Behind Marlborough, Hawke's Bay is the highest exporter of New Zealand wine. The region grows Sav Blanc but is known for its thicker-skinned varietals- specifically Chardonnay and Bordeaux blends. However with ten different sub-conditions in the region, many different types of grapes are grown albeit in smaller quantities.
Hawke's Bay is separated from the central North Island by a mountain range to the west while the ocean bounds the inlet to the east. Napier is the largest town in this area and is interesting, in that it was leveled by a massive earthquake in the 1930s and then rebuilt in the art deco style.
The entire area is known for its farm-to-table cuisine with Bistronomy being perhaps the most well known restaurant. However, even prior to Covid, Kiwi chefs who have worked in top establishments in New York and London have come here to combine their experience with local flair. Expect informal but fine dining in both the city and the cellar doors throughout the area.
Hawke's Bay is a beautiful area in which one may be quite content to enjoy their accommodations and take a few half-day tours in the area. Popular activities include those with a cultural focus like visiting a traditional Maori village or a guided architecture tour, golf, wildlife, hiking, and fly fishing