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𝘕𝘰𝘳𝘵𝘩 𝘐𝘴𝘭𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘍𝘢𝘷𝘦𝘴: Hawkes Bay, NZ

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You’ve got to check out one of New Zealand’s most-loved spots—it’s got sun-soaked vineyards, golden beaches, and even a touch of Art Deco charm. Honestly, whether you’re sipping wine at a hilltop cellar, cycling along quiet orchard-lined roads, or ju...
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📍The Journey Starts Here

Hawke’s Bay is seriously one of those spots that just clicks—sunny vineyards, golden beaches, and a dash of Art Deco charm everywhere you look. You can spend your day cycling through rolling vineyards, grabbing fresh goodies at farmers’ markets, or j...

 
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Explore all the local hot spots and fun activities waiting for you around every corner. Whether it’s tasting wines at boutique vineyards, wandering through vibrant art galleries, or catching the waves at a nearby beach, there’s something here to spar...
Hawke's Bay Travel Guide 2025:

Activities

From the stunning craggy slopes of Te Mata Peak and Cape Kidnappers to the fascinating marine life at the National Aquarium and the splash-tastic fun of Splash Planet, there’s honestly something for everyone here. Whether you’re after outdoor adventu...

 
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A bit of a drive from town but absolutely worth the trip. These natural hot springs offer the perfect way to unwind and soak in some stunning surroundings. Whether you’re after a peaceful soak to relax tired muscles or a unique nature experience, the...
Mangatutu Hot Springs
 
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There’s nothing better than hopping on a bike and just cruising through Hawke’s Bay’s vineyards. The scenery is gorgeous, with rolling hills and cute little cellar doors popping up along the way. You can take it super easy—stop for wine tastings, sna...
Winery Tour | On Yer Bike
 
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Cape Kidnappers is one of those places that totally takes your breath away. As you wander along the rugged headland, you’ll catch incredible coastal views while hearing stories about its Maori heritage, early European settlers, and the unique wildlif...
Cape Kidnappers
 
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You’ve got to check out this day tour—it’s such an easy way to see the best of Hawke’s Bay. You’ll cruise past rolling vineyards, swing by golden beaches, wander through cute little towns, and of course, hit up some amazing local food and wine. There...
Hawkes Bay Day Tour
 
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If you’re up for something a bit different, hop on a Supertrike and take a scenic ride through Tukituki Valley up to the peak of Te Mata. The tours are tiny—just four people—so it’s super relaxed and you get a proper intimate vibe, but you still spli...
Supertrike Te Mata Peak Tour
 
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You can wander through the exhibits at your own pace—from mountains to sea—and there’s so much to see. You’ll spot native stuff like brown kiwi and tuatara, plus eels and introduced species, before ending up at the big underwater tank. Watching sting...
National Aquarium of NZ
 
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Maraetotara Falls is one of those hidden gems in Hawke’s Bay—a peaceful little waterfall tucked into lush native bush, with a refreshing swimming hole at the bottom. The walk from the road is super easy, and along the way, you’ll spot remnants of an ...
Maraetotara Falls
 
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This is by far the most impressive and largest waterfall I’ve ever come across—it honestly stops you in your tracks. The sheer power of the water, the mist in the air, and the roar as it crashes down all come together to create something really speci...
Shine Falls
 
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This particular walk is a bit of a local icon, and getting there means a medium-intensity walk that’s totally worth it. The track winds through a mix of forests and trees and you eventually come out into an open space which is known as Bell Rock. Alo...
Adventure to Bell Rock
 
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Just 3 km out of Havelock North, and the new cycle way makes getting there a super easy and really pleasant ride. The gallery and the tiny Sweet Shop are a total must-see, whether you’re with kids or just feeling a bit curious yourself. They’ve moved...
Birdwoods Lolly Shop

Restaurants

If you’re in the Bay, eating well is basically a given. There are cozy little cafés with fresh local goodies, lively spots showing off the season’s best flavors, and everything in between—so no matter what you’re craving, there’s a spot for it. Fresh...

