Te Mata Peak
A distinctive limestone ridge overlooking Havelock North, the Heretaunga Plains and the Pacific coast, reached by road or a network of walking tracks.
Quick Facts
- Region
- Hawke's Bay, North Island
- Best time
- Year-round; clearest views on calm days
- Entry fee
- Free
- Duration
- 1–2 hours
Overview
Te Mata Peak rises abruptly above Havelock North, its distinctive silhouette formed by tilted limestone strata pushed up by tectonic activity. In Māori legend, the peak's profile is said to be the sleeping form of the giant Te Mata, who died attempting to eat his way through the hills to prove his love.
A sealed summit road makes the peak one of the most accessible high viewpoints in the country, giving views across the Heretaunga Plains, Hawke's Bay's vineyards, and — on a clear day — as far as Mount Ruapehu and the Kaweka and Ruahine ranges.
Things To Do
- Summit drive — a sealed road runs all the way to the top, the easiest way to take in the view.
- Walking tracks — a network of trails of varying difficulty climb the peak from Te Mata Park below.
- Paragliding — the peak's updrafts make it a popular launch site for tandem paragliding flights.
- Mountain biking — several of the park's lower trails are open to mountain bikers.
- Sunset viewing — a popular time to visit, with the plains and coastline lit in evening light.
Getting There
Te Mata Peak is about 15 minutes' drive from Havelock North and 25 minutes from Napier. There's parking at the summit and at several points within Te Mata Park for those walking up.
| Location | Te Mata Park, Havelock North, Hawke's Bay |
|---|---|
| Opening Hours | Park and summit road open dawn to dusk daily |
| Entry Fee | Free |
| Duration | 1–2 hours |
| Accessibility | Summit accessible by car; walking tracks range from easy to steep |
Gallery
Nearby Attractions
Hawke's Bay Wine Trail
New Zealand's oldest wine region, visible spread across the plains below the peak.
Cape Kidnappers
One of the world's largest mainland gannet colonies, a short drive away.
Havelock North
A boutique village at the foot of the peak, known for cafes and galleries.