Te Mata Peak, outside Havelock North. Photo / 123rf
Hawke's Bay winemaker Damian Fischer shares insider tips for exploring his hometown, Havelock North.
Havelock North is so special because of the village atmosphere. It's so accessible and central, with everything you need essentially within walking distance of each other.
The first thing I would do is head to
href="http://tematapark.co.nz" target="_blank">Te Mata Park and climb up to the top of Te Mata Peak. There are breath-taking 360-degree views of Hawke's Bay from the top of Te Mata Peak, which is 399m above sea level. You'll see Mt Kahurānaki, Mt Erin, the Heretaunga plain, the Ruahine and Kaweka ranges, Hastings, Napier, the Hawke's Bay itself, Māhia Peninsula and, on a good day, you can even see Mt Ruapehu.
After that I would head back down to the village and have a coffee and a croissant at Hawthorne Coffee Roasters, followed by some fried chicken at Mexican bar and restaurant Mamacita.
The smell of coffee beans being roasted on the spot – it's like a trail leading you home. And the battered, spicy chicken, deep fried and served piping hot – what's not to like!
