Te Mata Peak
Iconic mountain offering breathtaking 360-degree views of Hawke's Bay, accessible by scenic drive or hiking trails.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical light for photos
Te Mata Peak
Best Time
Magical light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic mountain offering breathtaking 360-degree views of Hawke's Bay, accessible by scenic drive or hiking trails.
"Absolutely amazing panoramic views of the region. Tracks are very well maintained."
🚗 Drive with Caution
The final stretch of the road is narrow. Be mindful of oncoming traffic, especially around blind corners. :car:
🥾 Hike or Drive?
Choose between a scenic hike or a convenient drive to the summit. Both offer incredible experiences! :hiking_boot::car:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Hawke's Bay Views
Summit
Experience breathtaking 360-degree vistas of vineyards, rolling hills, and the coastline. A true feast for the eyes!
The Sleeping Giant Legend
Te Mata Peak
Discover the Māori legend of the sleeping giant, whose body forms the mountain's cliffs. A touch of local lore adds depth to the landscape.
Golden Hour Magic
Summit
Witness the peak bathed in the warm, ethereal glow of sunrise or sunset. Perfect for unforgettable photos and a serene moment.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Conquer the Climb or Cruise to the Top
Timing is Everything for Epic Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive with Caution
The final stretch of the road is narrow. Be mindful of oncoming traffic, especially around blind corners. :car:
🥾 Hike or Drive?
Choose between a scenic hike or a convenient drive to the summit. Both offer incredible experiences! :hiking_boot::car:
🌬️ Wind Advisory
It can get quite windy at the peak, even on sunny days. Bring an extra layer! :cloudwithwind_face:
📸 Golden Hour Goals
Visit during sunrise or sunset for breathtaking light and unforgettable photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive with Caution
The final stretch of the road is narrow. Be mindful of oncoming traffic, especially around blind corners. :car:
🥾 Hike or Drive?
Choose between a scenic hike or a convenient drive to the summit. Both offer incredible experiences! :hiking_boot::car:
🌬️ Wind Advisory
It can get quite windy at the peak, even on sunny days. Bring an extra layer! :cloudwithwind_face:
📸 Golden Hour Goals
Visit during sunrise or sunset for breathtaking light and unforgettable photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:
🗺️ Explore the Trails
Well-maintained tracks offer opportunities for walking and mountain biking. :mountain_bicyclist:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently rave about the absolutely amazing, incredible panoramic views of Hawke's Bay from Te Mata Peak. The well-maintained tracks and scenic drive are frequently praised, offering fresh air and great photo opportunities. Some note that it can get windy at the summit, and caution is advised on the narrow final stretch of the road.
"Absolutely amazing panoramic views of the region. Tracks are very well maintained. A good day to visit is a nice sunny day preferably without wind as it can get quite windy at the peak."
Kava Guy
"Such an amazing place to visit the views are incredible. Take your time, go for a wonder.. Great photos fresh air 👌 🙌"
Karina Hunt
"What an amazing view of Hastings. You can see for miles and the drive up is stunning. There's a winery in the distance worth a visit."
Stuart Nobbs
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Te Mata Peak by car, with a scenic drive up the mountain. There are also hiking trails for those who prefer to trek. The drive offers stunning views as you ascend. 
Yes, there is a car park available at the summit, allowing easy access to the lookout points.
Yes, you can drive to the summit of Te Mata Peak. The road is well-maintained but can be narrow in parts, especially the final section.
Various well-maintained tracks cater to hikers of all levels. Research local trail maps for the best routes suited to your fitness.
Public transport options to the base of Te Mata Peak are limited. Driving or taking a taxi/rideshare is generally recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Te Mata Peak is generally free to enter and explore, making it an accessible natural attraction.
Te Mata Peak is typically open 24/7, allowing visitors to enjoy sunrise, sunset, and stargazing. However, always check for any temporary closures or specific park hours.
No, tickets are not required for Te Mata Peak as it's a public park. You can visit anytime.
While generally open, be aware of any local advisories regarding weather conditions or specific trail closures. Always respect the natural environment.
Yes, Te Mata Peak is accessible at night, offering incredible stargazing opportunities. However, exercise caution due to darkness and potential wind.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Enjoy panoramic views, hiking, mountain biking, photography, and learning about the local Māori legends.
Te Mata Peak stands at approximately 399 meters (1,309 feet) above sea level.
Yes, families can enjoy the scenic drive and short walks. The summit offers space for picnics and enjoying the views.
While not a primary wildlife viewing spot, you might encounter native birds. The focus is more on the stunning landscapes.
Basic facilities like lookout points and some seating may be available. It's advisable to bring your own water and snacks.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Golden hour, during sunrise and sunset, offers the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photography.
Capture sweeping panoramic landscapes, the winding road, vineyards, rolling hills, and the coastline.
A smartphone camera is sufficient for great shots, but a DSLR or mirrorless camera will allow for more creative control, especially for landscape photography.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check with local authorities or park management before flying a drone to ensure compliance.
Experiment with wide-angle shots from the summit to capture the vastness, and look for interesting foreground elements to add depth.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the hiking trails can be challenging for very young children, shorter, easier walks are available. The legend of the sleeping giant can also spark imagination and make the visit more engaging for younger visitors. Remember to bring snacks, water, and layers for changing weather conditions.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
+1Allocate at least a couple of hours to fully enjoy the views, take photos, and perhaps enjoy a packed lunch. Consider combining your visit with nearby attractions in Hawke's Bay, such as wineries or coastal towns, to create a fuller itinerary.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
+2Experiment with different focal lengths to capture both sweeping landscapes and intricate details. The winding road offers leading lines, and the unique geological formations provide compelling subjects. Be prepared for wind, which can add a dynamic element to shots, but also be mindful of its impact on equipment.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Te Mata Peak: Drive vs. Hike
For the more adventurous, hiking Te Mata Peak presents a rewarding challenge. Numerous well-maintained trails wind their way up the mountain, offering a more intimate connection with the landscape. These trails vary in difficulty, making it possible for most fitness levels to find a suitable route. Hiking allows you to appreciate the flora and fauna up close and offers a sense of accomplishment upon reaching the summit.
+1Regardless of your chosen method, the views from the top are the ultimate prize. Whether you drive or hike, the effort is undeniably worth it for the breathtaking 360-degree vistas of Hawke's Bay.
+1The Legends and Lore of Te Mata Peak
Local lore suggests that the cliffs themselves are the body of a sleeping giant, a powerful image that resonates with the imposing presence of the mountain. This connection to the land and its stories adds a unique dimension to the visitor experience, inviting contemplation beyond just the visual spectacle.
Understanding these legends enhances the appreciation of Te Mata Peak, transforming it from a mere viewpoint into a place of cultural heritage and storytelling. It’s a reminder of the deep connection between the land and its people.
Capturing the Magic: Photography at Te Mata Peak
+2The golden hour, encompassing sunrise and sunset, is particularly magical. The warm, soft light bathes the landscape in a golden hue, creating dramatic shadows and vibrant colors that are perfect for landscape photography. Many visitors and creators highlight this time as ideal for capturing breathtaking shots.
+2Beyond the grand vistas, look for interesting details like the winding road leading up the mountain, the textures of the native vegetation, and the play of light and shadow on the hillsides. Even a smartphone camera can capture stunning images here, but for those with more advanced gear, Te Mata Peak offers ample opportunities for creative expression.
+1
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit