Located in the heart of the Hawke’s Bay fruit bowl, Hastings is a commercial hub for the region. The towering backdrop of Te Mata Peak, poised dramatically alongside the Heretaunga Plains, forms a scenic backdrop.

Like Napier, Hastings was devastated by the 1931 earthquake and retains its Art Deco charm. Hastings is also well known for the Spanish Mission buildings that emerged in the reconstruction – much of this interesting architecture still remains today.

Wine-tasting tours are a popular activity for those visiting Hastings. Fine foods complement fine wine and the region has plenty of both. Visit Pernel Fruitworld and enjoy fruit tasting from the orchards or visit Rush Munro’s, New Zealand’s oldest ice-cream maker! The nearby towns and villages also produce cheese, hand-made chocolates and honey. There are also great farmers markets where you can pick up locally grown organic delights, from vegetables and fruit to coffee, jams and chutneys.

Hastings is a five-minute drive from Havelock North and about 20 minutes from Napier.

Sights & Destinations in Hastings

Te Mata Peak

To local Maori, Te Mata Peak is the sleeping giant, Te Mata O Rongotaha. Viewed from the fields near Havelock North, it appears as a giant lying on his back with his head to the right. A drive to the top of Te Mata Peak is a great way to view the surrounding landscape. Enjoy walking, mountain-biking and even paragliding from the summit.

Cape Kidnappers

Cape Kidnappers is home to the largest mainland gannet colony in the world. These large and handsome seabirds are unafraid of humans – book a guided tour and you can get right up close to the birds.

Activities in Hastings

Arts and culture

After wandering the streets to admire the Art Deco and Spanish Mission architecture, head along to the Hawke’s Bay Opera House. Dating back to 1910, the Opera House survived the 1931 earthquake and has recently undergone a multi-million dollar refurbishment, with the addition of a modern plaza and foyer. Also check out the Westerman’s Building and the Hawke’s Bay Exhibition Centre, or book yourself on a Spanish Mission Hastings walking tour.

Swimming

Splash Planet is one of Hawke’s Bay’s top family attractions. The large water park provides a fun day out for the family with swimming pools, slides and rides, including the Never Ending River, Sky Castle Screamer, Bumper Boats and the Pirate Ship. Check out the rail journey, racing cars, jungle jeeps, mini-golf, café and shop. Splash Planet is closed during winter months.

Wineries

Exploring a selection of the region’s many wineries is a must-do, whether you book a wine tour or explore independently by car or bicycle.

Air activities

Take to the skies and see the region from a bird’s eye view. From the spectacular cliffs of Te Mata Peak you can learn to paraglide, enjoy a tandem flight or try hang-gliding. Early morning hot air balloon flights are popular, providing wonderful views of the spectacular wine region.

Fishing

Whether you are an expert or a novice, fishing is a highly popular activity around Hawke’s Bay. Choose between small mountain streams or larger rivers, fishing for Brown and Rainbow Trout.

Pernel Fruitworld

Enjoy a guided orchard tour and see a wide selection of fruits on the trees, including apples, pears, apricots, plums, peaches and nectarines (there are 85 varieties of fruit!). Take part in fruit tasting and visit the animal farm where you can hand feed the animals.

Walking and hiking

From guided tours to independent walks, there are plenty of areas to explore by foot around Hastings. Enjoy native bush walks, coastal or rural walks. Guided walks provide the bonus of an interesting commentary so you can learn about the local history. Experience views of the stunning Ruahine and Kaweka ranges and the Ngaruroro River.