Family-Friendly Adventures in !

Hawke"s Bay

Why Visit?

Day 1: Explore Napier

Start your adventure in Napier, known for its stunning Art Deco architecture. A guided walking tour from the Art Deco Trust is perfect for soaking in the city"s history and unique buildings, like the National Tobacco Company Building. After lunch, head to the Marine Parade to visit the National Aquarium of New Zealand. Here, families can enjoy close encounters with native and exotic marine life. Don"t miss the Kiwi House to glimpse New Zealand"s iconic bird.

Day 2: Te Mata Peak and Hastings

Drive about 30 minutes south to Havelock North and visit Te Mata Peak. You can either hike or drive to the summit for breathtaking panoramic views of Hawke’s Bay. Next, continue to Hastings, where you can have lunch at a family-friendly restaurant. Spend the afternoon at Splash Planet, a fun water park great for kids and adults alike.

Day 3: Cape Kidnappers

Book a tour to Cape Kidnappers to see the world’s largest mainland gannet colony. The overland tour in tractortrailers is a unique experience and a great way to learn about these fascinating birds and their natural habitat. Ensure you make reservations ahead of time as tours can fill up fast.

Day 4: Vineyard Tour & Cycling

Although Hawke’s Bay is famous for its wineries, many offer more than just wine tasting. Mission Estate, the oldest winery in New Zealand, has sprawling gardens and a restaurant with menus suitable for children. Rent bikes and explore the wineries and the scenery of Hawke’s Bay Trails, which offer paths suitable for all ages.

Each of these destinations offers a slice of what makes Hawke’s Bay a special place for a family holiday, blending educational experiences with plenty of fun.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Te Mata Peak

Why Visit?

Embark on a family adventure to Te Mata Peak, one of New Zealand’s stunning natural treasures, offering breathtaking views and a rich tapestry of history and legend. Located near Havelock North, it is easily accessible by car, just a 25-minute scenic drive from Hastings in the heart of Hawke"s Bay.

Begin your visit at the Te Mata Peak Park, where ample parking is available. From here, choose your adventure based on your family’s interests and fitness levels. For an easy, leisurely experience suitable for all ages, take the accessible Te Mata Peak Road to the summit. As you drive, stop at various lookout points to snap photos and soak in the vistas of the verdant landscape and rugged coastlines.

For families enjoying a bit of activity, several walking tracks ranging from 30 minutes to 2 hours are available. The popular Big Redwoods Track (1.5 hours return) is a great choice, winding through a forest of Californian Redwoods planted in the 1920s. Here, children can marvel at the towering trees and play hide-and-seek amongst the giants.

At the summit, 399 meters above sea level, take in the 360-degree panorama that stretches across the plains to the peak of Mount Ruapehu. Engage the kids with the legend of the sleeping giant, Te Mata O Rongokako, a Maori chief who fell in love with the daughter of a rival tribe’s chieftain, shaping the landscape through his endeavors to win her heart.

Wrap up your visit with a picnic at one of the designated areas, or if you prefer, the nearby Havelock North village offers charming cafes and eateries for a refreshing end to your day. Don"t forget to stop by the visitor center to pick up educational brochures and unique souvenirs, ensuring your family takes home both memories and mementos of this magical place.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.