We get it. Sometimes there's just too many places to explore, so one day in Hawke's Bay is all you have time for. Sample this Hawke's Bay taster, and there's no doubt in our minds you'll be back to experience more of what's on offer in New Zealand's Food and Wine Country.

This itinerary is based on a midday arrival and a midday departure 24 hours later. But you can adjust to suit your own timings.

Highlights

  • Art Deco discovery
  • Food and wine 
  • Te Mata Peak

However you choose to arrive into Hawke's Bay, take time to smell the roses on the journey here. Make a stop or two, grab a coffee and admire the views - particularly if you're arriving from the south via Central Hawke's Bay, or from the northeast through Wairoa District.

Midday

Lunch in Napier - New Zealand's Art Deco capital - comes in all shapes and sizes, to suit every budget. Choose from cool cafes, hearty gastro pubs, and delicious restaurants. Walk off your lunch with a stroll around the CBD with its boutique shops, or head over to the picturesque seaside village of Ahuriri - just a short drive away.

Afternoon

With your belly a little more full and your wallet a little more empty, make your way to the Art Deco Centre for the 2pm guided walk of the city's incredible art deco architecture. This walk is roughly 1 1/2 to 2 hours long (depending on the season) and will give you an insight into the origins of Napier's architectural vibe as a 1930s film set.

After you've had your Art Deco fix, give yourself another hour or so in and around the CBD. Options could include some more shopping, a visit to MTG Hawke's Bay (Museum Theatre Gallery) to catch the latest exhibition, a stroll along the iconic Marine Parade, or perhaps check out some of the city's SeaWalls street murals.

Evening

There's simply no argument - a Hawke's Bay visit is only complete after visiting at least one of our 35+ cellar doors during your stay. Given time is at a premium during this 24-hour flying visit, we suggest visiting a winery restaurant for a delicious dinner and cellar door combo.

When your day is finally done, the options to rest your head are impressively broad, ranging from modern hotels to luxury retreats, and plenty more

Highlights

2 Art Deco guided walk

Discover the history behind Napier's stunning Art Deco architecture, which rose from the ashes of the devastating 1931 earthquake

3 Marine Parade

Napier’s Marine Parade is a thriving playground for locals and visitors alike

4 SeaWalls: Artists for Oceans

A network of nearly 50 large format street murals around Napier, highlighting the plight of the world's oceans

So many things to do, so little time. As appealing as a sleep in may be, an early start is called for to make the most of your final few hours in Hawke's Bay.

Day break

Arguably Hawke's Bay's most iconic landmark, Te Mata Peak towers over the quaint village of Havelock North and offers spectacular 360 views across much of the region. Get up super early for sunrise, or regular early for a still-stunning experience.

Morning

Find a brunch spot in Havelock North to refuel after your ascent of Te Mata Peak. If you're here for the weekend, brunch at one of the many farmers' markets is also a great option. 

If time permits, and we really hope it does, a quick jaunt on the easy-riding Hawke's Bay Trails is the perfect finish to your 1-day Hawke's Baycation. There's several bike hire businesses to choose from, all perfectly located near to the most popular sections of the trails.

Midday

It's been a blast. We can't wait to see you back in Hawke's Bay. Maybe you can stay a little longer next time, and experience more of what our region has to offer! Travel safely.

Highlights

1 Te Mata Peak

Walk, bike or drive to the summit of Te Mata Peak for stunning views across the region

2 Farmers and growers markets

Ambling around one of Hawke’s Bay's renowned markets is the perfect way to spend a morning. 

3 Hawke's Bay Trails

Hire a bike and head out to see the sights on the easy-riding Hawke's Bay Trails