‘Hawke’s Bay Wine Country’ is a lifestyle second to none and sets the scene for visitors to explore the region’s produce from award winning wines, fresh produce, gourmet meats and a vast array of epicurean delights. The warm climate is conducive to all things living and has earned Hawke’s Bay the reputation as a leader in food and wine production.
No matter when you visit, some food or wine is ‘in season’. Spring heralds the new asparagus, strawberries, lettuce and herbs. Summer kicks into life with sweetcorn, eggplant, berries, cherries and stone fruit. Autumn harvests apples, pears, avocados and olives while winter is the time for citrus fruit and hearty vegetables.
One thing remains the same – the wine, which can be enjoyed all year round. Although there is nothing better than late summer when the vines are overflowing with grapes ready to be pressed for the next vintage.
For food lovers wanting to taste all things fresh follow the popular Hawke's Bay Wine Country Food Trail which takes in many gourmet delights. Each food trail destination is well marked at the gate or entranceway, with a corresponding number on the food trail map.
For weekend visitors the “not to be missed” events are the weekly Hawke’s Bay Farmers Markets in Napier on Tennyson Street every Saturday morning and at the Hawke’s Bay Showgrounds on Sunday mornings. Locals and visitors a like flock to these markets to see, touch, smell and taste the many ‘local only’ goods. During Summer a Saturday market is held at Black Barn Vineyards in Havelock North.
"Hawke’s Bay is a sun-drenched region where you can grow just about anything. And right now, what seems to be growing fastest is its reputation as a gourmet destination." Air NZ – March 2004
