Hawkes Bay
Located on the east coast of the North Island, Hawkes Bay is
made up of several areas, each with their own diverse and
interesting traits.
Napier, the city by the sea, is renowned for its 1930's Art Deco
architecture. Razed by earthquake and fire in 1931, it was
rebuilt in the art deco style fashionable at the time.
Boasting a near Mediterranean climate with over 2,200 hours of
sunshine a year, this popular year-round destination has a vibrant
cafe culture. The city's inconic Marine Parade overlooks the
Pacific Ocean and out towards Cape Kidnappers, home to the World's
largest mainland gannet colony. Hastings is slightly further
south along the bay and the long hot Summers and mild Winters of
this district provide the perfect stimulant for a wide variety of
delicious fresh produce. Orchards are abundant in this
region and the climate is also perfect for grape growing where
Hawke's Bay is recognised on the World stage for its award-winning
wines.
The local wine industry continues to grow and each February the
region celebrates with Harvest Hawke's bay, a celebration of
winemaking in the area. Havelock North is the starting point
for a number of experiences, including driving, hiking or biking to
the top of Te Mata Peak (400m), wine tours and excursions to
Waimarama or Ocean Beaches.
The Art Deco architecture of Napier deserves special attention
and has been kept impeccably maintained to this day. Enjoy a
walking tour around the key attractions followed by a locally
roasted cup of coffee on Marine Parade taking in a view of the
sea.
The region's farmers markets bring the locally grown plentiful
produce to one convenient place - you can indulge in artisan
gourmet food.
The terrain is flat for easy riding. Spend the day taking
inn the vieyards by bike, ride past olive groves, vineyards and
orchards or stop to try the assortment of produce on offer.
During the Summer months take an enjoyable scenic walk or trip
along the remote coastline of Cape Kidnappers. Stop off at a
local vineyard for a delicious lunch followed by a viewing of the
Gannet Colony. This is the World's largest, most accessible
mainland gannet colony where you can get within a few feet of the
birds. All this under the towering cliffs of the Cape.
Take time out for a round of golf - is there a more dramatic
cliffside course anywhere in the World ?
Hawke's Bay is home to some wonderful gardens so take a tour of
some of the local highlights. The micro climate in the
region results in a wide range of plantings and you get to discover
your own hidden away garden oasis.
Catch a local trout from the great fishing waters of the
Tukituki River. A local guide with a wealth of experience
and knowledge will know just where the big one is hiding !
Enquire now