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

Liam Pentreath (background) ecstatic after his friend manages a side bomb. Photo / Jo Pentreath

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.

With salt on her skin and laughter in the waves, Millie McIntyre welcomes the New Year at Waimarama Beach. Photo / Lucy Lambess

Morning fog at the water towers near Napier Airport. Photo / Lauren Fisher

George Kay's friend Philip jumping into Lake Waikaremoana at Marauiti Hut. Photo / George Kay

Taradale sunset on January 10 at 8.46pm. Photo / Jaydn Stoltz

Theo Ruth says he took this picture of his wife at the sunflower farm on Havelock Rd. It was a scorcher – 38C. Photo / Theo Ruth

Maraetotara Falls on Boxing Day. Seems like half of Hawke's Bay decided this was the place to be. Photo / John Crook