Hastings & Around

Introducing Hastings & Around

Positioned at the centre of the Hawkes Bay fruit bowl, Hastings is the commercial hub of the region. It means business, unlike its sister Napier, just 20km north. Similarly devastated by the 1931 earthquake its fine collation of Art Deco and Spanish Mission buildings also emerged in the aftermath. But apart from the architecture, Hastings itself isn’t especially interesting. It’s in the surrounding district that epicurean dreams come true.

A few kilometres of orchards still separate Havelock North from Hastings, although these days it’s effectively Hastings’ ritziest suburb. Range Rovers and BMWs cruise the streets as bleached-blonde 50-something wine wives sip lattes in a prosperous village atmosphere. The towering backdrop of Te Mata Peak keeps egos in check.

Last updated: Feb 17, 2009