Hawke's Bay is a region located on the eastern coast of New Zealand's North Island. It is named after Admiral Edward Hawke, a British navy officer. The region is known for its beautiful landscapes, warm climate and outstanding wines. Covering an area of 14,111 square kilometers, the region is home to around 165,000 people.
Hawke's Bay is one of the leading wine-producing regions in New Zealand with over 100 vineyards and 80 wineries, primarily known for producing award-winning Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon. The region also hosts the popular annual Wine Auction which attracts wine enthusiasts from around the world.
Along with wineries and vineyards, Hawke's Bay boasts art deco architecture, particularly in its major city, Napier. After a devastating earthquake in 1931, Napier was rebuilt in the Art Deco style and is now known as the Art Deco Capital. Each year, the city celebrates its unique architecture with the Napier Art Deco Festival.
Aside from wine and architecture, the region also offers a range of outdoor activities. With its sunny weather, visitors can enjoy beautiful beaches, hike in the mountains, explore the gushing waterfalls, and bicycle along the Hawke’s Bay Trails. It is also a major wildlife spot with the gannet colony at Cape Kidnappers being one of the key attractions.
The region’s economy is not solely reliant on tourism but also thrives on agriculture, horticulture, and forestry. The fertile plains and the warm, dry climate of the bay make it perfect for growing not only grapes but also apples, pears, and stone fruit. The region also has a thriving food scene with numerous restaurants and cafes offering fresh, local produce and seafood.
