The picturesque village of Havelock North is located on the slopes of Te Mata Peak and enjoys stunning views across the plains to Hastings and Napier. Rich in history, many of the unique buildings date back to the 1800s, while parks and gardens add to the relaxed village feel.

The Provincial Government set up this small settlement back in 1860 and by the early 1900’s local architects had already created a number of unique buildings, which fortunately are still standing today. In addition, a programme of tree planting, as well as development of the town’s parks and gardens, has seen the village develop a distinctly lush feel that contrasts markedly with the rest of the Heretaunga Plains.

The largest park in Havelock North is the Te Mata Trust Park: 240 acres of beautiful landscape. From the park, you can follow a road to the summit of Te Mata Peak. The majestic ‘Sleeping Giant’ silhouette formed by the crags on the skyline provides a dramatic backdrop to the village.

Another lush parkland is Keirunga Gardens, the inspiration for which came from London's Kew Gardens. The gardens and the serenity of the peak domain are popular for picnicking, walking or simply relaxing, while the miniature railway and train provide entertainment.

Havelock North is the closest settlement to Cape Kidnappers, the largest mainland gannet colony in the world. Nearby are a number of beautiful secluded beaches, including Ocean Beach and Waimarama. For those who enjoy walking, Mohi Bush Reserve and Maraetotara Falls are also well worth a visit. Fishing for Rainbow Trout in the Tukituki River is a popular local pastime.

Sights & Destinations in Havelock North

Te Mata Peak

Drive to the top of Te Mata Peak for breathtaking views of the region and activities such as walking, mountain-biking and paragliding.

Cape Kidnappers

Cape Kidnappers is the largest mainland gannet colony in the world. Book a tour to see these beautiful seabirds up close.

Duart House

This beautiful restored historical estate in the heart of Havelock North is worth a visit. Built in 1882 for Allan McLean and family, Duart House is a beautiful example of a carefully restored colonial estate. The 3 acres of manicured gardens are always open to the public, while Duart House itself is open to the public on the first Sunday of each month.

Keirunga Gardens

Inspired by London's Kew Gardens, the gardens and the serenity of Te Mata Peak domain are popular for picnicking, walking or simply relaxing.

Activities in Havelock North

Wineries

Havelock North is situated in the heart of Hawkes Bay Wine Country. The region is blessed with lots of sunshine and low humidity, creating the ideal conditions for growing grapes. The climate has allowed many wineries to develop in the region. Since its first grapes were planted in the 1870s, Te Mata Estate has gained a strong international reputation for its wines. Other Havelock North wineries include Lombardi (famous for its wonderful dessert wine), Akarangi, Askerne, Craggy Range and Matariki.

Arts and crafts

Art lovers should visit one of the galleries situated in the village. Or grab an art trail guide and explore the studios of local artists. You can even try your hand at some silver jewellery making, including necklaces, earrings and brooches.

Arataki Honey

Visit Arataki Honey and watch thousands of bees making honey at the largest honey producer in the Southern Hemisphere. Taste nine different flavours of honey and be sure to pick up a pot for yourself!

Te Mata Cheese Factory

Set within lush green fields at the foothills of the majestic Te Mata Peak, the cheese factory is the perfect setting for the creation of stunning fresh, white-rinded and blue cheeses. Visit the factory and watch how the brie, feta and blue cheeses are hand-made on site.

Gannet tours

Gannet safaris allow visitors to get within a few metres of these majestic birds. Travel in air-conditioned four-wheel drive vehicles over the hill country of Cape Kidnappers Station and experience something unique in the world.

Golf

For keen golfers, no visit to Havelock North is complete without a visit to Cape Kidnappers Golf Club. Completed in 2004, Cape Kidnappers has been hailed as one of the great modern marvels in golf and is ranked the 41st best golf course in the world by Golf Magazine. The par 71 golf course offers spectacular scenery along an incredible course perched 500 feet above the ocean.

Paragliding

Launch from the spectacular cliffs of Te Mata Peak and take to the skies on a paragliding adventure.

Fishing

Fishing is a highly popular activity around Hawke’s Bay. Choose between small mountain streams or larger rivers, fishing for Brown and Rainbow Trout.