Last updated October 2026
Tamarau is a residential suburb southeast of Gisborne city centre on New Zealand’s North Island. It features a mix of coastal and inland landscapes with easy access to Poverty Bay beaches.
The area has a predominantly Māori community and ongoing social housing developments. Recent census data shows a youthful demographic profile. Tamarau offers residents proximity to both urban amenities and outdoor recreation opportunities.
Official Suburb Facts
- Population (2023 Census)
- About 1,010, up 3% since 2018
- Land area
- 0.49 km² (49 ha)
- Location
- 4.0 km south-east of central Gisborne
- Council
- Gisborne District Council
- Neighbouring suburbs
- Wainui, Kaiti, Outer Kaiti
- Ward or local board
- Tairāwhiti General Ward (Gisborne District Council)
- Nearby landmarks
- Waikanae Beach, Midway Beach
Who Lives in Tamarau
About 1,010 residents in 300 households. From the 2023 Census, with the New Zealand figure alongside for comparison.
Schools in Tamarau
There is no school inside the Tamarau boundary, but these schools have enrolment zones that cover some or all of it.
Zoned for Tamarau
Show all 5 zoned schools
Source: Ministry of Education school directory and enrolment zones (CC BY 4.0 and CC BY 3.0 NZ), October 2026. Zones change, so confirm with the school before relying on one.
Bin Day in Tamarau
by 7am on collection day
Source: Gisborne District Council collection areas. Streets near a suburb edge can differ, so check the council lookup if unsure.
Safety and Hazards
About the Gisborne average for the number of people who live here. Another 6 reports were at shops and businesses.
Sources: NZ Police victimisation data, CC BY 4.0, September 2025 to August 2026 (crimes inside homes are only published for burglary); Gisborne District Council tsunami evacuation zones and District Plan flood hazard overlays.
Handy Facilities
Source: Gisborne District Council public toilets; NZTA EVRoam charging sites.
Weather and Rent at a Glance
Sources: NIWA climate averages 1991-2020 (via Figure.NZ); Tenancy Services rental bond data (MBIE), CC BY 4.0, September 2025 to August 2026. City-wide figures.
About Tamarau
Tamarau lies southeast of Gisborne’s central business district and borders Poverty Bay.
Tamarau lies southeast of Gisborne’s central business district and borders Poverty Bay. The suburb combines flat coastal terrain with nearby hilly, forested inland areas. Rivers including the Waimata and Taruheru contribute to the local landscape.
The median age stands at 30.1 years, younger than the national median. The suburb maintains strong cultural ties with a significant Māori population.
Local geography supports a range of outdoor activities. Residents and visitors access swimming, surfing and beach recreation at nearby Waikanae and Midway beaches. Inland trails offer opportunities for walking and nature exploration.
Community life centres on cultural heritage and family-oriented living. Educational facilities in the area incorporate Māori values and bilingual learning approaches. Parks and open spaces provide venues for recreation and gatherings.
Housing and Development
Kāinga Ora completed a social housing project in Tamarau in 2024 that provides homes for 31 families.
Kāinga Ora completed a social housing project in Tamarau in 2024 that provides homes for 31 families. The development features accessible, universal design elements and addresses local housing needs. Gisborne District Council planning documents outline further strategies for urban intensification and sustainable growth while protecting surrounding agricultural land.
Recreation and Amenities
Tamarau residents enjoy proximity to Gisborne’s coastal recreation areas.
Tamarau residents enjoy proximity to Gisborne’s coastal recreation areas. Waikanae Beach and Midway Beach support swimming, surfing and family outings. Local parks offer spaces for sports, picnics and community events. The suburb connects to broader Gisborne facilities including educational and public services.
Near Tamarau
Just outside Tamarau, within 5 km of its centre, nearest first.
Places
Show 2 more places
Businesses
Where to Learn More
Wikipedia Tamarau page: Summary of population, geography and census data with references to Stats NZ.
Kāinga Ora: Information on recent social housing projects including the Tamarau development.
Gisborne District Council: Local planning, development strategies and community resources.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Tamarau located?
Tamarau is a suburb southeast of Gisborne city centre on the North Island’s East Coast.
Are there beaches near Tamarau?
Yes, Waikanae Beach and Midway Beach lie nearby and offer swimming, surfing and coastal recreation.
What housing developments are happening in Tamarau?
Kāinga Ora completed a social housing project providing homes for 31 families in 2024.
What is the median age in Tamarau?
The median age recorded in the 2023 Census is 30.1 years.
Are there parks or recreational facilities in Tamarau?
Local parks and open spaces support sports, picnics and community activities, with additional options in greater Gisborne.
Does Tamarau have a strong Māori community?
Yes, the suburb has a predominantly Māori population that shapes local culture and community life.
How do I find the latest census data for Tamarau?
Stats NZ and Wikipedia pages citing official census releases provide the most recent population and demographic figures.
Spotted something incorrect on this page? Let us know.
Explore Gisborne only lists suburbs officially recognised by Land Information New Zealand (LINZ), and Tamarau is one of them. Suburb boundary: LINZ, CC BY 4.0.