Hawke's Bay Trails Napier New Zealand
Explore Hawke's Bay's scenic trails, from coastal paths to vineyard routes and challenging peaks. Perfect for cycling and hiking.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, ideal for cycling
Hawke's Bay Trails Napier New Zealand
Best Time
Fewer crowds, ideal for cycling
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Hawke's Bay's scenic trails, from coastal paths to vineyard routes and challenging peaks. Perfect for cycling and hiking.
"The trails are excellent, offering beautiful scenery and convenient access to wineries."
Bike Hire Convenience
Consider bike hire in Napier for easy access to trails. Many offer deals for vineyard tours! :bike:
Trail Etiquette is Key
Be mindful of others! Keep left on shared paths, especially with family groups. :peopleholdinghands:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Te Mata Peak
Near Havelock North
Panoramic vistas of Hawke's Bay, ranges, and even distant volcanoes. Hike, bike, or drive to the summit.
Napier Coastal Cycle Trail
Clive to Napier
A scenic 13km ride offering oceanfront beauty, transitioning to charming town and vineyard landscapes.
Bell Rock Loop Track
Near Napier
A diverse hike through forest, fields, and unique rock formations, offering a taste of North Island beauty.
Mohaka River Farm Trails
Between Napier and Taupo
Explore walking trails, enjoy riverside picnics, and experience farm life amidst scenic beauty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Trails
Vineyard Access & Etiquette
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bike Hire Convenience
Consider bike hire in Napier for easy access to trails. Many offer deals for vineyard tours! :bike:
Trail Etiquette is Key
Be mindful of others! Keep left on shared paths, especially with family groups. :peopleholdinghands:
Vineyard Stops
Plan routes that pass by wineries like Clearview Vineyard for a wine flight and snacks. :wine_glass:
Pack for All Terrains
Trails vary from forest to open fields. Comfortable walking shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe:
Tips
from all over the internet
Bike Hire Convenience
Consider bike hire in Napier for easy access to trails. Many offer deals for vineyard tours! :bike:
Trail Etiquette is Key
Be mindful of others! Keep left on shared paths, especially with family groups. :peopleholdinghands:
Vineyard Stops
Plan routes that pass by wineries like Clearview Vineyard for a wine flight and snacks. :wine_glass:
Pack for All Terrains
Trails vary from forest to open fields. Comfortable walking shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe:
Check Trail Conditions
While generally well-maintained, always check local advisories before heading out. :information_desk:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Hawke's Bay trails for their excellent condition, clear signage, and beautiful scenery, particularly the coastal paths and vineyard routes. While generally flat and accessible, some reviewers note that shared paths can become crowded, requiring awareness of trail etiquette. Overall, the trails are highly recommended for a pleasant and scenic experience.
"The trails around Hawke’s Bay are excellent. Certainly not challenging, it’s flat, but well built and excellent signage."
G Frost
"Trails are excellent but be weary of others using the tracks and shared paths. Unfortunately not everyone knows about keeping left and big families taking up the entire pathway and not aware of other users."
Gerrard B
"It was a amazing and lovely experience and highly recommend to everyone"
J Singh
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Many trails are accessible directly from Napier, especially the coastal paths. For inland trails like Te Mata Peak or Bell Rock, a car or organized tour is recommended. Bike hire is also a popular option for exploring the region's extensive network. 
Public transport options are limited for direct trail access. It's best to rely on cycling, driving, or shuttle services, especially if you plan to visit multiple wineries or trailheads.
Yes, Napier's cruise port is a great starting point for exploring the trails. Many visitors opt for bike hire or guided tours that depart directly from the port.
Parking is generally available at popular trailheads like Te Mata Peak and the start of the coastal trails. However, it can get busy, especially on weekends.
Cycling is a fantastic way to link wineries and trails. Alternatively, consider a wine tour that incorporates trail access or use ride-sharing services if available.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Most walking and cycling trails in Hawke's Bay are free to access. There are no specific entry tickets required for the trails themselves.
Access to Te Mata Peak is generally free for hikers and cyclists. If you choose to drive to the summit, standard road access applies.
It's highly recommended to book wine tastings in advance, especially for popular wineries or during peak tourist seasons, to avoid disappointment.
Winery hours vary, but most are open daily from late morning to late afternoon. It's best to check the specific winery's website for their current operating hours.
Yes, numerous guided tours are available that combine wine tasting with cycling or walking along the trails, offering a convenient way to explore.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The trails are generally considered easy to moderate, with many being flat and well-maintained, ideal for casual walkers and cyclists. Te Mata Peak offers a more challenging ascent.
