7 Top Hawke's Bay Must-Do's

Welcome to an oasis of R&R, wine, art deco and seaside radiance, where handsome 1930s-era buildings spill onto natty seaside proms and the razzle dazzle runs far. It would be wise to loosen a belt notch – even the cycle trails lead to restaurant doors and vineyards around here.

© AA Traveller 2021

1. MTG Hawke's Bay Museum

MTG Hawke’s Bay, Napier

A museum, theatre and gallery. As well as art collections, there’s an exhibition on the 1931 earthquake, short films and approximately 90,000 objects of interest. Free entry.

2. National Aquarium

The Penguin Park at The National Aquarium of New Zealand houses little blue penguins unable to return to the wild. Book a 45-minute feeding tour to hand-feed these curious cutesters.

3. Napier Art Deco Festival

Clear Your calendar, this is a bucket-list event if ever we saw one. Held every February, over five fabulous days, Napier’s streets erupt with scores of art deco events.

Art Deco Festival, Napier © Adobe Stock

4. Hastings Art Gallery

A small art gallery that leaves a big impression, with captivating exhibitions and year-round workshops for all ages.

5. Cape Kidnappers

Jagged white bluff slides into the Pacific Ocean; drive here in 35 minutes from Hastings or walk from Clifton Motor Camp via a 10km coastal walkway.

Gannets, Cape Kidnappers © Adobe Stock

6. Te Mata Peak

Te Mata Peak Park boasts seven top walking tracks, all of which are looped and include the summit track which leads to 360° views.

7. Waimārama Beach

Waimārama's long stretches of golden sandy beach are ideal for walking, jogging, swimming, surfing and fishing. It has good mobile phone coverage, a general store and seaside cafe. There is also a boat ramp and a variety of beach accommodation. Located 20 minutes' drive from Havelock North, past the spectacular Craggy Range winery.

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