Hawkes Bay

Wine Country

A mere 1½ hour drive from Taupo over the ranges that to a Mediterranean climate; Hawkes Bay has long hot summers as well as clear blue skies in the middle of winter. Hawkes Bay is one of the sunniest regions of New Zealand. Sheltered by ranges to the west the Hawkes Bay landscape opens up to reveal rolling hills and fertile plains. The perfect environment for orchards and, of course, internationally acclaimed wineries.

The city of Hastings and the township of Havelock North are nestled among the orchards and vines. The Art Deco City of Napier sits by the glistening waters of the Pacific - paradise!

With an annual average of 2200, sunshine hours are high, while rainfall and humidity are low. In fact, Hawkes Bay has the second highest sunshine hours and the lowest rainfall in the North Island. Whatever time of the year you visit, you're pretty much guaranteed to have sunny, dry weather - perfect for exploring this stunning region.

Cape Kidnappers marks the southern-most point of the bay. The cape is a short drive out of any of Napier, Hastings or Havelock North, and a walk along the coast under its distinct rugged cliffs, an excursion to see the world's largest mainland Gannet colony, or teeing off at one of the world’s top 50 golf courses makes for a great day trip.