When it comes to the perfect place to live that offers a balance of work and play, it's hard to look past Gisborne.

The Move to Paradise culture is growing and for a good reason.

The East Coast has long been renowned for its welcoming and laid back lifestyle that basks in a near perfect climate. Golden sand beaches stretch for miles, offering surf breaks for all abilities, safe swimming spots and ideal family hang-out areas.

There are golf courses scattered throughout the region, and cover all sorts of abilities playing on some of the best and most spectacular courses in New Zealand.

If tramping is your game then get ready to be spoiled for choice with Lake Waikaremoana just on the doorstep and plenty of historically-charged short walks even closer.

Deep sea game fishing, surf casting and trout fishing are all there for the taking, while the Te Tapuwai o Rongokako Marine Reserve just minutes from town is a treasure to behold.

Beginning to see why moving to paradise is such a good idea?

While there is plenty to enjoy in out-of-work hours, there is also an array of top-flight international businesses through to entrepreneurs and boutique operations, with something there for everyone.

The region is lucky with its schooling, with alternate options through to innovative main stream across the ages. There are small country schools for those seeking a rural experience, with plenty of larger options in and around the city. Tertiary education is also well covered with a local polytechnic and other institutions well established.

The region is abundant in Maori culture, with a rich tapestry drawn on throughout the community.

So take time to see what the best kept secret in the nation has to offer.