Napier/Hawke's Bay
The
Hawke's Bay region encompasses the area around Hawke's Bay on the East
Coast of the North Island.
Hawke’s Bay is loved for its sunny climate, fabulous beaches, sheltered
coastal plains and long-established vineyards. It is also one of the country's
largest pip fruit growing areas. Napier, the main city of the region,
has one of the largest concentrations of Art Deco buildings in the world.
It was razed by earthquake and fire in 1931, and rebuilt in the art deco
style which was fashionable at the time. The Art Deco Walk is a permanent
attraction, and each February there is the Brebner Print Art Deco Weekend,
a not-too-serious celebration of the art deco style.
The Hawke's Bay vineyards are all within a short distance of Napier and
Hastings, the other city in the region. More than 30 vineyards are open
to the public for wine tasting. Many also operate cafes and restaurants
in both indoor and outdoor settings. The region is especially known for
its fine Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon varieties.
Another unique attraction is the gannet colony on the very tip of Cape
Kidnappers - believed to be one of only two mainland gannet colonies in
the world. Gannets are large sea birds with long, pointed wings and golden-yellow
heads. Most spectacular is their method of fishing, when whole flocks
suddenly dive straight into the sea from a great height, at speeds of
up to 145km/h.
You can also find plenty of adventure in Hawke’s Bay - rafting on
the Mohaka River, horse trekking, hunting and trout fishing.