Hawke's Bay Adventure

Welcome to your Hawke’s Bay getaway here in the North Island. Join your group and leader at 10 am at a centrally located meeting place in Napier, rebuilt as an Art Deco haven after an earthquake in the 1930s. After a welcome meeting, when your leader will give you an overview of the upcoming itinerary, enjoy a special insight into the local architecture with an exclusive tour that lets you discover the story behind, and the exterior and some interiors, of a selection of stunning buildings not usually accessible to the public. After you’ve worked up an appetite, meet a third generation New Zealand winemaker – with over 40 years’ experience in the local wine industry – for an exclusive Hawke’s Bay food and wine experience. Make the most of their knowledge and relationships with the winemakers as you enjoy a two-course lunch at a nearby winery, before a wine appreciation session that will get your senses working. Taste plenty of Hawke’s Bay produce, like honey, figs, mushrooms and cheese, as you make your way through the vines and orchards, and on to Te Mata Peak, where you’ll drink in the views – and a few memorable vintages too. Tonight, your host will suggest a local restaurant for dinner.

Saddle up after breakfast this morning for a ride north of Napier to an area that was mostly inland sea before the Napier earthquake of 1931. Back in the time of Captain Cook his ship found shelter in the estuary here, and you’ll cycle through the vibrant suburb of Ahuriri and the peaceful countryside, past landmarks that tell the story of the area’s culture and history, and enjoy Pacific Ocean views. The Ahuriri Estuary (Te Whanganui a Orotu) is the remains of an extensive pre-earthquake lagoon, home to endangered wetland wildlife, native and migratory birds and a nursery for ocean-going fish. The wider estuary area contains a wildlife sanctuary in the wetlands, recreational pond area, cycle pathways and farmland. Cycle back to Napier, where you have the rest of the day free to explore the town.

This morning after breakfast head south to Waimarama for a chance to get to know the tribal history and traditions of the area with a local Maori guide. Waimarama beach was one of the stopping points of the great migratory canoe Takitimu in Maori tradition, and you’ll see why and where the Maori stayed, establishing the Hakikino fortress in the nearby hills. Learn more about tribal history and traditions, and drop into a native plant nursery and conservation area to understand how the Maori here are working to protect, restore, and reserve areas of remaining bushland. Afterwards, head south to your accommodation near Elsthorpe for the next two days, an eco-lodge designed to connect you back to the land. Stop along the way for a drink and a bite to eat at a tavern, a community hub near the Tuki Tuki river where you can mingle with the locals and the resident fox terriers, getting a real slice of local life. Then head on to the lodge, which overlooks a 40-hectare lake, and soak in the scenery.

Your accommodation is focused on not just sustainability, but regenerating the land while farming. After breakfast this morning – made with fresh produce straight from the property – you’ll take a tour of the farm and find out how the owners’ introduction of silvopasture has improved the health of the soil, the animals and biodiversity, and how the farm strives for a positive impact on the land and surrounding community. Follow the farmer as pigs are fed, eggs collected, cows milked and livestock shifted. If you’re feeling in the agricultural mood, then there are a heap of other farm jobs you can observe or lend a hand to. Afterwards you’re free to make the most of the farm’s 1500 acres – mountain biking, kayaking or trout fishing in the nearby Tuki Tuki river are just some of the ways to enjoy this beautiful piece of countryside. This evening join your group and celebrate the end of your Hawke’s Bay adventure with a final dinner that makes the most of the farm’s produce.

Savour your final farm fresh breakfast before you return to Napier, where your Hawke’s Bay adventure comes to an end.