Heading off on a road trip in New Zealand? Hawke’s Bay, with its sun-drenched vineyards and bountiful produce, is a must-visit destination.
Whether you're a seasoned camper or a first-timer looking to rent a travel van, this region offers loads of awesome experiences that won't break the bank.
In this guide, we'll explore the best free things to do in Hawke's Bay, along with affordable activities that offer great bang for your buck. From the art deco charm of Napier to walking trails and beautiful beaches, get ready to explore NZ like never before.
Where is Hawke’s Bay?
Located on the east coast of New Zealand's North Island, Hawke’s Bay is a picturesque region that's easily accessible yet feels like a world away from the hustle and bustle.
It's about a six-hour drive from Auckland and four hours from Wellington, making it an ideal spot for those looking to explore NZ beyond the major cities.
The region stretches from the quaint town of Wairoa down to Cape Kidnappers, offering up a diverse range of landscapes and scenery, from pristine beaches to picturesque vineyards.
What’s Hawke’s Bay known for?
Hawke’s Bay is celebrated for its natural beauty, cultural richness, and culinary excellence. It's renowned for its world-class wineries, with the region being the oldest wine-producing area in New Zealand.
The region is also famous for its Art Deco architecture, particularly in Napier, which was rebuilt in this style following the 1931 earthquake.
Beyond its architectural wonders, Hawke’s Bay is known for its fresh produce, showcased in local farmers' markets, and its significant Māori cultural sites, offering a glimpse into New Zealand's rich heritage.
Image: Tourism New Zealand
What's the best way to explore Hawke’s Bay?
The ultimate way to make the most of everything on offer in Hawke’s Bay is to hit the road in a comfy campervan.
With a Mighty campervan hire, you have the freedom to create your own itinerary and explore at your own pace. Take your time to explore those secluded beaches, park up near a vineyard for an afternoon of sampling or explore the numerous cycle trails.
Van travel is all about making your trip as laid-back or as adventurous as you like. It's a hit with everyone, from local Kiwis to international travellers.
Exploring Hawke’s Bay in a campervan is also super easy on your wallet. By cooking your own delicious meals in your Mighty camper, you can save serious bucks on dining out.
Plus, with the flexibility to stay anywhere from well-equipped campgrounds to freedom camping sites, it’s the perfect way to stretch your holiday budget.
The best cheap/free things to do in Hawke’s Bay
Let’s check out some of the best cheap and free things to do in Hawke’s Bay worth adding to your road trip itinerary planner.
1. See the wildlife at Peka Peka Wetlands
Ready for a chill day surrounded by nature? Peka Peka Wetlands, a short 12 km drive south of Hastings, is the perfect spot to visit by camper. This place is huge with 98 hectares of some of the coolest wetlands in Hawke's Bay.
Stroll along the boardwalks, wander up to the lookout, and get ready for some awesome views. This wetland is a real biodiversity hotspot. You might be lucky enough to see some rare birds like the NZ dabchick or even the elusive Australasian bittern. Plus, there are over 82 plant species to check out.
2. Discover Napier’s Art Deco architecture
The Hawke’s Bay city of Napier is a paradise for architecture enthusiasts and history buffs.
Napier is renowned for its striking Art Deco architecture, a style that emerged in the 1930s following a devastating earthquake.
Taking a self-guided walk through Napier's Art Deco precinct is not only free but also rich in cultural heritage. Starting at the Napier info centre or the Napier Art Deco Trust shop, you can get directions for the best routes to explore. For a small investment of $7.50, the Art Deco Self-Guided Walk Booklet details insights into the city's architectural wonders.
As you wander through the streets, you'll be captivated by the colourful and decorative buildings, each telling a story of resilience and rebirth.
3. Hike to the peak of Te Mata
One of Hawke’s Bay’s top attractions, Te Mata Park offers more than just breathtaking views; it's a place steeped in rich Māori history and cultural significance.
The park, renowned for its scenic beauty, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The trails cater to all fitness levels, leading you through diverse landscapes, from dense native bush to open grasslands, before culminating at the summit. Here, you're rewarded with panoramic views of Hawke’s Bay, making it a perfect spot for a memorable photo.
Picnicking is a popular activity in the park, with the Big Redwoods area being a favourite among visitors. Planted in 1927, this grove of towering trees provides a fantastic backdrop for a relaxing lunch.
For those interested in geocaching, Te Mata Park offers several caches to discover, adding an element of adventure to your hike. The park is also dog-friendly (just like Mighty campers!), making it ideal for visitors who are exploring NZ with their furry companions.
4. Stock up at the Hawke’s Bay Farmers Market
A visit to Hawke’s Bay isn't complete without experiencing the bustling Hawke’s Bay Farmers Market. Celebrated as a hub of local produce and artisanal goods, the market is a feast for the senses. Open every Sunday from 8.30 am to 12.30 pm at Waikoko Gardens, Tōmoana Showgrounds, it's a must-visit for anyone exploring NZ in a campervan.
As you wander through the market, you'll find a fantastic selection of stalls offering everything from fresh vegetables and fruits to organic meats, artisan bread, eggs, and handcrafted preserves.
