Hawke's Bay · Travel guide · Updated 2026

Hawke's Bay: A Symphony of Nature and Culture

Discover Hawke's Bay, New Zealand's gem of vineyards, beaches, and art deco charm, offering a blend of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and gourmet delights.

Hawke's Bay, located on the eastern coast of New Zealand's North Island, is a stunning blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. Famous for its rolling vineyards, pristine beaches, and art deco architecture, this region is a paradise for wine lovers, beachgoers, and history enthusiasts alike. The temperate climate and fertile soil make it one of New Zealand's premier wine-producing areas, with over 70 wineries offering tastings and tours. The scenic landscapes, from the rugged coastline to the lush hinterlands, provide a picturesque backdrop for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and surfing. In addition to its natural allure, Hawke's Bay is home to the charming cities of Napier and Hastings. Napier, often referred to as the Art Deco Capital of the World, boasts beautifully preserved 1930s architecture, a legacy of the city's reconstruction after the 1931 earthquake. Strolling through Napier's streets feels like stepping back in time, with its pastel-colored buildings and vintage charm. Hastings, on the other hand, is a haven for foodies, offering a variety of gourmet experiences from farm-to-table dining to bustling farmers' markets. The region also has a rich Maori heritage, with opportunities to experience traditional Maori culture through guided tours and cultural performances. Whether you are exploring the gannet colony at Cape Kidnappers, enjoying the vibrant local arts scene, or simply relaxing with a glass of world-class wine, Hawke's Bay promises an unforgettable experience for every traveler.

Napier

National Aquarium of New Zealand

Discover Hawke's Bay, New Zealand's gem of vineyards, beaches, and art deco charm, offering a blend of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and gourmet delights.

Tuki Tuki

Te Mata Peak

Discover Hawke's Bay, New Zealand's gem of vineyards, beaches, and art deco charm, offering a blend of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and gourmet delights.

Napier

Bluff Hill Lookout

Discover Hawke's Bay, New Zealand's gem of vineyards, beaches, and art deco charm, offering a blend of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and gourmet delights.

Hastings

Cornwall Park

Discover Hawke's Bay, New Zealand's gem of vineyards, beaches, and art deco charm, offering a blend of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and gourmet delights.

Havelock North

Birdwoods - Gallery, Cafe, Sweet Shop & Sculpture Garden

Discover Hawke's Bay, New Zealand's gem of vineyards, beaches, and art deco charm, offering a blend of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and gourmet delights.

Hastings

Splash Planet

Discover Hawke's Bay, New Zealand's gem of vineyards, beaches, and art deco charm, offering a blend of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and gourmet delights.

Napier

Napier isite Visitor Information Centre

Discover Hawke's Bay, New Zealand's gem of vineyards, beaches, and art deco charm, offering a blend of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and gourmet delights.

Napier

Botanical Gardens

Discover Hawke's Bay, New Zealand's gem of vineyards, beaches, and art deco charm, offering a blend of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and gourmet delights.

Haumoana

Hawkes Bay Farmyard Zoo

Discover Hawke's Bay, New Zealand's gem of vineyards, beaches, and art deco charm, offering a blend of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and gourmet delights.

When is the best time to go to Hawke's Bay?

Weather at a glance

Use the monthly temperature and precipitation trends to compare typical conditions throughout the year and choose the best time for your visit.

Temperature

°C

Precipitation

mm
Warmest monthsDec–Mar
Longest daylightNov–Feb
Driest periodNov–Mar

Explore places in Hawke's Bay

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    Famous landmarks to explore

    Discover the best-known sights in Hawke's Bay, from historic icons to standout landmarks that define the destination.

    National Aquarium of New Zealand

    Discover the aquatic wonders at the National Aquarium of New Zealand, where marine life and conservation come together in an unforgettable experience.

    National Aquarium of New Zealand

    Te Mata Peak

    Discover breathtaking panoramas and rich cultural heritage at Te Mata Peak, a must-visit scenic spot in Hawke's Bay, New Zealand.

    Te Mata Peak

    Bluff Hill Lookout

    Experience breathtaking views at Bluff Hill Lookout, a historic landmark in Napier, showcasing stunning coastal vistas and rich maritime heritage.

    Bluff Hill Lookout

    Splash Planet

    Dive into adventure at Splash Planet, New Zealand's top water park featuring thrilling rides, relaxing pools, and family fun in Hastings.

    Splash Planet

    Hawkes Bay Farmers Market

    Discover the essence of New Zealand's local culture at Hawkes Bay Farmers Market, featuring fresh produce, artisanal goods, and a lively community atmosphere.

