Napier & Hawke's Bay

This is the worlds largest and most accessible colony of gannets birds, in fact over 6,500 breeding pairs make their homes here. One remarkable fact about this fascinating bird species is that the first time the chick flies, at around 16 weeks, it immediately embark on a 1750 mile journey across the Tasman Sea to Australia, returning to Cape Kidnapper two or three years later.

From $44 USD per person

We rate this as one of the finest tours of its type available in New Zealand. For many years Brigid Ormond has worked with the local Maori people and as a strong supporter and advocate for local artists. As a result she offers a unique opportunity for you to meet with a range of interesting people to learn about the history and the culture of this region. On this private tour you will meet meet wonderful characters, hear their stories and have some fun, meet artists working in their studios and spend time with interesting Maori. You will also talk with wine specialists and sample special wines, meet food producers and taste delicious foods, explore stunning coastal scenery. This tour is crafted for each client to follow their interests and it will take you on a special journey to find the true essence of this beautiful country.

From $154 USD per person

In 1931 the city of Napier was almost completely destroyed by a devastating earthquake. An interesting historical aspect for American visitors is that after the earthquake city leaders visited Santa Barbara in California which had also been destroyed and then rebuilt after a terrible earthquake in 1925. As a result of their visit it was decided to rebuild Napier in the Spanish Mission style of Santa Barbara. However, although some examples of the Santa Barbara Spanish Mission style are to be found in Napier it was the Art Deco style of the 30's that eventually prevailed. A walking tour of the main buildings of this period is full of interest particularly for those interested in architecture.

This 1300 foot peak rises high above the hills of Havelock North, a small town a short distance from Napier. A drive up to its peak (or by way of a pleasant walking track) will give you stunning panoramic views across to the east coast and the slopes of Mt Ruapehu in the distance, the Ruahine Ranges and neighboring boutique vineyards.

If you plan to continue south after visiting Hawkes Bay you can join the route called The Classic New Zealand Wine Trail that runs from Napier, down the eastern flanks of the North Island to Wellington, finishing in the Marlborough wine growing region at the top of the South Island. En-route pass through the attractive wine growing region of Wairarapa. The scenery en-route is varied and in places spectacular.