10 TOP Things to Do in Hawke's Bay Region March 2026

Cape Kidnappers marks the southern most point of Hawke Bay on the east coast of the North Island of New Zealand.

It was named by Captain Cook after the one of his cabin boys was kidnapped by the local Maori in 1769.

Cape Kidnappers is home to a colony of Australasian Gannets which nest here over summer.

Access to this area is by walking (about 2 hours each way) at low tide only (ie starting to walk 3 hours before low tide), by a tractor and trailer ride along the beach, or by a 4wd bus through the farmland above the beach.

This photo is taken just after dawn, after a 2 hour walk in the dark along the beach.

Dawn rises over the city of Napier, with St Paul's Cathedral to the left of shot

Every year in September the Mabin family open their front paddocks to the public to let them explore ( and pick from ) their daffodils. They do this for free and all money raised from the sale of the daffodils goes to the Plunket Society

Napier , New Zealand
Sunrise on 2017 New Year's Day at the Napier's beach

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Most fun & popular experiences in Hawke's Bay Region

Tours & day trips

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Shore Excursion: 4 Hour Premium Hawke's Bay, Napier Art deco Tour

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Food, drink & nightlife

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Napier: Cape Kidnappers Gannet, Nature & Sightseeing Tour

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Craggy Range Deluxe Wine Tour - Private Option

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What to do in Hawke's Bay Region

Discover the most popular places to visit in Hawke's Bay Region

Marine Parade

After visiting Marine Parade, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Napier. Amble around this relaxing area's seaside and enjoy its top-notch restaurants.

Craggy Range

Set in the shadow of colossal Te Mata Peak, this vineyard brings together a quality fine wine experience and exceptional scenery.

Napier Beach

Why not spend a care-free afternoon at Napier Beach during your travels in Awatoto?

National Aquarium of New Zealand

The tanks at this modern aquarium play host to all kinds of underwater life, from cute sea creatures to fearsome marine predators.

Mission Estate Winery

Leave the city behind for a day to experience idyllic countryside surroundings and sip a range of magnificent wines.

Cape Kidnappers

Come within a few feet of one of the planet’s largest mainland gannet colonies. The seabirds nest here on this breathtaking peninsula.

Mahia Beach

Why not spend a care-free afternoon at Mahia Beach during your travels in Mahia?

Te Mata Peak

Not only a spectacular vantage point, this awesome mountain is also home to several species of rare flora and fauna.

Ocean Beach

Swim, surf and take long walks in the shadow of unspoiled scenery at this sweeping beach on the southern coastline of Hawke’s Bay.

Explore areas of Hawke's Bay Region

Napier South

If you're spending some time in Napier South, McLean Park and National Aquarium of New Zealand are top sights worth seeing.

Ahuriri

While visiting Ahuriri, you might make a stop by sights like National Tobacco Company Building and The Urban Winery.

Taradale

You'll enjoy the wineries and churches in Taradale. You might want to make time for a stop at Church Road Winery or Pettigrew Green Arena.

Bluff Hill

While visiting Bluff Hill, you might make a stop by sights like Napier Prison and Bluff Hill Domain Lookout.

Meeanee

While Meeanee isn't home to many top sights, Church Road Winery and Napier Beach are some notable places to visit nearby.

Hospital Hill

While there might not be top attractions in Hospital Hill, you can explore the larger area and discover places like War Memorial Conference Center and McLean Park.

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