    Hawkes Bay Farmers Market

    Birdwoods - Gallery, Cafe, Sweet Shop & Sculpture Garden

    Experience the enchanting blend of art, sweet treats, and sculpture gardens at Birdwoods in Havelock North, a must-visit destination for all travelers.

    Birdwoods - Gallery, Cafe, Sweet Shop & Sculpture Garden

    Craggy Range

    Discover Craggy Range, a premier winery in Havelock North, offering exquisite wines, stunning views, and an unforgettable dining experience.

    Craggy Range

    Napier isite Visitor Information Centre

    Explore Napier's rich culture, stunning landscapes, and local attractions at the i-SITE Visitor Information Centre, your gateway to Hawke's Bay.

    Napier isite Visitor Information Centre

    Silky Oak Chocolates

    Discover the magic of chocolate at Silky Oak Chocolates in Waiohiki, where artisanal treats and a unique chocolate-making experience await you.

    Silky Oak Chocolates

    Top attractions to visit

    Explore the unforgettable attractions in Hawke's Bay, from cultural highlights to popular visitor favourites.

    National Aquarium of New Zealand

    Explore the vibrant marine life and unique wildlife at the National Aquarium of New Zealand in Napier, a top family-friendly attraction for all ages.

    National Aquarium of New Zealand

    Te Mata Peak

    Discover the breathtaking beauty and cultural significance of Te Mata Peak, a must-visit destination in New Zealand's Hawke's Bay.

    Te Mata Peak

    Bluff Hill Lookout

    Experience breathtaking views and rich history at Bluff Hill Lookout, a must-visit tourist attraction in Napier, New Zealand.

    Bluff Hill Lookout

    Splash Planet

    Dive into adventure at Splash Planet, New Zealand's premier water park in Hastings, where fun, relaxation, and excitement await visitors of all ages.

    Splash Planet

    Cornwall Park

    Discover the tranquility and beauty of Cornwall Park in Hastings, a perfect blend of nature, history, and recreational activities for all ages.

    Cornwall Park

    Hawkes Bay Farmers Market

    Experience the vibrant flavors of Hawkes Bay at the Farmers Market, where local produce and artisanal delights come together in a lively community setting.

    Hawkes Bay Farmers Market

    Birdwoods - Gallery, Cafe, Sweet Shop & Sculpture Garden

    Discover Birdwoods: A delightful café, art gallery, and sculpture garden in Havelock North, offering a unique blend of art, flavor, and natural beauty.

    Birdwoods - Gallery, Cafe, Sweet Shop & Sculpture Garden

    Napier isite Visitor Information Centre

    Discover Napier's iSite Visitor Information Centre, your essential stop for local insights and travel tips in the beautiful Hawke's Bay region.

    Napier isite Visitor Information Centre

    Perfume Point

    Explore Perfume Point in Napier – A stunning coastal attraction where nature meets history and breathtaking views await.

    Perfume Point

    Essential places to dine

    Find restaurants in Hawke's Bay for every mood, from local favourites and casual spots to memorable dining experiences.

    Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

    Browse standout shopping spots in Hawke's Bay, from major retail streets to independent boutiques and local finds.

    Essential bars & hidden hideouts

    Explore bars in Hawke's Bay for cocktails, relaxed drinks, lively evenings, and memorable local atmosphere.

    Milford Sound landscape in New Zealand image - Free stock photo - Public  Domain photo - CC0 Images
    Destination guide

    More about New Zealand

    New Zealand: Discover awe-inspiring landscapes, vibrant Maori culture, and thrilling adventures in a land of breathtaking natural beauty and welcoming locals.

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    Explore Hawke's Bay in Photos

    A quick visual route through countryside views, towns, gardens, and regional day-trip atmosphere.

    File:Te Mata Peak (204548379).jpeg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Art Deco buildings in Napier - ASB Bank and T & G Building.jpg -  Wikimedia Commons
    File:Cape Kidnappers, NZ.jpg - Wikipedia
    File:HB Vineyard autumn.JPG - Wikipedia
    File:Marine Parade viewing platform on Napier's waterfront.jpg - Wikimedia  Commons
    Free Images : color, jam, hot pepper, domestic, fair, canning, sense, food  preservation 3000x3813 - - 1046548 - Free stock photos - PxHere
    File:Gannet colony cape kidnappers.jpg - Wikipedia
    File:Havelock North Clock Tower Building.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Port of Napier as seen from Bluff Hill Lookout (14757349814).jpg -  Wikimedia Commons
    File:Mission Estate Winery 55.JPG - Wikimedia Commons

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