Spend the long weekend in Napier and Havelock North, just under a half an hour drive from each other, with lots to see and do.

Things to do in Napier

Full of beautifully preserved 1930s architecture and restored art deco buildings, Napier is the perfect base to explore the wider Hawke’s Bay region. 

The city was rebuilt after the devastating 1931 earthquake in the style of the times - Art Deco. Relive the era of jazz, boaters and beads at the annual Art Deco Festival(opens in new window) or take a guided tour(opens in new window) of the spectacular architecture in a vintage car.

With over 100 vineyards and vast amounts of grapes to taste, Hawke’s Bay is known for some of New Zealand’s leading wine trails. Spend the day sampling the locally grown Pinot Gris and Syrah. 

Or explore the exciting day to day activities of the National Aquarium of New Zealand.(opens in new window) Meet the cheeky Little Penguins, witness sharks and stingrays glide through the water and see NZ icons, the Kiwi and Tuatara.

Where to stay in Napier

From luxurious lodges, seaside hotels and family-friendly accommodation, Napier offers a diverse range of accommodation options for your next getaway. 

Choose from luxury accommodation, such as Breckenridge Lodge(opens in new window) and Kiwiesque Vineyard accommodation(opens in new window). To hotels such as the Scenic Hotel Te Pania(opens in new window) and Quest Napier.(opens in new window) Or for more budget-friendly options, check out the Napier Beach Top 10 Holiday Park(opens in new window) or Kennedy Park Resort(opens in new window).

What to eat in Napier

Known for its abundance of wineries and pristine Art Deco culture, Napier's vibrant restaurant scene has no shortage of places to dine out. 

Wine and dine in true style at the elegant Mission Estate(opens in new window) vineyard. With lush views, world-class cuisine and gorgeous wine, the Mission Restaurant(opens in new window) is one of Napiers most outstanding venues.

Treat yourself to a degustation only dining experience at Pacifica Restaurant(opens in new window). With the menu changing daily, owner and chef Jeremy Rameka is focused on bringing forward old flavours, the stuff of childhood memories.

Located in the iconic Art Deco Mason Hotel is the Emporium Eatery & Bar.(opens in new window) The all-day eatery crafts contemporary seasonal menus to suit the time of the day and utilise fresh, local ingredients. Once you've finished eating, grab a drink from the impressive collection in the cocktail lounge.

Things to do in Havelock North

Just a 20-minute drive from Napier, you'll find the quirky Havelock North. Full of natural landscapes and intimate vineyard experiences nearby, it's the perfect weekend getaway spot for couples or a group of friends.

Stroll through the village and explore the variety of boutique shops, cafés, restaurants and specialty food stores. It's the perfect base to go vineyard hopping just minutes from some of the region's best-known wineries and restaurants.

Dubbed the 'most instagramable vineyard in the world', Craggy Range(opens in new window) is located beneath the gaze of Te Mata Peak. Embark on a cellar door experience with relaxed and intimate tastings, then dine at the onsite restaurant that offers fresh, local and seasonal produce.

South of Havelock North is Te Mata Peak, which stands nearly 400 metres above sea level. The peak is open from dawn to sunset throughout the year. Well-maintained walking and mountain bike tracks provide access to the surrounding forest areas, including the stunning Redwoods forest – a grove of towering California redwoods.

Where to stay in Havelock North

From spectacular mountain peak views to the quirky village atmosphere, Havelock North is the perfect weekend escape for couples or a group of friends. Find accommodation to fit your budget, including luxury retreats and B&B's, Hotels and Motels.

Spend the night at the cosy Harvest Lodge Motel(opens in new window). Or, for a luxurious getaway, stay in one of 16 luxury retreats at Black Barn Retreats(opens in new window). With stunning views of Te Mata Peit'sit's an escape to remember.

Where to eat in Havelock North

Eat and drink like a local at the many unique eateries in the area.

Known for its iconic pink exterior, Pipi's Café(opens in new window) is an Italian experience that will leave you delighted. Choose from one of the tasty pizzas, pair it with a glasses of wine and make sure to save room for the chocolate cheesecake. 

At Deliciosa(opens in new window), the menu's change seasonally to feature the finest local produce and wine set in a relaxed, 'lazy village vibe' atmosphere. 

With a sophisticated and modern atmosphere, Malo(opens in new window) offers a fresh approach to the Hawke's Bay food and wine scene. With a divine menu & an exquisite cocktail list, Malo is the perfect place to dine out for breakfast right through to dinner.