Discover Hastings’ best places to eat, drink, shop and more with our guides.
The Hastings district is the heart of Hawke’s Bay, full of natural beauty with stunning beaches and coastline, lush green valleys and peaks.
The entire Hawke’s Bay region is renowned for its wineries and incredible local produce, and Hastings Heretaunga has earned a reputation for being a city of foodies. From the world-famous (in New Zealand) farmers' market that attracts visitors from near and far each Sunday to acclaimed restaurants and cafés dotted around the main centre, to artisan producers in the fields of beer brewing, gin distilling and coffee roasting, Hastings really does have it all.
In recent years, the city has undergone significant changes and a renaissance of sorts, and with the redevelopment of several key areas around the main centre, there is a buzz and energy in the air.
The re-opening of the Toitoi: Hawke's Bay Arts & Events Centre, which incorporates the Opera House and Municipal Building, is a huge step forward in celebrating arts and culture in Hastings and providing a next-generation venue for the city. Able to host events such as international music superstars, local school productions, nationwide conferences and more, this is a space that welcomes everyone.
Other exciting developments in the main centre include the rejuvenation of the East Block, with many restaurants and boutiques migrating to this end of town, bringing with them a vibrance and contributing their unique stories to the tapestry of Hastings. The establishment of The Tribune precinct is a part of this, too, with new life being breathed into the former newspaper building, it’s now a hub of food, culture, retail and other services for the people of Hastings and visitors to the city to enjoy.
Hastings provides a fantastic lifestyle complete with beautiful surroundings nearby, an arts and culture scene that is thriving and a food and beverage scene that continues to deliver year after year. Throw in a climate that produces warm balmy days in the summer and crisp winters, and this is a city that has a lot to offer residents and visitors alike year-round.
12 Hours Havelock North
Your guide to the best things to do in Havelock North, Hastings
A Walking Wonders Art Tour of Hastings Heretaunga
Ever since 1931, Hawke’s Bay has been ahead of the curve when it comes to art: the Napier earthquake prompting a rebuild which saw the city reinvent itself, art deco style. Although Napier required more of a rebuild, Hastings was certainly not exempt and many of those Art Deco and Spanish Mission-style buildings still stand today.
A Place in the Sun: Best Al Fresco Dining in Hastings and Havelock North
Commonly referred to as the ‘fruit bowl of New Zealand’, Hawke’s Bay is something of a paradise for culinary enthusiasts and wine connoisseurs alike. The region’s temperate climate lends itself to many an outside meal, and with an abundance of charming outdoor spaces on offer, al fresco dining is a concept most locals are more than just a little familiar with.
Get to Know the Inspiring Art and Architecture of Hastings
There are many aspects that make a city memorable and noteworthy, not only to visit but to call home and live your life in. Hastings is no different, and as the city has grown over the years, many unique sides have emerged.
A Wine and Food Lover's Guide to Hastings and Havelock North
Wine and Dine Your Way Around Hastings and Havelock North. Delicious food and a perfect glass of wine all start from the same beginning, using the highest quality ingredients. The wider Hawke’s Bay is home to some of the best produce in the country, making destinations like Hastings and Havelock North a wine and food lover’s dream. From fruit orchards to vineyards to some of the best industry minds working in the region, all work together in harmony to create a stellar hospitality scene.
Explore our Directory
View AllSt Martha
The Havelock North dining scene continues to trend positively, fuelled recently by its latest addition, St Martha.
Bambina Pizzeria
Alessandro Buttazzoni is a name possibly familiar to those from Hawke’ Bay, given he is the widely experienced creator of the beloved Alessandro’s Pizza e Pasta...
Lot 2
Havelock North’s Lot 2 is a laid back, unpretentious eatery that starts each day as a café, before transforming into an intimate evening destination.
Tu Meke Don
In a happy marriage of Japanese food and Kiwi vibes, Tu Meke Don is a real family-run business, operating out of the lively Tribune precinct in Hastings.
Craggy Range Restaurant
Family-owned Craggy Range is situated mere moments from Havelock North, nestled between the Tukituki River and the majestic hillside of Te Mata Peak.
Toitoi: Hawke's Bay Arts & Events Centre
Metaphorically, but also in the literal sense, Toitoi - Hawke’s Bay Arts and Events Centre is at the cultural heart of Hastings and provides a gathering point for both...
BROTHER
Brother. It’s a family-owned business, but the familial concept extends through to customers, staff, suppliers and other local businesses.
Black Barn Bistro
Right from the beginning, it was obvious that the warm north-facing slopes, the stunning outlook and the close proximity to the village of Havelock North meant that Black...
Hastings isite
The Hastings isite is a must-visit for any local or visitor to the region, and not just because it is an absolute hub of information.
Workroom
Hidden down a laneway on Joll Road in Havelock North, you will come across caffeine superstars Workroom.
Spooky’s Pizzeria
According to Luke, owner and chief pizza maker at Spooky's Pizzeria in Hastings, pizza has long been one of the best foods in the land.
Giant Brewing
Giant Brewing in Havelock North is the perfect place to gather with a group of mates, celebrate a family occasion and enjoy some excellent local beers.
Blackbird Goods
Found in the heart of the Heretaunga shopping precinct, Blackbird Goods is a store that specialises in thoughtful items to better your everyday life.
Hastings City Art Gallery
Te Whare Toi O Heretaunga Hastings City Art Gallery is focused on showcasing high-quality, contemporary art from Hawke's Bay, Aotearoa and beyond.
The Little Red Bookshop
Every city needs at least one good second-hand bookshop and if you live in or are visiting Hastings, then be prepared to strike gold at The Little Red Bookshop.
Pixie Bowls
Entering Pixie Bowls in Havelock North feels like being transported to the streets of Bondi Beach or Canggu in Bali.
So Vintage
So Vintage in the centre of Hastings is a treasure trove of antique, vintage and industrial style furniture and decor pieces.
Oh My Goodness Speciality Breads
Oh My Goodness is one of those places where you walk through the front doors and instantly sense the care and attention that has gone into creating the business.