Hawke's Bay – a premier New Zealand wine region

The Hawke's Bay region lies on the East Coast of the North Island and is one of the sunniest spots in the country. With its relaxed pace of life, lovely beaches and friendly people, the Hawke's Bay is a great place to raise a family. Well known for its great wines, it also produces over 50% of New Zealand's pip-fruit export.

horses on a beach

The four main centres in the region are Napier, Hastings, Wairoa and Waipukurau. Most of the Hawke's Bay population is based in one of the twin cities – Napier or Hastings – located a mere 15 minutes from one another.

Napier

Napier is famous for its distinct architecture. The devastation caused by a large earthquake and fire in 1931 resulted in the city being entirely rebuilt. Napier's high concentration of Art Deco style buildings makes it unique worldwide. The city has a thriving café scene, good shopping and is situated right on the coast.

Hastings

Hastings also has an architecturally distinct style, with buildings built by the Spanish Mission after the 1931 earthquake. Every Sunday morning there is a popular farmers’ market in town, where you can buy local produce and specialty foods.

Wine and food

Hawke's Bay is home to over 70 wineries, and is the second-largest wine production region in New Zealand. Many vineyards are open to the public for wine tasting, making it easy to while away a sun soaked afternoon in a vineyard café or restaurant. The Hawke's Bay is also one of New Zealand's top horticultural areas, producing apples, summer fruit, olives and, of course, lots of grapes!

The abundance of excellent local food is celebrated in the annual three-day Harvest Hawke's Bay food and wine festival.

Enjoy the great outdoors

Mountains, forests, rivers and a stunning coastline make the Hawke's Bay region an ideal environment for outdoor pursuits. You can hike in Te Urewera National Park, or explore the mountain bike trails in Eskdale MTB Park. Whether it's bird watching, fly fishing or surfing you enjoy, there really is something for everyone.

Live and work in the Hawke’s Bay where the geography, culture and lifestyle make the region truly first class!