Fun Things to Do in Hastings | Travel Guide (2024) | Best Places to Visit
Hastings Travel Guide
Quick overview of Hastings with our expert tips and insights. Jump to any section.
Welcome to Hastings, a vibrant city located on the eastern coast of the North Island. Known for its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and thriving wine industry, Hastings offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience. As the largest city in the Hawke's Bay region, Hastings is home to a diverse range of attractions and activities that cater to all interests. From exploring the picturesque vineyards and indulging in world-class wines to immersing yourself in Maori culture and enjoying outdoor adventures, Hastings has something for everyone. So pack your bags and get ready to discover the beauty and charm of this hidden gem in New Zealand.
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Things To Do In Hastings
Hastings offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Here are some things to do in Hastings:
1. Explore Te Mata Peak: This iconic landmark offers stunning panoramic views of the region. Visitors can hike or bike to the summit and enjoy the breathtaking scenery.
2. Visit the Hawke's Bay Farmers' Market: Held every Sunday, this vibrant market is a great place to sample local produce, indulge in delicious food, and browse unique crafts and products.
3. Tour the wineries: Hastings is part of the renowned Hawke's Bay wine region, known for its exceptional wines. Take a winery tour and taste a variety of wines while learning about the wine-making process.
4. Discover the Art Deco architecture: Hastings, along with its neighboring city Napier, is famous for its Art Deco buildings. Stroll through the streets and admire the beautifully preserved architecture.
5. Visit the Hastings City Art Gallery: This gallery showcases a diverse range of artworks from local and international artists. Attend an exhibition or participate in a workshop to immerse yourself in the local art scene.
6. Explore Cape Kidnappers: Located just outside of Hastings, Cape Kidnappers is home to a large gannet colony. Take a guided tour to see these magnificent birds up close and enjoy the stunning coastal scenery.
7. Experience the Splash Planet: This water park and amusement park is a perfect family-friendly attraction. Enjoy thrilling water slides, relax in the lazy river, or have a picnic in the beautiful park surroundings.
8. Take a cycling tour: Hastings offers a range of cycling trails that allow you to explore the picturesque countryside. Rent a bike and pedal through vineyards, orchards, and scenic landscapes.
9. Visit the Arataki Honey Visitor Centre: Hastings is known for its honey production, and this visitor center provides an opportunity to learn about the fascinating world of bees and honey production. Taste different types of honey and purchase some to take home.
Tours And Activities In Hastings
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Best Time To Visit Hastings
The best time to visit Hastings is during the summer months of December to February. This is when the weather is warm and sunny, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the beautiful landscapes of the region. Additionally, February is the month when the annual Hawke's Bay Wine and Food Festival takes place, offering visitors the opportunity to sample delicious local wines and culinary delights. However, it's important to note that Hastings can get quite busy during this time, so it's advisable to book accommodations and activities in advance.
Flight Calendar For Hastings
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Best Areas To Stay In Hastings
Hastings offers several great areas for accommodation. Here are a few options to consider:
1. Hastings City Center: This bustling area is the heart of Hastings and offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly motels. Staying in the city center allows easy access to shops, restaurants, and attractions such as the Hawke's Bay Opera House and the Farmers' Market.
2. Havelock North: Located just a short drive from Hastings, Havelock North is a charming village known for its boutique shops, cafes, and wineries. Accommodation options here include boutique hotels, bed and breakfasts, and self-catering cottages. Havelock North is also close to Te Mata Peak, a popular hiking spot with stunning views.
3. Napier: While not technically in Hastings, Napier is a neighboring city that offers a unique accommodation experience. Known for its Art Deco architecture and vibrant waterfront, Napier offers a range of hotels, motels, and apartments. Staying in Napier allows easy access to attractions like the National Aquarium of New Zealand and the Marine Parade.
4. Clive: Situated between Hastings and Napier, Clive is a peaceful area with a rural feel. Accommodation options here include charming bed and breakfasts and self-contained cottages. Clive is a great choice for those seeking a tranquil retreat while still being within easy reach of both Hastings and Napier.
Overall, Hastings offers a variety of accommodation options in different areas, catering to different preferences and budgets. Whether you prefer the convenience of the city center, the charm of Havelock North, the vibrancy of Napier, or the tranquility of Clive, you are sure to find a suitable place to stay in this beautiful region.
Hotels Map Of Hastings
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Transportation To Hastings
There are several transportation options to get to Hastings.
1. By Air: The nearest airport to Hastings is Hawke's Bay Airport (NPE), located in Napier, which is about a 25-minute drive from Hastings. There are domestic flights available from major cities in New Zealand, such as Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch.
2. By Car: Hastings is easily accessible by car. State Highway 2 (SH2) runs through the city, connecting it to other major cities in the North Island. The driving distance from Auckland to Hastings is approximately 400 kilometers and takes around 4-5 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
3. By Bus: There are bus services available from various cities in New Zealand to Hastings. Intercity and Naked Bus are two popular bus operators that provide services to Hastings. The journey time and frequency of buses may vary depending on the departure location.
4. By Train: Although there is no direct train service to Hastings, you can take a train to Napier and then continue the journey to Hastings by bus or taxi. The Northern Explorer train service operates between Auckland and Wellington, with a stop in Napier.
5. By Ferry: If you are coming from the South Island, you can take a ferry from Wellington to Picton and then drive or take a bus to Hastings. Interislander and Bluebridge are the two main ferry operators in New Zealand.
Once you arrive in Hastings, there are local transportation options available, such as taxis, rental cars, and local bus services, to help you get around the city and explore the surrounding areas.
Nearby Destination From Hastings
1. Napier: Known for its art deco architecture and vibrant waterfront.
2. Havelock North: A charming village famous for its wineries and gourmet food.
3. Clive: A small town with beautiful river views and a popular spot for fishing.
4. Haumoana: A coastal settlement offering stunning beaches and great surfing opportunities.
5. Te Awanga: A picturesque village known for its vineyards and scenic coastal walks.
6. Flaxmere: A suburb of Hastings with a strong sense of community and various recreational facilities.
7. Bridge Pa: A rural area renowned for its vineyards and wineries, offering wine tasting experiences.
8. Pakowhai: A peaceful rural settlement with a historic homestead and gardens to explore.
9. Whakatu: A suburb of Hastings with a rich Maori heritage and a thriving industrial area.
10. Bay View: A seaside community with panoramic views of Hawke's Bay and a popular spot for fishing and boating.