It's a chance to meet the local producers and purchase straight from the source, which means you get the freshest and finest products available. Whether you're stocking up for your campervan road trip or looking for unique local gifts, the market has something for everyone.
5. Stroll along the Tuki Tuki River Loop
Sitting between the Central Hawke’s Bay townships of Waipukurau and Waipawa, the Tuki Tuki River Loop is a picturesque trail network for walkers, cyclists, and mountain bikers.
Whether you're in the mood for a leisurely walk or a more vigorous cycling experience, the trail caters to all levels of fitness and adventure. The path meanders along the Tuki Tuki River, providing stunning views and a peaceful setting to unwind and connect with nature.
One of the highlights of the trail is the swing bridge, a great spot for a photo and to check out the river from above.
The trail is also nice and handy to other local attractions, including cafes, historic sites, and wineries, making it a great addition to your Hawkes Bay activities list.
6. Take a tour of the Napier Prison
Ready for a bit of time travel with a twist? Napier Prison is your ticket to a fascinating slice of New Zealand's history.
Built back in 1861, it's the oldest prison in the country, which also means it's brimming with stories that are equal parts intriguing and eerie.
The prison offers a range of tours, from self-guided walks where you can soak up the atmosphere at your own pace, to guided tours that dish out all the juicy details of the prison's past.
Tours start from a super affordable price, making it a great addition to your list of things to do in Napier without breaking the bank.
7. Have a picnic at Waimarama Beach
Fancy a beach day? Waimarama Beach is your go-to spot in Hawke's Bay.
An easy 20-minute drive from Havelock North, past the gorgeous Craggy Range winery, Waimarama Beach is super easy to get to in your campervan. It's got all the essentials covered – good mobile coverage, a handy general store, and even a café for when you need that caffeine fix or a quick bite.
Waimarama has a cool cultural side too. It's home to Hakikino, an ancient fortress site. You can even book a tour to dive into the local history and stories, adding a dash of education to your beach day.
So, if you're mapping out your Hawkes Bay activities, make sure to pencil in a day at Waimarama Beach. It's the perfect mix of sun, surf, and a sprinkle of history. Plus, with the surf club keeping an eye out from December to March, you can enjoy the waves worry-free.
8. Watch the sunset at Bluff Hill Lookout
Perched high above Napier, the Bluff Hill Lookout offers a panoramic view that’s hard to beat. The climb up the 4.4 km walk offers a bit of a challenge, but the reward at the end is worth it, especially if you plan your visit to take in the sunset.
It’s the perfect place to chill out, watch the boats on the harbour, and let the colours of the sunset wash over you. And if you're lucky, you might just catch one of those sunsets that turn the whole sky into a masterpiece.
Image: Tourism New Zealand
9. Sample honey at the Arataki Honey Visitor Centre
Got a sweet tooth? Or maybe just curious about the buzz around honey? The Arataki Honey Visitor Centre is the perfect place to explore and taste.
At the centre, you get to immerse yourself in the fascinating process of honey-making. You can even get an up-close look at the bees in action. It's a unique chance to see these hardworking little creatures doing what they do best.
The centre is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm, and the best part is, entry is free. For those who want a deeper dive, book into one of the cool tours filled with interesting bee facts and stories. Some tours have a small charge, but they're definitely worth checking out.
Parking is easy, with ample space for cars and campervans, and they've even got activities for kids during school holidays.
Budget-friendly holiday parks in Hawke’s Bay
Now that you’ve got a great list of awesome things to do in Hawke’s Bay for free, let’s take a look at some top spots to park up your camper.
Freedom camping in Napier
For the ultimate laid-back campervan experience in Napier, freedom camping is a fantastic option.
You can set up camp at designated spots like:
The BMX Pump Track carpark on Marine Parade, where self-contained vehicles are welcome for up to three nights.
Another popular spot is the Perfume Point carpark, perfect for a short two-night stay.
The Foreshore Reserve carpark is also a good option, accommodating eight vehicles for up to two nights.
Westshore Holiday Park
Just a stone's throw away from Napier Airport, Westshore Holiday Park offers a convenient and scenic stay.
The park is also nice and close to the summer-patrolled Westshore Beach, making it an ideal base for beach lovers and explorers alike. Plus, with cycle tracks right on the boundary, it's a great starting point for a cycling adventure.
The park also borders the unique Ahuriri Estuary Boardwalk and Bird Reserve, offering a chance to connect with nature right at your doorstep.
Explore Hawke’s Bay with Mighty
There you have it – a taste of the best low-cost and free things to do in Hawke's Bay.
From the stunning vistas at Bluff Hill Lookout to the sweet delights of Arataki Honey Visitor Centre, and the relaxing vibes of Waimarama Beach, there's something for everyone.
And what better way to explore these gems than in the comfort of a Mighty campervan? With the flexibility to roam and the convenience of your home on wheels, you're set for an unforgettable journey.
So why wait? Book your Mighty campervan online today and start planning your ultimate road trip through the beautiful Hawke's Bay. Adventure, freedom, and a host of incredible experiences are waiting!
Image: Tourism New Zealand
Image: Tourism New Zealand