Hawke’s Bay is New Zealand’s leading producer of red wines and the second largest wine region in the country behind Marlborough. Located on the North Island 360km (223 miles) South of Auckland, the regions 75 wineries provide exellent vacation stops as the natural beauty of the scenery combined with the award winning restaurants and lodging, makes this an ideal wine tourism vacation spot. The majority of New Zealand’s red wines come from this region, including Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah while the region’s warm maritime climate produces New Zealand’s richest and most complex Chardonnays.

The region is full of scenic mountain ranges, rivers, vineyards and orchards, coastal hideaways and lush rolling farmland, plus a pleasing mix of tiny townships and two vibrant cities (Hastings and Napier).

My wife and I visited Hawkes Bay in 2007 and were so inspired by the experience that we considered moving to New Zealand. The incredible friendliness of the people and the exquisite beauty of the landscape is truly breathtaking. The restaurant and lodging options were formidible and the ease of travel within the country make New Zealand an ideal vacation spot. We spent eight days on the North Island, three of which were spent in Hawke’s Bay and it was painful to return to the airport.

The website “Wine of Hawkes Bay,” rightfully brags about Hawke’s Bay Wine Country’s jaw-droppingly beautiful landscape, thriving artistic community, award-winning wines, gourmet experiences, and rich cultural heritage. You can taste your way through the region and meet the local personalities behind their creations at the Farmers’ Markets, at the wineries or on the mouth-watering Food and Wine Trails, as well as at a great variety of restaurants, cafes and bars to suit all tastes.
 
Hawke’s Bay’s Tourism Website  provides additional information on the Food & Wine options throughout the region.

Hawke’s Bay seldom stops celebrating. Food and wine is a central theme, and annual open-air concerts and harvest festivals at the wineries draw international acts. Art Deco weekend is internationally acclaimed along with other 1930s-inspired events throughout the year, the region’s rural roots come through in a thriving racing tradition, and Horse of the Year has made Hastings home.

Each January, there is an Annual Harvest festival called “Hawke’s Bay Wine and Food Festival“. Event manager Carol-Ann Stubbs is quoted saying, “This is your ultimate gastronomic experience with true Hawke’s Bay festival atmosphere.” The event includes over 40 of the top Hawke’s Bay wineries and boutique food producers, and a selection of sensational entertainers.