Hawkes Bay

General Info

The Hawke's Bay region, located on the east coast of New Zealand’s North Island, is renowned for its beautiful landscapes, award-winning wineries, and charming coastal towns. The population of the Hawke's Bay region is approximately 180,000. The region is known for its sunny climate, fertile soil, and a strong agricultural industry, particularly in viticulture, fruit growing, and horticulture. Hawke's Bay is a popular destination for wine lovers, food enthusiasts, and those seeking outdoor adventures. The region also boasts a rich cultural heritage, with Maori history, colonial architecture, and a vibrant arts scene in cities like Napier and Hastings.

Top 10 Tourism Activities

1. Wine Tasting in the Gimblett Gravels – Hawke's Bay is one of New Zealand’s premier wine regions, with vineyards like the Gimblett Gravels offering tastings of world-class wines in beautiful settings.

2. Visit the Napier Art Deco District – Explore Napier's famous Art Deco architecture, which was rebuilt after the 1931 earthquake, offering a unique glimpse into early 20th-century design.

3. Hawke’s Bay Farmers’ Market – Enjoy fresh local produce, artisan foods, and handmade goods at the Hawke's Bay Farmers' Market, held every Sunday in Hastings, a great way to experience local flavors.

4. Cycling the Hawke’s Bay Trails – The region is home to several scenic cycling trails that take you through vineyards, coastal scenery, and picturesque countryside, ideal for cyclists of all levels.

5. Visit Te Mata Peak – For panoramic views of Hawke's Bay, hike or drive to the top of Te Mata Peak, one of the region’s most iconic natural landmarks.

6. Explore Cape Kidnappers – Take a tour to Cape Kidnappers, home to one of the largest gannet colonies in the world, and enjoy stunning views of the rugged coastline.

7. Visit the Hawke’s Bay Museum and Art Gallery – Learn about the region’s history, including its Maori heritage and colonial past, while enjoying the art exhibits in Napier’s museum and gallery.

8. Experience the Hastings City Art Deco Tour – Join a guided tour of Hastings to discover its rich architectural heritage and the Art Deco influence that transformed the city.

9. Bird Watching at the Ahuriri Estuary – The Ahuriri Estuary, located in Napier, is a key spot for bird watching, with migratory birds and native species frequently seen in the wetlands.

10. Take a Scenic Flight over the Cape Kidnappers – For a unique perspective of Hawke's Bay, take a scenic flight over Cape Kidnappers to see the gannet colonies, beaches, and rugged coastline from the air.

Top 10 Natural Attractions

1. Te Mata Peak – Offering panoramic views of the Hawke’s Bay region, Te Mata Peak is a stunning natural landmark that provides hiking trails and breathtaking vistas.

2. Cape Kidnappers – A dramatic headland on the Hawke’s Bay coastline, famous for its steep cliffs, sandy beaches, and the world’s largest gannet colony, which can be explored on guided tours.

3. Hawke’s Bay Coastal Walkway – A scenic coastal walk that stretches for 200 kilometers along the region’s stunning coastline, offering views of beaches, estuaries, and native bush.

4. Waimarama Beach – A popular beach located just south of Hastings, known for its golden sands and clear waters, perfect for swimming, surfing, and picnicking.

5. Lake Tutira – A picturesque lake surrounded by native bush, ideal for walking, birdwatching, and picnicking, located in the northern part of the region.

6. Mangatutu Hot Springs – Nestled in the Tuki Tuki Valley, these geothermal hot springs offer a relaxing natural experience in a peaceful, rural setting.

7. Napier’s Marine Parade – This waterfront area in Napier offers a mix of natural beauty, parks, and beaches, perfect for a leisurely stroll or family outing with views of the Pacific Ocean.

8. Kahuranaki Track – A popular hiking track in the heart of Hawke’s Bay, offering panoramic views of the region’s valleys, forests, and farmland.

9. Clifton Bay – A secluded, picturesque bay near Cape Kidnappers, known for its tranquil waters and scenic views, perfect for beachcombing and birdwatching.

10. Te Angi Angi Marine Reserve – A marine reserve offering excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities, where visitors can explore the diverse underwater life of the region’s coast.

Hawke's Bay is a region rich in both natural beauty and cultural heritage, offering visitors a unique blend of outdoor activities, historical sites, and world-class wine and food experiences.