Hawke’s Bay is a region on the east coast of the North Island of New Zealand, with its population centred on the Heretaunga Plains consisting of the twin cities of Napier and Hastings and satellite towns. The region is known for its unique mix of wine, food, scenery and relaxed coastal experiences. It is a sun-drenched east-coast landscape of vineyards, orchards and rolling hills, anchored by Art Deco Napier and the country town of Havelock North. Well-travelled visitors will find themselves in compelling terrain: after being almost completely rebuilt following an earthquake in 1931, Napier is a unique attraction as one of the most famous examples of Art Deco architecture in the world. Whether you come for the vineyards or the coast, Hawke’s Bay rewards the curious traveller.
Why go
Hawke’s Bay is one of New Zealand’s premier wine producing regions, a veritable treasure trove of vineyards offering wines of superlative quality, many of which have won both national and international acclaim. French Marist missionaries planted vines here to make sacramental wine, founding Mission Estate in 1851 — the country’s oldest winery, still producing today. For fine wine lovers, the region is best known for its Merlot Cabernet blends and Syrah, and equally impressive Chardonnays.
Tour the acclaimed wineries (famed for Syrah and Chardonnay) by car or bike, feast at vineyard restaurants and farm gates, climb Te Mata Peak for sweeping views, browse the farmers markets, and indulge in the region’s superb produce. Cape Kidnappers is home to the world’s largest mainland gannet colony. With a vibrant art scene and a rich Māori culture, this part of New Zealand is a delight for wine lovers, nature enthusiasts and history buffs.
When to go
Hawke’s Bay boasts a mild Mediterranean climate with some of New Zealand’s best and most consistent weather. Summer (December through February) is the standout, delivering the warmest weather, the longest days, and Napier’s famous Art Deco Festival in February. Tourism volume drops significantly from March onward, and accommodation prices follow, making this one of the best stretches for budget-conscious travellers who still want warm, settled weather.
Winter is also a nice time to travel to Hawke’s Bay as temperatures don’t get down to freezing levels like elsewhere in New Zealand, with most mornings clear and crisp, allowing you to spend the majority of your time soaking up the beautiful winter sunshine. The four mellow seasons mean that Hawke’s Bay is a perfect destination for your trip at any time of the year.
Where to stay
Hawke’s Bay luxury accommodation is vast and varied, from lavish lodges to standalone guesthouses. Accommodation ranges from boutique hotels nestled in the vines, to elegant lodges overlooking the coastline. Those seeking rural seclusion will find country retreats and B&Bs, while luxury lodges and boutique hotels sit comfortably near the region’s heart. For smaller groups, villas and holiday homes offer privacy amongst vineyards and farmland, whilst luxury apartments provide convenient access to towns.
Kiwiesque offers luxurious, versatile accommodation ideal for special events, retreats, or extended stays, with two exceptional dwellings — the Luxury Lodge and Vineyard Villa — available individually or booked together. Mangapapa Hotel, set amid gardens, orchards and landscaped grounds, offers boutique accommodation at the heart of the region. For those seeking wellness-focused stays, spa and wellness retreats provide restorative experiences; Cape South Country Escape & Wellness Retreat combines rural tranquillity with therapeutic offerings.
Browse the full range of Hawke’s Bay luxury stays and experiences curated for discerning travellers.
What to do
- Wine tasting at more than 35 cellar doors across the region, particularly for Syrah, Chardonnay and Merlot Cabernet blends
- Cycling or driving through vineyards and orchards, with farm-to-table dining at vineyard restaurants
- Exploring Napier’s Art Deco architecture and its waterfront promenade at Ahuriri
- Visiting Cape Kidnappers to see the gannet colony
- Climbing Te Mata Peak for panoramic views across the Heretaunga Plains and Hawke’s Bay
- Browsing farmers markets and orchards for fresh local produce
- Browsing galleries and attending cultural events and festivals throughout the year
Getting there
The main cities are located close to each other — Napier on the coast, and Hastings 17 km inland. Napier has an airport with regional connections to New Zealand’s major cities. Driving from Auckland takes approximately 5 hours; from Wellington about 2.5 hours. Hawke’s Bay on the North Island’s east coast has a temperate, relatively dry climate with warm summers and mild winters, making it one of New Zealand’s sunniest regions. A rental car is the most convenient way to explore wineries, coastal drives and rural attractions.
