Four Reasons to Visit Hawkes Bay This Summer

Christmas is almost here and for most of us the holiday season is a time to slow down and swap out the routine of normality for a little joy and relaxation. Spending quality moments with loved ones, indulging in some decent food and taking time out is important, as is finding a holiday destination that will allow you to do so. Activity rich, visually breathtaking and with great dining options for all taste buds, Hawkes Bay is an ideal location to tune out of monotony and into merriness this summer. At a cruisy five hour drive away from Auckland and with Jetstar now offering flights direct from Auckland to Napier getting there has never been so easy.

Here are four great reasons to visit Hawkes Bay this summer.

Mister D

All these guys care about is filling your belly and seeing you leave with a smile. Mister D make their own bread, pasta and pastries on the daily. Infamous for their ‘inject your own donuts’ these guys will satisfy any craving breakfast, lunch or dinner. Located in the heart of Napier with a rock 'n' roll aesthetic, the team at Mister D’s are so warming they make you feel right at home.  

Elephant Hill Winery

We mentioned above Hawkes Bay is visually breathtaking and we really were not kidding. The scenery surrounding Elephant Hill winery is remarkable with views of the beautiful vineyards and surrounding Te Awanga coast. The impressive estate, the elegant architecture and gracious vineyards make Elephant Hill not only a must see, but a must taste. The menu is of equal delight and hosts a wide variety of cleverly cohesive dishes that won’t actually leave you wanting more because you will be full… however an everlasting imprint will be embedded on your tongue. Ever so complimentary is the Elephant Hill wine which completes the dining experience. If beautiful vines make beautiful wine then Elephant Hill would be among the fairest of them all.   

Emporium Eatery and Bar

The Emporium Bar is an awesome dinner option. Friendly in demeanor, welcoming in culture and pleasing in aesthetics, we think the eatery and bar is a great place to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing, to go and catch up with friends or just grab a tasty dinner. Stocking the finest local wines, meats and cheeses, Emporium allows you to easily immerse yourself in local produce while simultaneously sitting down and satisfying your taste buds. We recommend the caramelized Spanish onion, tomato, feta, gourmet mushroom and herb aioli pizza. 

Bluff Hill

An inexpensive and fun activity, you can climb to the top of Bluff Hill via either car, mountain bike or foot. The experience will give you a great birds eye view of Hawkes Bay and the below Port of Napier. With a salty atmosphere and a mega view that could be mistaken for the end of the Earth, the climb can be an afternoon activity or a quick stop between destinations. With outstanding views towards the South Pacific Ocean as well as neighboring native forest and scrub-covered hillsides, the view is one that upholds New Zealand’s reputation for such exquisite countryside. 

Visit http://www.hawkesbaynz.com/index.php/see-do/adventure for more ideas or visit Jetstar to book low cost flights to Napier for your own escape this summer.