TOP 5 EXPERIENCES
Blessed with fertile soils and a warm, temperate climate, Hawke’s Bay is among New Zealand’s leading producers of wine; notably red wines – cabernet sauvignon, merlot and syrah – and stunning chardonnays. Hawke’s Bay is the first stop on the Classic New Zealand Wine Trail and is a popular place for bicycle wine tours with many of the region’s 30+ cellar doors, and numerous artisan producers, connected by 124 miles of flat, easy riding cycle trails.
Hawke’s Bay is New Zealand’s Art Deco capital, with the cities of Napier and Hastings rebuilt in the architectural styles of the time following the devastating 1931 earthquake. Year-round guided tours and vintage car rides are supercharged each February as tens of thousands flock to participate in the week-long Art Deco Festival.
Notable landmarks include Cape Kidnappers, home to the world’s largest mainland colony of gannets; Lake Waikaremoana, where the walking track is among New Zealand’s nine Great Walks; and Te Mata Peak, with its 360-degree views of Hawke’s Bay and spectacular walking tracks.
5. SIP AWARD-WINNING WINE
Often likened to Bordeaux in France, Hawke’s Bay is famed for its full-bodied red wines. Hire a bike and taste your way around some of the region’s 72 vineyards, including the award-winning Te Mata Estate Winery and Craggy Range. Stop for lunch at Church Road Winery or Mission Estate, New Zealand’s oldest winery.
4. TASTE ARTISAN FARE
Visit a local farmers’ market and stroll among the stalls of fresh fruit, vegetables, artisan bread, cheese and meats, before finding a shady spot to picnic. You’ll also find seasonal produce for sale by the roadside, often just with an honesty box for payment.
3. EXPLORE ART DECO ARCHITECTURE
When a devastating earthquake destroyed Napier in 1931, the city was rebuilt in the style of the times – Art Deco. Relive the opulent era of jazz, boaters and beads at the annual Art Deco Festival or take a guided tour of the spectacular architecture in a vintage car or by road train.
2. ATTEND THE FOOD AND WINE CLASSIC
Hawke’s Bay Food and Wine Class (F.A.W.C) is a highlight in the Hawke’s Bay calendar. Twice a year, restaurants, cafes and pop-up venues get in on the action, promising delicious food, award-winning wine and great entertainment.
1. EXPLORE THE CYCLE TRAILS
Hawke’s Bay Trails combine more than 120 miles of tracks that are helpfully split into themes (water, landscapes and wineries). Visit all of Hawke’s Bay’s attractions by bike – cycle by the seaside, venture to the vineyards or explore the countryside. With flat, easy trails for all levels, it’s the best way to experience the stunning region.
