Whether it’s a lazy summer alfresco lunch, a long walk on a beach in the golden light of autumn, a glass of merlot beside a toasty winter’s fire or the dazzling view from Te Mata Peak on a crisp spring morning, you’ll want to stay awhile to discover Hawke’s Bay.
Hawke’s Bay is also home to a world-class concentration of Art Deco architecture, fresh local produce and artisan food producers complemented by a vibrant arts scene and a rich Maori culture. The region also hosts a number of ‘must see’ events throughout the year.
Things to see and do
Hawke’s Bay is a region of contrasts with a diverse range of things to see and do. For families enjoying the sun, there are golden sand beaches, the Splash Planet water theme park, and crystal clear rivers to explore. Visit the National Aquarium of New Zealand, swim with dolphins or view the largest most accessible mainland Gannet colony in the world.
For the mild to wild adventurer take a jet boat or cycle between wineries. Experience hot air ballooning at sunrise or surfing in Mahia. Paraglide off Te Mata Peak, hike or take a leisurely journey along one of the 17 heritage trails around the region. You can hunt in the ranges, fish for brown and rainbow trout or play golf at one of the 20 local courses.
With wine and food being a part of everyday life in Hawke’s Bay it is no surprise that there are many culinary events and festival on the calendar to indulge in.
Hawke’s Bay Wines
This regions long hot summers and cool winters provides ideal growing conditions for grapes. No surprise then, that Hawke’s Bay is the country’s oldest winemaking region and is recognised on the world stage for award winning wines, particularly for the quality of its red wines. Grape growing is not confined to one area of Hawke’s Bay and each specific area or sub region offers a different variety and flavor. In fact Hawke’s Bay has an ability to produce exceptional wines across a broad spectrum of styles. This includes the early ripening varieties such as Pinot Noir, Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc to the later Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.
There are many ways of experiencing the vintages of Hawke’s Bay Wine Country. You can self drive with a Hawke’s Bay Wine Guide, take a wine tour hosted by a local operator either by coach, limousine, bicycle or horse and cart. As you visit some of the 40 or so wineries scattered throughout the region you will see wine making at its best. Many of these wineries have an open door policy and like to show their wine making prowess, their impressive wine cellars and gold medal winning labels.
Dining Out
The beauty of visiting Hawke’s Bay is the ability to immerse yourself in exceptional local wines and fresh produce at any one of this region's wide range of casual or fine-dining eateries. Most cafes and restaurants only use local produce, which is not only fresh but grown on some of New Zealand’s most fertile land. From award winning wines, organic goods, fresh produce, gourmet meats and a vast array of epicurean delights; every meal you have during your stay will be a memorable one. Although Hawke's Bay has a focus on alfresco dining, all tastes and dining options are available.
The Wine Country Food Trail features 85 stops, providing food-lovers with a complete gourmet experience. Locals and visitors alike can discover the epicurean delights on offer - everything from gourmet meats and small goods, to game and seafood, to olives, honey, eggs, cheese and chocolate.
Shopping
Need some retail therapy? Hawke’s Bay has shops to suit all tastes from designer boutiques to the big names. Inner cities through out the region buzz with activity. With palm-lined streets, unique architecture, and the atmosphere of events and festivals, shopping in Hawke’s Bay is a holiday pleasure. There is a vibrant café scene in Hawke’s Bay and numerous, impressive antique shops.