 
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Here is one of my fave places to dine out. They have good pricing and wholesome food that feels like a home-cooked meal, made with fresh, local ingredients. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, perfect for catching up with friends or enjoying a l...
Valley D'Vine
 
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Pipi's has such amazing tasting food! I highly recommend it for anyone who loves fresh, flavourful dishes made with care. The menu offers a great mix of classic favourites and creative twists, so there’s something for every palate. Plus, the friendly...
Pipi's Pizza Cafe & Truck
 
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Central Fire Station Bistro in Napier is such a fun spot. The building’s got loads of character, so even just sitting down there feels kind of special. The food’s hearty and really well done—perfect whether you’re just grabbing lunch or settling in f...
Central Fire Station Bistro
 
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Cutneys’ cheesecakes are honestly next-level. If you love dessert, you’ve got to check them out. They’re super creamy, rich, and just the right amount of sweet, with all kinds of classic and creative flavours to try. Grab a slice to go or sit down an...
Cuteneys Cakes
 
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This café is such a fun little find! Outside, they’ve got these vintage McDonald’s playground pieces that are honestly hilarious and totally nostalgic—kids go wild for them, and adults can’t help but smile too. Inside, it’s super relaxed, the coffee’...
Hatuma Cafe, Waipukurau
 
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So there’s this new cocktail bar in town called Mixd! I haven’t made it there yet, but everything I’ve seen so far looks so good. The vibe seems really modern and stylish—like the perfect spot for a night out. The photos show this gorgeous interior w...
Mix'd Cocktail Bar
 
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Madame Social is in such a stunning spot on the corner of West & Customs Quay—you can’t help but want to take a photo before you even sit down. The whole place has this fun, stylish vibe with heaps of personality, and the menu is such a cool mix ...
Madame Social | Asian Fusion
 
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Tucked away in the heart of Hawke’s Bay, Craggy Range Winery honestly feels like its own little oasis. It’s been around since 1998 and has picked up some pretty impressive awards over the years—Two Hats and Winery Restaurant of the Year—so you know t...
Craggy Range

Acomodation

There are so many cool places to stay—it’s really just about finding the one that feels like your kind of spot. You’ve got everything from cute boutique hotels and homely B&Bs to modern apartments and holiday parks with seriously amazing views. Whether you’re after a peaceful little escape or want to be right in the middle of all the action, browsing through the options is half the fun. And honestly, the right place can...

 
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This spot couldn’t be more convenient—cafes, restaurants, and the buzzing nightlife are right around the corner, and the waterfront promenade is literally just steps away. It’s the perfect base whether you’re keen on a relaxed brunch, a sunset wander...
Crashpalace Backpackers, NPR
 
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Kennedy Park Resort is super easy to reach—just a quick 5-minute drive from Napier’s city centre and only 15 minutes from the airport. It’s an ideal base whether you’re here for a family getaway, a weekend escape, or simply passing through. Cafes, sh...
Kennedy Park Resort, Napier
 
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This eco-friendly hotel is right in the middle of Napier, so getting around is a breeze. They’ve got a 24-hour front desk and an on-site restaurant with fresh, local food, which is super handy. The rooms have everything you need, whether you’re here ...
Scenic Hotel Te Pania, Napier
 
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Porters Hotel in Havelock North is honestly just a really nice place to stay. The rooms are super comfy and feel a bit fancy without trying too hard, and the free parking is such a win. Plus, you can literally wander out the door and be at all the cu...
Porters Hotel, Havelock North
 
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If you’re into old-school charm, this Art Deco spot on Napier’s waterfront is awesome. The building’s been beautifully restored, and the rooms are super cosy and full of character—some even have balconies with ocean views, perfect for your morning co...
Art Deco Masonic Hotel
 
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The rooms are simple and clean, but honestly, they’ve got everything you actually need—comfy beds, a little kitchenette for quick meals, air-con, and even a patio to just hang out on. It’s not fancy, but it’s the kind of place where you feel at home ...
Comfort Inn Westshore Beach
 
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Right on the waterfront with amazing Pacific views, the Art Deco Masonic Hotel really nails that classic Napier charm. There’s free WiFi, two bars, and two restaurants, so you’ve got everything you need without leaving. It’s super central too—10 minu...
Art Deco Masonic Hotel
 
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If you’re looking to really switch off, this five-star lodge in Hawke’s Bay is something else. It’s spread over 6,000 acres of rolling pastures and cliffs with killer Pacific views—total escape mode. You can wander the working sheep and cattle farm, ...
Rosewood Cape Kidnappers