HISTORIC HAWKES BAY

Hawke’s Bay is New Zealand’s oldest wine region and is renowned for its Syrah, Merlot Cabernet blends, and Chardonnay. The weather was what attracted winemakers, and it is ideal for people, too.

The Mediterranean climate is complemented by the region’s rich history and beautiful landscapes. Well worth a stop is New Zealand’s home of Art Deco architecture, Napier. Here you’ll find plenty of options for great fare and shopping. The Central Fire Station Bistro, housed in, you guessed it, an impressive heritage fire station, has a menu of ever-evolving Hawke’s Bay produce and some of the region’s best wines.

If you’re in need of a pick me up, stop by Georgia’s on Tennyson for a cup of coffee made from freshly roasted in house beans. The Department of Curiosities hosts a mix of over 30 vendors – all New Zealand designer-makers.

Just a five-minute drive from Napier is the Ahuriri. This historic seaside village is packed with delicious dining options to suit every appetite. Head to the bustling West Quay, take your pick from the gastropubs and enjoy dinner while you watch the sunset over the harbour.

The local craft beer and cider scene are worthy of a peruse. Brave Brewing in Hastings is an award-winning brewery with an eatery and taproom. Hawke’s Bay is also home to Zeffer Cider; at the taproom and cidery in Fernhill, you can try everything from the original Crisp Apple Cider through to Apple Crumble and Guava and Lime.

The region is home to nearly 40 cellar doors, with the easy-riding Hawke’s Bay Trails providing cycle access to a great many of them. Hawke’s Bay specialises in luxury retreats and boutique accommodation. Take your pick of views – from vineyard and countryside to river and seaside.

The Art Deco Masonic Hotel in Napier and Mangapapa Hotel in Havelock North both offer stays in beautifully restored historic buildings, while Porters Boutique Hotel in Havelock North is stylish and modern. Many vineyards also have accommodation options.

MISSION ESTATE

Perhaps one of the region’s most famous labels, if not the country’s, Mission Estate is the oldest winery in New Zealand and the birthplace of New Zealand wine. Dine on the outdoor terrace as you sip on an award-winning wine.

CRAGGY RANGE

Under the escarpment of Te Mata Peak, the cellar door, located at Giants Winery in Havelock North, is a breath-taking setting in which to taste a selection of Craggy Range wines. It also offers boutique accommodation among the vines, with options including cottages, river lodges, and a luxury lodge.

TRINITY HILL 

One of the first wineries established in the famed terrôir of Gimblett Gravels, Trinity Hill produces exceptional full-bodied reds and single vineyard Chardonnays. Trinity Hill Cellar Door is open seven days, with an excellent selection of platters made of local Hawke’s Bay produce.

ELEPHANT HILL 

Proprietors Reydan and Roger Weiss first fell in love with the beauty of the setting of Te Awanga when visiting from Germany in 2001, they have since created a stunning coastal vineyard with a sustainable mindset, and it is a Sustainable Winegrowers of New Zealand accredited vineyard