Hawke’s Bay photo competition wraps for 2026 as judging set to start

A Hawke's Bay scorcher along Marine Parade, as Carys holds her aunty in the palm of her hand. Photo / Gemma Cornes

Our Summer in the Bay photo competition has wrapped for 2026, with more than 500 entries received.

Hawke’s Bay Today, Canon NZ and Harvey Norman Hastings have teamed up once again to give amateur photographers the chance to win great prizes.

We were looking for stunning pictures that showcase the best of our sizzling Hawke’s Bay summer.

We wanted to see a well-composed, interesting and memorable photo with a “wow” factor. And you delivered, Hawke’s Bay.

Judging will now begin with the finalists and winner announced in due course.

Here are some of the latest entries.

A Hawke's Bay scorcher along Marine Parade, as Carys holds her aunty in the palm of her hand. Photo / Gemma Cornes

Wild sika deer in the Eastern Kaweka Ranges. Photo / Dawson Bliss

Kahu’Pōtiki, 8, with a line out on a warm breazy morning at Pourerere beach Central Hawkes Bay. First Catch for 2026. Photo / Varna Smith

Our whānau caught this sting ray while surf casting at Pourerere Beach. Fisherman Shayden Smith removed the hook and released the stingray. Photo / Samantha Harrison 

Summer sun-kissed strawberries stretching toward forever, rooted in Hastings, the heart of Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand’s fruit bowl.  Photo / Chathuri Piumika

Mana and pops chewing the fat at Pakowhai dog park. Photo / John Adams