Hawke's Bay, New Zealand

Days of indulgence and Art Deco

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.

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.

On the Clive River between Napier and Hastings, the Nga Tukemata O Kahungunu Waka enterprise offers visitors an authentic waka experience. Their 100% authentic wooden waka measures 20 metres in length and weighs 6 tonne. The waka is licensed to carry 36 paddlers and one steerer. Rides take approximately one hour, starting with a safety brief. Photo by Scott Venning (scottv@ihug.co.nz) Click on the image for larger version

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.