Things To Do
in Havelock North
Havelock North is a leafy village set on the foothills of Hawke's Bay, just inland from Napier. It blends a relaxed rural vibe with polished cafes, boutique shops, and a thriving wine scene. The area is renowned for its scenic viewpoints, especially Te Mata Peak, and for easily accessing nearby beaches and wineries.
With family-friendly parks, farm-to-table dining, and a slow-paced rhythm, it's an ideal base for exploring Hawke's Bay at a comfortable, scenic pace.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Havelock North and settle into your accommodation. Enjoy the picturesque surroundings and catch your first glimpse of the rolling hills and vineyards. Take a leisurely stroll through the charming village center to familiarize yourself with the local atmosphere.
Indulge in a delicious lunch at one of the local cafes, sampling fresh regional produce and artisan dishes. Afterward, explore the iconic Te Mata Peak, where you can hike to the summit for stunning panoramic views. This is a great place to take photos and appreciate the natural beauty of Hawke's Bay.
Finish your day with a visit to a local winery for a tasting session. Savor a range of exquisite wines, paired with gourmet platters featuring local cheeses and meats. Return to your accommodation for a peaceful night's sleep, excited for the adventures ahead.
Start your day with a visit to the Havelock North Museum to learn about the area's rich history. Engage with interactive exhibits and discover the stories of the Māori heritage and European settlement. Afterward, enjoy breakfast at a nearby café featuring local art.
Spend the afternoon at the nearby Ocean Beach, relaxing on the sands or taking a walk along the coast. Try out some water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding if you're feeling adventurous. Grab a late lunch at a beachside café with fresh seafood dishes.
Return to Havelock North and enjoy dinner at a renowned local restaurant known for its farm-to-table cuisine. Embrace the local culture by attending a community event or live music performance if available. Wind down the evening with a nightcap in a cozy bar.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🥗Lunch for two at cafe | $25-40 |
| 🍷Bottle of local wine | $15-30 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $120-200 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- World-class wines and award-winning cuisine
- Compact, walkable village center with easy access to nature
- Beautiful Te Mata Peak views and proximity to beaches
- Limited nightlife within the village itself
- Some attractions require a car and longer drives
- Seasonal crowds during harvest and holiday periods
- "Kia ora" - Hello / Thank you
- "Kei te pēhea koe?" - How are you?
- "Aroha mai" - Sorry / Excuse me
- "Tēnā koe" - Hello (formal)
- "Ka pai" - Good / well done
Places to Visit in Havelock North
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic panoramic viewpoints over Hawke's Bay; best at sunrise or sunset for dramatic light.
Wine country vistas with rows of vines and rolling hills—great for golden-hour photographs.
Art Deco silhouettes against the sea with palm trees and the historic promenade.
Wide water, mudflats and birdlife offering moody reflections and shoreline silhouettes.
Food in Havelock North
Havelock North Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A regional staple featuring tender lamb from local farms, often served with crispy potatoes and seasonal greens at village restaurants.
Must-Try!
Creamy chowder using freshly landed snapper and shellfish, a coastal favorite at many eateries.
A light, meringue-based dessert topped with local berries and cream, a quintessential NZ treat.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Fresh produce, cheeses, olive oils, honey and artisan street-food bites from regional producers.
A lively market near the marina offering local crafts, baked goods and quick bites from a variety of stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly 'Kia ora' or 'hello.' Be polite, patient, and respectful in conversation. When discussing Maori culture, listen respectfully and avoid presumption.
Keep noise to a reasonable level in residential areas and respect signs on private land and farms; dispose of rubbish properly and follow local trails.
Safety
Tipping in Havelock North
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not expected in New Zealand; a small tip for exceptional service is appreciated but not required. Rounding up bills is common in casual settings.
Most places accept EFTPOS and credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, contactless). Cash is accepted but increasingly less common; always have a card or mobile payment option.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days with warm to hot afternoons; plenty of outdoor dining and vineyard events. Bring sun protection and stay hydrated.
Harvest season brings cooler mornings and comfortable daytime temperatures; ideal for vineyard tours and food markets.
Mild but can be cool; layering is practical. Great time for cozy winery tastings and indoor dining.
Blooming landscapes and fresh produce; frequent light showers but many outdoor activities resume in full.
Havelock North at Night
Hiking in Havelock North
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A classic Hawke's Bay hike offering sweeping valley and coastline views; suitable for most fit hikers.
Rural trails with valley views and gentle to moderate climbs, accessible from Havelock North.
Coastal trails near Napier providing sea views and birdlife along the shore.
Airports
How to reach Havelock North by plane.
Regional airport serving Hawke's Bay with domestic flights to Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch; typically a 20–30 minute drive from Havelock North.
Major regional hub offering domestic connections; about a 2–3 hour drive south of Havelock North.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families due to good schools, parks, and a relaxed village vibe.
Visitors drawn to Hawke's Bay’s prolific wine scene; many come for winery tours and tastings.
The peaceful pace and amenities attract older visitors seeking a relaxed escape.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Strong regional presence with local clubs and the Hawke's Bay Magpies; popular spectator sport.
Coastal Hawke's Bay supports sailing, kayaking, and other water activities on good days.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Havelock North.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most menus include vegetarian options; look for seasonal vegetable dishes, salads and mushroom plates. If needed, ask the chef for a vegetarian adaptation or tasting menu.