Hawke's Bay Wine Country

Hawke's Bay Wine Country, on New Zealand's North Island, is a sun-drenched paradise of rolling vineyards, art deco architecture, and gourmet food. With its Mediterranean-like climate, this region is the country's oldest wine-growing area, famed for its bold reds (especially Merlot and Syrah) and elegant Chardonnays. Beyond the cellar doors, you'll find farmers' markets, craft breweries, and a relaxed pace that invites lingering.

Highlights & What to See

• Wine Trail Cycle Tour: Rent a bike in Napier and pedal the flat, scenic trails between cellar doors in the Gimblett Gravels and Te Awanga sub-regions, stopping for tastings and vineyard lunches.
• Napier Art Deco Architecture: After the 1931 earthquake, Napier was rebuilt in stunning Art Deco style. Join a guided walking tour or simply wander the city centre to admire the pastel-coloured buildings with geometric motifs.
• Farmers' Market at Hawke's Bay Showgrounds: Every Saturday morning, this market brims with local cheeses, artisan breads, seasonal stone fruit, and freshly shucked oysters — perfect for a picnic.
• Cape Kidnappers Gannet Colony: Take a guided tour or drive to the clifftop reserve to see one of the world's largest and most accessible mainland gannet colonies (seasonal, Nov–Feb).
• Te Mata Peak: Hike or drive up this iconic limestone ridge for panoramic views over the vineyards, coastline, and across to the Kaweka Ranges.

Suggested Time to Spend

Three to four days is ideal to explore the main wine sub-regions, Napier's architecture, and a few outdoor activities. With two days you can hit the highlights — one day cycling the wine trail and another for art deco and a gannet tour. Add an extra day to hike Te Mata Peak, visit a craft brewery, or simply relax with a long lunch.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Napier — the coastal city with the art deco heart, just 10 minutes from the vineyards.
• Hastings — a grittier, creative hub with a thriving food scene and the Hawke's Bay Farmers' Market.
• Havelock North — a charming village at the base of Te Mata Peak, with boutique shops and cafes.
• Taupō — about 1.5 hours north, for geothermal wonders and the mighty lake.
• Gisborne — 2.5 hours east along the coast, for a different wine region and surf beaches.

Please check official sources for current details.