Activities & Attractions
Hawkes Bay Wine Country is characterised by diverse landscapes, bountiful produce, award-winning wines, stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage.
The curve of the Hawkes Bay coastline streches from Cape Kidnappers to Mahia Peninsula on the east coast of the New Zealand's North Island. The ranges to the west give way to rolling hills and fertile alluvial plains with their network of rivers.
Te Mata Peak is an important landmark, rising to 399 metres above sea level. It is one of the first places in New Zealand to see the sun. From the summit there is a panoramic view of the province - all the way to Mt Ruapehu on a clear day.
The cities of Napier and Hastings and charming village of Havelock North all have a lively mix of café culture, great shopping, galleries, museums and more. Both cities are architecturally influenced by Spanish Mission and Art Deco styles, however Napier has a particular concentration due to its reconstruction following the devastating 1931 earthquake. Visitors are drawn from the world over enjoy the Art Deco atmosphere.
Bursting with taste sensations, Hawkes Bay is New Zealand's leading food and wine destination and home to award-winning wines at over 70 wineries. Fresh produce, epicurean delights and gourmet experiences can be found at the Farmers’ Markets or on the Food and Wine Trails, as well as at a great variety of restaurants, cafes and bars to suit all tastes.
Also within easy reach are art studios, multiple rounds of golf on internally ranked through to quaint country courses, sandy beaches and pristine native bush. There is a chice of many outdoor adventures such as trout fishing, bush walks, surfing, hot-air ballooning, mountain biking and the gannet colony at Cape Kidnappers to name a few.
The annual calendar of events includes the famous Mission Estate Winery Concert, Harvest Hawkes Bay, Art Deco festivals and the international Horse of the Year Show.