Hawke's Bay Wine Trail
New Zealand's second-largest and oldest wine region, planted since the 1850s, known for the Gimblett Gravels sub-region's Bordeaux-style reds.
Quick Facts
- Region
- Hawke's Bay, North Island
- Best time
- Year-round; harvest season Feb – Apr
- Entry fee
- Free; tastings typically $10–$25
- Duration
- Half day – full day
Overview
Hawke's Bay has been growing grapes since French Marist missionaries first planted vines near Napier in the 1850s, making it New Zealand's oldest wine region. Its warm, dry climate and range of soil types — most notably the free-draining Gimblett Gravels, an old riverbed — have made it the country's leading producer of Bordeaux-style reds (Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot) as well as excellent Chardonnay and Syrah.
More than 70 wineries operate across the region, from large established producers to small boutique cellar doors, many within easy reach of Napier and Hastings and increasingly connected by dedicated cycle trails.
Things To Do
- Cellar door tastings — sample the region's reds, Chardonnay and Syrah direct from the producer.
- Gimblett Gravels — visit wineries on this distinctive gravel sub-region, prized for red wine.
- Wine and food trails — several wineries pair tastings with a restaurant or platter menu.
- Cycle the wine trails — dedicated cycling paths link many Hawke's Bay wineries.
- Harvest season visits — February to April, when the region's vineyards are most active.
Getting There
Most wineries are within a 20–30 minute drive of Napier or Hastings. Self-driving, guided wine tours and cycling are all common ways to get around; note that Hawke's Bay Airport has direct flights from Auckland and Wellington.
| Location | Hawke's Bay, centred on Napier and Hastings |
|---|---|
| Opening Hours | Cellar doors typically open 10:00am – 5:00pm; varies by producer |
| Entry Fee | Free to visit; tastings typically NZD $10–$25 |
| Duration | Half day – full day |
| Accessibility | Varies by winery; most cellar doors are ground-level and accessible |
Gallery
Nearby Attractions
Te Mata Peak
A limestone peak with sweeping views over the wine region and Hawke's Bay coastline.
Cape Kidnappers
One of the world's largest mainland gannet colonies, a short drive away.
Napier
The Art Deco capital of the world, rebuilt after the 1931 earthquake.