Hawkes Bay, located south of Gisborne on New Zealand’s North Island, is one of the country’s leading wine and food tourism destination. It is also a visually impressive region: in 1931, the cities of Napier and Hastings were destroyed by an earthquake, and were subsequently rebuilt in the art deco and Spanish mission styles. Today, many visitors today come to the area to admire its architectural wonders and colorful buildings.
When it comes to wines, Hawkes Bay is New Zealand’s second largest wine growing region and one of its oldest. Chardonnay is the most widely planted grape variety, but wines from red grape varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Syrah are also produced in the area.
On this tailor-made tour, you will enjoy a guided cycle excursion through the Hawke's Bay wine region. From Clifton, near the base of the cliffs of Cape Kidnappers, you will follow the coast for approximately 7kms through the quaint settlements of Te Awanga and Haumoana. Along the way, wine tasting will be available at some renowned wineries, like Church Road, Clearview Estate and Elephant Hill.
On reaching Haumoana, you will turn inland and follow the Tuki Tuki River trail, with scenic views over orchards, vineyards and farmland, to the bustling village of Havelock North. A visit to the Origin Earth Cheese Factory and Tasting Room is a highlight for food lovers before continuing the short distance to Te Mata Estate winery. The trail ends at Black Barn Vineyard where you can browse the ‘We Love Local’ gourmet food store, taste the wines, and admire the amphitheatre and market site which make Black Barn unique.
Highlights
- Guided bike tour through the Hawke's Bay wine region
- Wine tasting at three renowned wineries
- Visit to the Origin Earth Cheese Factory and Tasting Room
