MORNING

The first ingredient in this recipe can be found just off the Napier-Taupo Road, in the Kaweka Ranges. Mohaka Rafting offers full day and multi-day adventures on grade two, three and five whitewater rapids, however for this recipe a grade two or three trip is ideal. Admire the incredible scenery and taste test the rapids, narrow gorges and canyons and exciting cliff jumps. Pack a light lunch and eat on the riverside as you breathe in the remote Kaweka Forest Park. 

AFTERNOON

Mid-afternoon, head into Napier to pick up your next utensil – an e-bike, perfectly designed to discover the Hawke’s Bay Trails.

Listed as one of New Zealand’s official Great Rides, the Hawke’s Bay Trails boast more than 200km of flat, easy-riding cycle trails throughout the region. On any given day you can explore take in the expansive ocean views, stunning landscapes and iconic features along the way, including award-winning wineries, unique cafés, quaint country pubs and artisan outlets.

The Water Ride around Ahuriri Lagoon is a great option for taking in the beauty of this coastal city, as well as the immaculate limestone trails.

EVENING

Stay on your bike and head to Taradale for a classic Hawke’s Bay winery dinner. Choose between iconic wineries Mission Estate or Church Road, two of New Zealand’s oldest vineyards. Both wineries continue to churn out award-winning wines, while their restaurants serve up plate after plate of mouth-watering cuisine, made from the freshest local produce. 

MORNING

Shake off the dust from the night before and rise early to catch the first rays of sunshine as you head to Cape Kidnappers Golf Course.

Designed by legendary golf architect Tom Doak, the Cape Kidnappers par 71 golf course will challenge golfers of all skill levels. Completed in 2004, it is consistently named as one of the top 20 golf courses in the world and has been hailed as one of the great modern marvels in golf.

Built on a ridge-and-valley landscape and with stunning sea views, Cape Kidnappers Golf Course plays high above the ocean atop dramatic cliffs. With cliff-edge fairways perched 140 metres above sea level and surface that remains firm and fast, this course offers holes unlike anything else in the world.

LUNCH

Pause for a breath with lunch at Hygge at Clifton Bay. Named after a Danish word that invokes comfort and charm, Hygge has plenty of both.

Tucked into the nook of Cape Kidnappers in Clifton Bay and with heart-warming fare made from local, ethical and organic produce wherever possible, Hygge is your home away from home.

AFTERNOON

The final flourish in this Hawke’s Bay recipe is a trip to the Cape Kidnappers Gannets Colony, the world’s largest, most accessible mainland gannet colony.

Jump onboard with Gannet Safaris Overland’s 4x4 vehicles and travel across pristine coastline, working farmland, through native bush and New Zealand’s largest privately-owned nature reserve.

Or alternatively, travel with Gannet Beach Adventures on their iconic red tractors along Clifton Beach to the colony. Suitable for all ages and fitness levels, Gannet Beach Adventures is a four-hour adventure, along the rugged coastline from Clifton to Cape Kidnappers.