Hawke’s Bay comprises the Art Deco town of Napier, the foodies’ haven of Hastings, the wineries of Taradale, and diverse forest, mountain and ocean ecosystems. Explore the vineyards on a cycle trail, take a hike to a hot spring, and view the bay from the Te Mata Peak.
The two main towns of Hawke’s Bay, Napier and Hastings, were rebuilt in the Art Deco and Spanish Mission styles after an earthquake in 1930. Although it’s easy to spend hours just photographing the Art Deco architecture of Napier, there are also antiques and nostalgia stores, a cultural and natural history museum, an aquarium and seaside boulevards to be enjoyed. Just a few minutes drive away is Hastings, a foodies’ heaven surrounded by fertile fruit and vegetable farms and vineyards, and cheese producers. Enjoy Hastings’ public parks and gardens, and the Spanish Mission architecture in the warm and sunny climate of the Bay.
Nature is never far from these twin towns. Te Mata Peak near Hastings, has hiking and cycling trails up to a viewing platform 1300 feet (400 meters) above sea level with spectacular views over Hawkes Bay. Take a tractor tour along the beach at Cape Kidnappers to see the largest mainland gannet colony in the world. Cycle the oceanfront, around coastal villages, or between vineyards on one of the cycle trails.
At the northern tip of the bay are some more secluded spots. Explore the native beech forests as you hike in to the Morere Hot Springs, for a relaxing sit in the thermal pools. Beaches span the whole coast but are best for swimming and surfing at the picturesque Mahia Peninsular. To the south of Hastings is Waimarama, where the Maori fortress Haikikino once stood. Take a tour at Haikikino to see the remains of the village, learn about traditional foods, and immerse yourself in Maori legends and cultural practices.
Throughout the warmer months Hawkes Bay is alive with food and wine festivals and music in the parklands. Napier’s famous Art Deco Weekend in February, when vintage cars, jazz, dancing and costumes attracts thousands of tourists annually.
