bar if it’s a club night) gives you the best experience. Inside, seats near the bar/lounge area are good for atmosphere but don’t have direct views. Essentially, request an ocean-side table for a scenic meal, or get on the open deck for a dance event.
What is the dress code?
Tahu’s atmosphere is casually upscale. During the day and for dinner, smart-casual attire is appropriate – think nice jeans or slacks, a collared shirt or blouse. Beachwear or athletic clothing is generally too informal for dinner service. For evening parties, people often dress up more or even in theme (for example, neon for an 80s party). The wood-deck patio can get chilly after sunset, so it’s wise to bring a light jacket or sweater for drinks outside. Closed-toe shoes are recommended on the wooden deck, especially if you’ll dance.
Are children and families welcome?
Yes – for normal restaurant hours, Tahu is family-friendly and even has kids’ bento box meals. The relaxed dining environment and breezy design make it a pleasant spot for families. (That said, space is somewhat limited, so it’s best to reserve in advance if bringing a group with children.) However, for late-night events or DJ parties, the venue restricts entry to age 18 and over, and children are not allowed at those ticketed events (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Can I bring my own food or alcohol?
No. Tahu operates as a full-service restaurant/bar, so outside food and beverages are not permitted. All food orders must come from the kitchen, and all drinks from the bar. This applies to both dining and event nights. The venue does offer a wide range of items onsite, including local wine, cocktails, and share plates. If you have guests who want something not on the menu, contact the venue in advance – in rare cases they do allow special arrangements for large functions, but normally everything must be purchased there.
What amenities are available for guests?
Tahu offers a full-service bar with cocktails, local beers and wines. Restrooms are located on the main floor and are wheelchair-accessible. There’s no coat check, but space is usually available to hang jackets on chairs. The venue has free Wi-Fi for customers. They also feature an onsite display of local wines and may sell bottles to go. Checked baggage or hat storage is not specifically provided, but staff will accommodate reasonable requests (for example, safely storing a small bag or stroller near the entrance). Charging stations for phones are not provided, so plan accordingly.
Does Tahu have any historical or cultural significance?
As a new establishment (opened late 2023), Tahu does not yet have a long history, but it was purpose-built to celebrate local culture. Its name and mission emphasize Māori traditions (for example, meaning of the dining hall and incorporation of native ingredients) (neatplaces.co.nz ). The building itself was constructed with intentional design elements reflecting Gisborne’s coast and heritage. The owner, Jared Johnstone, is affiliated with the Ngāti Porou iwi, and the venue is seen as a modern interpretation of a wharekai (communal dining house) in the coastal region. In this sense, Tahu has quickly become a place of cultural pride – a special gathering point for Tairāwhiti’s communities, symbolizing the region’s identity through its food and setting.
