Hawke's Bay

The basics

The semicircular Hawke’s Bay is approximately 62 miles (100 kilometers) long, from the Mahia Peninsula in the north to Cape Kidnappers in the south. Five major rivers flow into the bay, making the region very fertile. Hawke’s Bay is known internationally for its wine, so lovers of good food and drink will enjoy touring vineyards. The city of Napier was destroyed by an earthquake in 1931, and was rebuilt at the height of the art deco phase in New Zealand. Architecture, art, and design enthusiasts will love touring the stylish city. 

Wine plays a leading role in many tours of Hawke’s Bay. Hire a bike and set off on a self-guided tour, or opt for a more relaxed experience with a tour that includes several wineries and lunch with a view.

Things to know before you go

• There is no international airport in Hawke’s Bay, and both Auckland and Wellington are several hours’ drive away. Hawke’s Bay is best visited if you aren’t in a hurry.
• Hawke’s Bay is home to a hill with the longest place name in the world: Taumatawhakatangihangakoauauotamateaturipukakapikimaungahoronukupokaiwhenuakita-natahu—or or Taumata for short. There’s not really much to see there, though.
• Hawke’s Bay is one of the most earthquake-prone areas of New Zealand. Be aware of how to respond if you do feel a quake.

How to get there

By road, Napier is about five hours from Auckland, four hours from Wellington, three from Rotorua, and two from Taupo. Domestic flights from Auckland or Wellington are the quickest way to get there. Otherwise, hire a car or take a long-distance InterCity bus. Self-driving from any of the closest cities is the best option if you’re not in a hurry, as there are many things to see en route.

When to get there

Travelers interested in arts and design should try to visit during the annual Art Deco Festival, usually held over a few days in February. Otherwise, there’s not really a bad time to visit as it’s one of New Zealand’s sunniest areas, with hot summers and cool winters.

Visit Gisborne

Travelers seeking out-of-the-way destinations in New Zealand should check out Gisborne on the way to or from Hawke’s Bay. This small city is just north of Hawke’s Bay, in the northern part of Poverty Bay. It’s famous for its impressive surf beaches, and is also a stronghold of Māori culture in New Zealand, with around half the population being Māori.