The twin cities of Napier and Hastings provide a hub from which many different industries
make the Hawke's Bay a very popular place to visit for both international and local visitors.
Supported by a Mediterranean climate and a varied landscape -
from dramatic cliff tops to fertile plains - the region provides
visitors with many interesting places to see and things to do.
Napier's art deco architecture was the result of having to rebuild
the city after a devastating earthquake in 1931. There is an Art
Deco Weekend, which is held every third weekend in February. The
city has a splendid promenade lined with Norfolk pines that looks
out over the Pacific Ocean. Napier is also home to the Hawke's
Bay Museum, which documents both Maori and European pioneers in
the district.
Adjacent to Napier is the more populous Hastings - fondly known
as the Fruit Bowl of New Zealand; however, it is quickly becoming
recognized as one of the key players in the region's wine industry.
The Cape Kidnappers Gannet Sanctuary is nearby, which has great
views from Te Mata Peak.
The Pacific Coast Highway works it way down from Auckland into Hawke's Bay; the Thermal Explorer Highway,
an inland touring route down from the north, finishes in Esk Valley, which has vineyards and hilltop views
of the Pacific Coast.
Climate
Hakwe's Bay is dry and sunny with mild winters. The average summer temperature is 23.5°C and the
average winter temperature is 14.5°C. Napier has an average of 2188 hrs of sunshine per year. The annual
rainfall is 800mm.
Best Way to Get Around
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HAWKES BAY
