Hawke’s Bay has many well-known events and attractions, but visitors can explore hidden gems. Step away from the hustle and bustle for a day, and check out our top picks for some fun off the beaten track in Hawke’s Bay.
Otatara Pa Historic Reserve
This hidden gem is much closer to home, just up the road from the Colonial Lodge Motel. The historic reserve offers spectacular views all the way out to Cape Kidnappers, and on a clear day, you may even see Mount Ruapehu. This 33-hectare reserve formed 25 years ago gives great insight into Maori history. Let us know if you want to visit, and we can point you in the right direction.
Visit DOC Website
Birdwoods Cafe and Gallery
This is a countryside Cafe, Gallery and Sweet shop located just a 20-minute drive from the motel. The old-fashioned sweets, sculpture garden and outdoor terrace are a great way to spend an enjoyable afternoon in Hawke’s Bay. The buildings themselves are a beautiful site, with the gallery being an old Church Hall built in 1894, and the sweet shop is housed in a colonial cottage. Your kids will love you forever after an afternoon at Birdwoods!
birdswood.co.nz
Waipatiki Beach
This is one of Napier’s most picturesque beaches, a 30-minute drive from Napier, the beach is nestled in native bush and surrounded by golden sand. There is a picnic area and toilets so you can settle in for a day of swimming, sunbathing and exploring the 64ha of coastal Forrest that houses several of our native birds. It is a local family favourite and worth the drive.
hawkesbaynz.com
Visit One of the longest Place names in the world.
Taumatawhakatangihangakoauauotamateaturipukakapikimaungahoronukupokaiwhenuakitanatahu, you should try to pronounce it, and if not, I’m sure the locals can help you out! At 85 characters, this is one of the longest place names in the world. More simply referred to as Taumata Hill, it is situated near Porangahau in southern Hawke’s Bay. The sign displaying the name is about 5 km off the main highway and is a great photo opportunity for the family.
