Hawke's Bay

New Zeland

For travellers, Hawke’s Bay Wine Country presents an eclectic mix of visual and sensual experiences. The region is New Zealand’s leading producer of red wines, has the greatest concentration of Art Deco architecture and hosts the country’s most elaborate celebrations of Matariki - the Maori New Year. As if that weren’t enough, Hawke’s Bay is also known for its artisan gourmet foods and glorious beaches that stretch from Mahia Peninsula in the north to Porangahau in the south.
Days of indulgence and Art Deco

The landscapes of Hawke’s Bay begin with the high, forested Ruahine and Kaweka Ranges. From the mountains, the land steps down towards the coast, flattening out to become the Heretaunga Plains. A number of wide rivers run swiftly to meet the blue Pacific Ocean. The twin cities of Napier and Hastings are the main population centres.

Blessed with a sunny, Mediterranean-style climate, Hawke’s Bay is one of New Zealand’s warmest, driest regions.
Key Features

Taste sensations

The agricultural heritage of Hawke’s Bay lives on in the region’s wineries, orchards and artisan food producers. At any time of the year, you can follow food and wine trails to discover exceptional taste sensations.

Wildlife by the sea

Cape Kidnappers nature reserve is home to the largest and most accessible mainland gannet colony in the world. Known to Maori as takapu, these birds usually breed on islands.

Unusual places

From elegant Art Deco architecture to a settlement with the world’s longest place name, Hawke’s Bay will capture your interest with amazing stories. Learn about the past, both ancient and recent, with a local guide.

Key Tips

Two domestic airlines service the Hawke’s Bay airport. Regular, daily schedules link the region to three international airports. Explore Hawke’s Bay using the food, wine and art trails found at visitor information centres around the region.
Three touring routes pass through Hawke’s Bay - the Thermal Explorer Highway, Pacific Coast Highway and the Classic New Zealand Wine Trail.
Historical homesteads and quaint antique shops provide a glimpse of the pioneering spirit of Central Hawke’s Bay.