Lifestyle Travel

Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand

Lush, fertile soil, a temperate climate and the rugged wildness of New Zealand, Hawke’s Bay on the east coast of the North Island of NZ is an oasis of good food, award winning wine, art deco history and unspoilt scenery and beaches.

Considered New Zealand’s food and wine country, it is a must-visit on a trip to the North Island.

The region extends from the Mahia Peninsula to Cape Kidnappers and boasts some great cycling and walking tracks, good beaches and a pleasant climate making it an ideal long weekend destination.

Plan for a few days to really enjoy the region and experience all that the abundance of wineries have to offer.

Cape Kidnappers, Hawke’s Bay Image: Gary Lisbon/Tourism New Zealand

What to do in Hawke’s Bay

Wine Tour
Take a winery tour of the region and discover what all of the fuss is about, try Te Mata Estate, Black Barn Vineyards, Church Road Winery and The Mission Estate, which is NZ’s oldest winery.

Cycle
If you are feeling fit, Hawke’s Bay is part of the Classic New Zealand Wine Trail which takes riders to more that 100 cellar doors across four different New Zealand wine regions. The Hawke’s Bay area has over 200 kilometres of cycling trails to explore.

Hike up Te Mata Peak
Take a hike up to the Te Mata Peak which sits 400 metres above sea level, and be rewarded with panoramic views of the region. If wheels are more your style you can drive or cycle to the peak.

Enjoy the Coast
Stroll along the 3km coastline of Napier on Marine Parade and take in the fresh sea air and crashing waves. There are plenty of cafes and restaurants along the way to enjoy.

Cape Kidnappers, Hawke’s Bay Image: Gary Lisbon/Tourism New Zealand

Meet the Locals
The world’s largest gannet population calls Hawke’s Bay home. Over 20,000 of these beautiful birds nest, dance and swoop right in front or you.

Don’t Miss
Check out the famous art deco architecture in the region, including the Daily Telegraph Building and Municipal Building in Napier and the Hawke’s Bay Opera House in Hastings.

Crab Farm Winery is a great spot to enjoy delicious seafood, wine and open fires and live music or try the historic fishing village of Ahuriri for a picturesque spot for lunch.

Where to Stay
Get a restful night’s sleep at the Black Barn Retreats, The Manse, The Farm at Cape Kidnappers or Kiwiesque.

How to Get There
The best way to get to Hawke’s Bay is to drive. The region is about 3 hours from Wellington and just over 5 hours from Auckland – take your time, enjoy the scenery and make a day of it.

Want more? Click here to visit the village of Glenorchy on New Zealand’s South Island.

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