Hawke’s Bay
As a proud Great Wine Capital of the World and New Zealand's oldest wine region, Te Matau-a-Māui Hawke’s Bay is food and wine country at its finest.
Bask in the Mediterranean climate, wander photogenic Art Deco streets and visit more than 30 cellar doors. Sample celebrated varietals including Syrah, Chardonnay and Merlot Cabernet blends, then feast at award-winning eateries, bustling farmers' markets, and vineyard restaurants. Easy, scenic cycleways offer another way to experience the region, winding through vines, orchards and stunning coastlines.
Known for
Bordeaux-style blended reds and chardonnay.
Food and wine country
As an official Great Wine Capital of the World, no trip to Hawke’s Bay would be complete without exploring the region's renowned wineries and cellar doors. With iconic names like Craggy Range, Mission Estate, and Church Road, the region is famous for full-bodied reds and complex chardonnays. Beyond the vines, discover a thriving craft scene with coffee roasters, breweries, gin distilleries, and local ciders.
When hunger strikes, indulge in the region’s incredible food scene, from long lunches at vineyard restaurants to bustling cafés and farmers’ markets, and artisan producers.
Explore at your own pace with the self-guided Wine & Food Map, hire a bike, or let a local expert take the wheel, for a taste of Hawke’s Bay by van or even helicopter.
Hawke’s Bay highlights
Hawke's Bay is an adventure playground with something for everyone. Hike, bike or drive to the summit of Te Mata Peak for spectacular views in every direction. Afterwards, cool off at one of the region's golden beaches or cast a line for trophy trout in some of the country's most prized fishing waters. Golfers will find world-class courses including Cape Kidnappers, while wildlife lovers can join a Gannet Safaris Overland tour to visit the world's largest mainland gannet colony.
Round it off with a visit to Napier - the Art Deco Capital of the World - where you'll find the highest concentration of Art Deco architecture anywhere on the planet, plus a thriving arts and culture scene to explore.
Must-visit events
Time your visit with one of Hawke’s Bay’s unmissable Art Deco, food and wine, or music events. Savour the region’s celebrated flavours at the Bridge Pa Wine Festival or Harvest Hawke’s Bay. Dance the night away at the legendary Mission Concert at Mission Estate Winery, or a black Barn Concert held in its own unique amphitheatre in the vines
The Art Deco Festival Napier is one to tick off the bucket list, attracting over 40,000 participants from all over New Zealand and around the world. The whole region steps back in time to relive the glamour of the 1920s-1940s, with more than 200 events, including outdoor concerts, vintage car parades, fashion shows, dining experiences, Great Gatsby picnics, and so much more.
