Overview

Hawke’s Bay, located on the eastern coast of New Zealand’s North Island, is renowned for its sun-drenched climate, world-class wineries, Art Deco architecture, fertile farmland, and scenic coastlines. With its unique mix of natural beauty, history, culture, and culinary excellence, Hawke’s Bay is a must-visit region for foodies, wine lovers, and relaxed explorers alike.

  • Main Centres: Napier, Hastings, Havelock North, Wairoa, Waipawa
  • Population: ~190,000 (2024 est.)
  • Time Zone: New Zealand Standard Time (NZST) UTC+12 / NZDT (Daylight Saving)
  • Climate: Mediterranean-style — warm, dry summers and mild winters

Top Destinations in Hawke’s Bay

Napier

A seaside city famous for its beautifully preserved Art Deco architecture, boutique shops, and oceanfront paths.

Hastings

The region’s agricultural and viticultural heart, surrounded by orchards, markets, and wineries.

Havelock North

A charming village nestled under Te Mata Peak — a hub for artisan food, wine, and boutique accommodation.

Cape Kidnappers

A dramatic peninsula home to the world’s largest mainland gannet colony and luxury coastal golf resorts.

Wairoa & Mahia Peninsula

A gateway to remote beaches, Māori culture, and the launch site of Rocket Lab’s space missions.

Must-See Attractions

  • Napier Art Deco Walk – Discover 1930s architecture rebuilt after the 1931 earthquake
  • Te Mata Peak – Hike or drive to the summit for panoramic views of the region
  • Cape Kidnappers Gannet Colony – Visit by 4WD safari, walk, or boat tour
  • Hawke’s Bay Wineries – Over 200 vineyards, including some of NZ’s oldest and best for red wines
  • Sunday Farmers’ Market (Hastings) – A lively showcase of local produce and flavors

Things to Do

  • Cycle the Hawke’s Bay Trails – 200+ km of scenic, flat bike paths through vineyards, coast, and countryside
  • Relax on the beaches – Try Waimārama, Ocean Beach, or Mahia Peninsula
  • Taste your way through cellar doors, farm shops, and fine dining restaurants
  • Join a guided Māori cultural tour in Wairoa or Napier
  • Attend an Art Deco-themed event in Napier, especially during the annual festival

Getting There & Around

Airport

  • Hawke’s Bay Airport (NPE), located near Napier

Transport

  • Rental cars are ideal for exploring vineyards and rural areas
  • Local buses run between Napier, Hastings, and Havelock North
  • Bicycle hire available for trails and winery tours

Best Time to Visit

  • Summer (Dec–Feb): Ideal for beach days, vineyard tours, and outdoor dining
  • Autumn (Mar–May): Harvest season, grape picking, and golden foliage
  • Winter (Jun–Aug): Mild weather, cozy wine tastings, and fewer crowds
  • Spring (Sep–Nov): Blossoms, baby animals, and farmers’ markets in full swing

Local Food & Culture

  • Cuisine: A food lover’s paradise — fresh produce, artisan cheeses, olives, seafood, and seasonal fare
  • Specialties: Syrah and Bordeaux-style reds, stone fruits, lamb, honey, and artisan ice cream
  • Markets: Hawke’s Bay Farmers’ Market, Napier Urban Farmers’ Market
  • Events: Napier Art Deco Festival, FAWC! (Food and Wine Classic), Harvest Hawke’s Bay, Winter F.A.W.C!
  • Māori Culture: Strong iwi presence (Ngāti Kahungunu) with guided cultural tours, carving, and storytelling

Souvenirs from Hawke’s Bay

  • Locally bottled wine and olive oil
  • Art Deco-themed gifts and homewares
  • Māori carvings and greenstone jewelry
  • Jams, honey, and sauces from local producers

Fun Facts

  • Hawke’s Bay is New Zealand’s oldest wine-producing region, with winemaking dating back to the 1850s
  • Napier was rebuilt in Art Deco style after a devastating 1931 earthquake
  • Cape Kidnappers was named by Captain Cook after an incident involving Māori and his crew
  • The region enjoys over 2,200 hours of sunshine per year, making it one of NZ’s sunniest spots

Suggested Itineraries

3-Day Wine & Coast Getaway

  • Day 1: Explore Napier’s Art Deco district + Marine Parade walk
  • Day 2: Cycle to wineries + lunch in Havelock North
  • Day 3: Sunrise at Te Mata Peak + beach time at Waimārama

5-Day Food, Culture & Nature Escape

  • Day 1: Napier city tour + Art Deco walking tour
  • Day 2: Wine trail through Bridge Pa or Gimblett Gravels
  • Day 3: Gannet Safari to Cape Kidnappers + beach picnic
  • Day 4: Māori cultural tour in Wairoa + drive Mahia Peninsula
  • Day 5: Farmers’ market + coastal trail or spa afternoon

Cities

  • Napier