Anneke Smith: Why Barack Obama should visit Hawke's Bay

Barack Obama and Sir John Key should enjoy a stroll on the Cape Kidnappers Golf Course in Hawke's Bay during the former US president's debut trip to New Zealand. Photo/Supplied

Barack Obama's arrival in New Zealand has prompted me to extend to him a heartfelt invitation to the best region our country has to offer, Hawke's Bay.

It's said the former US president may get a taste of Hawke's Bay by way of fine wine from Te Mata Estate and Craggy Range at an exclusive banquet dinner held in Auckland tonight, but I implore him to consider visiting our slice of paradise in person.

Mr Obama is known to indulge in a round of golf, doing just this on Wednesday morning at Kauri Cliffs in the Far North.

However recent world rankings show Hawke's Bay is the place to be for lovers of golf.

In January this year Cape Kidnappers Golf Course was named one of the world's best by Golf Digest, ranking 17th in the world ahead of Kauri Cliffs which was ranked 20 pegs down at 37th.

With sweeping views of the northern East Coast stretching beyond Mahia's curve, I can just picture Mr Obama settling down to a beautiful, locally-sourced meal with Bay wine in hand after a round with Sir John Key.

I stop short of suggesting his wife Michelle Obama could relax and rejuvenate with treatments at Cape Kidnappers' spa, seeing Barack is visiting solo, but that's not to say he couldn't enjoy the spa himself.

If that doesn't tickle his fancy he could opt for a bike ride along one of the many trails that explore the region's landscape, climb the rugged hills of Te Mata Peak or simply sit down to enjoy a Rush Munro icecream.

If he got really hungry there are dozens of reputable cafes and restaurants in Hawke's Bay, my favourite and personal recommendation being Birdwoods Gallery for a tray of locally-roasted coffee.

There's no doubt he's a busy man and in need of some time out, away from the hustle and bustle of his debut visit to New Zealand.

It's rumoured that after Wednesday's day on the green in the Far North he would return for another game today before heading back to Auckland for a private meeting with Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern.

I would like to cordially invite Mr Obama to try a second round of golf at our very own Cape Kidnappers Golf Course, surrounded by views like no other in the world.

Hawke's Bay has this to offer and more. So to you Mr Obama, I extend a warm invitation.