The long hot summers and mild winters of the Hastings district, provide the perfect stimulant for a wide variety of delicious fresh produce. Orchards are abundant and the climate is also perfect for grape growing. The local wine industry continues to grow and each February the region celebrates with Harvest Hawke’s Bay, the country’s biggest and brightest food and wine festival. Hastings boasts some of the region’s top wineries including Te Mata Estate and Craggy Range, where wine tasting and restaurant dining can be enjoyed.
In Havelock North you will find cafes and several art galleries and during the Summer months the Saturday morning market held at Black Barn Vineyards, for all your fresh food delights. A feature looming above the hills of Havelock North is Te Mata Peak, which rises 399 metres above sea level. The peak dominates the fertile plains and provides panoramic views across to Mahia, the ski slopes of Mt Ruapehu and out towards the Ruahine Ranges. Te Mata Peak is easily accessible and offers well graded walking tracks and casual and fine dining at the Peak Restaurant.