Expect diverse scenery including coastal views, rolling vineyards, lush forests, and unique rock formations. The Napier coastal trail offers stunning ocean vistas.
Yes, many of the flatter, well-maintained trails are very family-friendly. The coastal paths and vineyard trails are great for a relaxed family outing.
Comfortable walking shoes or cycling gear is essential. Bring water, sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellent, especially for forest trails.
Absolutely! Many trails are designed to pass by or connect to renowned Hawke's Bay wineries, making it easy to enjoy both.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Many wineries along the trails offer excellent dining experiences, from casual cafes to fine dining restaurants. Some trails also pass by local eateries.
Yes, there are many scenic spots perfect for picnics, especially along the coastal paths and by the Mohaka River.
Wineries like Clearview Vineyard are popular for their food, including hand-cut potato skins. Many vineyards offer platters and light meals.
Most wineries and restaurants in Hawke's Bay are accustomed to dietary requests and offer vegetarian and vegan options. It's always good to check menus or inform them when booking.
While not directly on all trails, the Hawke's Bay region is known for its local produce. You might find farm stands or local markets in nearby towns.
📸 📸 Photography
Te Mata Peak offers breathtaking panoramic views. The coastal trails provide stunning ocean shots, and vineyard landscapes are picturesque year-round.
Golden hour, just after sunrise and before sunset, offers the most dramatic lighting for landscape photography. Midday can be harsh but still offers clear views.
Drone regulations can vary. It's essential to check local bylaws and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone in protected areas or near private property.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for distant views from Te Mata Peak. A good phone camera is also sufficient for most shots.
Don't miss the unique rock formations on the Bell Rock track, the sweeping ocean views on the Napier coastal trail, and the vast expanse from Te Mata Peak.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the many scenic spots along the way, or stop at a family-friendly winery cafe for a treat. For a bit more adventure, the Bell Rock Loop Track offers a chance to explore forests and unique rock formations, sparking the imagination of younger explorers. While Te Mata Peak offers stunning views, the drive to the summit might be more manageable for families with very young children than a full hike.
🍷 Wine Enthusiasts
Consider exploring different sub-regions within Hawke's Bay to sample a variety of wines, from crisp Sauvignon Blancs to robust Merlots. Many wineries offer guided tours that delve into the winemaking process, adding an educational element to your trail adventures.
🚴♀️ Active Adventurers
+1 For hikers, the ascent of Te Mata Peak offers a rewarding challenge with spectacular panoramic views as your prize. Remember to pack appropriate gear, including comfortable cycling attire or hiking boots, and stay hydrated. Many trails are multi-use, so be mindful of other users and enjoy the diverse landscapes Hawke's Bay has to offer.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Hawke's Bay by Bike
+1When cycling, remember that many paths are shared with walkers. Trail etiquette is crucial; always keep to the left and be aware of other users, especially families. The terrain is largely flat, making it accessible for most fitness levels, though some inland routes might include gentle inclines. Consider packing a small repair kit and plenty of water, as services can be sparse between towns.
For a truly immersive experience, look for tours that combine cycling with wine tasting. These often include transport for your bike and curated stops at top wineries, allowing you to sample the region's famous Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, and Merlot without the worry of cycling after a few glasses.
+1Hiking Adventures in Hawke's Bay
+1When planning your hikes, consider the terrain. While many trails are well-maintained and relatively easy, some, like the ascent to Te Mata Peak, require a good level of fitness. Always wear appropriate footwear, such as sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots, and carry essentials like water, snacks, and sun protection.
+1For a more unique experience, consider trails at places like Mohaka River Farm, which offers opportunities for farm life interaction alongside scenic walks and picnics by the river. These trails provide a glimpse into the rural heart of Hawke's Bay and are perfect for those seeking a tranquil escape.
Vineyard Trails: A Perfect Pairing
The region boasts a wide array of wineries, from large, well-established estates to smaller, boutique producers. Planning a route that incorporates a few stops allows for a relaxed pace and a deeper appreciation of the local varietals. It's advisable to book tastings in advance, especially during busy periods, to ensure a spot and a personalized experience.
Combining trail exploration with wine tasting is a quintessential Hawke's Bay experience. Whether you're cycling between cellar doors or taking a leisurely walk with vineyard views, this pairing offers a delightful sensory journey through one of New Zealand's most celebrated wine regions.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit