Three of the most elegant experiences in New Zealand’s Hawke’s Bay

The luscious vines of Hawke’s Bay, NZ Photo: Getty
The luscious vines of Hawke’s Bay, NZ Photo: Getty

This article is brought to you by Kim Crawford Wines however, all content has been curated by the Yahoo Lifestyle team at our editorial discretion.

Lush wine, rolling sun-kissed hills and fab art deco architecture make Hawke’s Bay a chic must-visit stop in the corner of New Zealand.

The region is ripe with produce fresh from the farmers’ markets, keeping local chefs inspired to create paddock-to-plate pieces of art. Good food paired with world-renowned wine and an unforgettable lineup of beauty indulgences, there’s no limit to the luxury of Hawke’s Bay. Here’s how to make the most of the destination in three easy steps …

The perfect Hawke’s Bay picnic. Photo: Kim Crawford Wine
The perfect Hawke’s Bay picnic. Photo: Kim Crawford Wine

1. One-of-a-kind wine experience
Glorious sunshine and gentle terrain make Hawke’s Bay ideal for a bike picnic ride. Rent a California-style cruiser bicycle for a relaxed excursion through the vineyards, clifftops, foreshores and farmland.

Build your picnic basket with delectable salads and snacks from MYLK Food Store in Hastings or savoury pastries from Holly Bacon (the pulled pork sausage rolls are beloved by locals). Head to Go to OM Goodness Specialty Breads for nourishing full-grain soda bread made with flour fresh from their traditional Austrian stone mill.

Your Hawke’s Bay transport. Photo: Coastal Wine Cycles Instagram
Your Hawke’s Bay transport. Photo: Coastal Wine Cycles Instagram

No picnic is complete without an exciting wine from the region you’re pedaling on! Pack a bottle of Kim Crawford Rosè, a magnetic drop made from local grapes. Soft and luscious on the palate, this rosè is a nice sipper for taking in views of the iconic Te Mata Peak and Cape Kidnappers. A backdrop to take your breath away and restore it in the same instant.

The award-winning Cape South. Photo: Cape South Holistic Health and Wellness
The award-winning Cape South. Photo: Cape South Holistic Health and Wellness

2. Relax and replenish
Once you’ve had enough of exploring the head-turning scenery, ramp up the detoxification with a signature facial, scrub and massage at Cape South Holistic Wealth and Wellness. Ranked by the Guardian as #1 in the Five Best Antipodean retreats, the country escape features a graciously designed French-colonial homestead, pool, established gardens and wellness treatments to ensure you leave relaxed and rejuvenated.

Interior heaven. Photo: The Farm at Cape Kidnappers
Interior heaven. Photo: The Farm at Cape Kidnappers

The Farm at Cape Kidnappers is the jewel of Hawke’s Bay, offering luxurious suites perched on the cliffside for 180-degree sea views of the persistent horizon.

The ultimate place to escape with a prestigious spa on-site, don’t miss out on their Healing Manuka Honey Facial. Photo: The Farm Cape Kidnappers.
The ultimate place to escape with a prestigious spa on-site, don’t miss out on their Healing Manuka Honey Facial. Photo: The Farm Cape Kidnappers.

3. Retreat to eat
Some say Hawke’s Bay is one of New Zealand’s top three regions when it comes to restaurants. They wouldn’t be wrong. Take advantage at the many world-class food experiences at the region’s 72 wineries or head to towns Napier or Hastings which are quickly gaining a reputation among foodie circles. Bistronomy is all about fun, fresh, foraged flavors including the Kahawai and kale ‘chowder’ with mousse, oyster, mussel, confit lemon and daikon ferment. Married best with Kim Crawford Rosè for the ultimate dining satisfaction.

Foraged food on offer at Bistonomy. Photo: @bistronomyhb Instagram
Foraged food on offer at Bistonomy. Photo: @bistronomyhb Instagram

Pacifica in Napia is also a winner with the menu changing daily dependant on the catch of the day. Just another delicious day in Hawke’s Bay.

Head to your nearest liquor store to treat yourself to Kim Crawford Rosé. Available at BWS, Liquorland, First Choice and IGA Victoria.