Hawke's Bay crafts elegant Chardonnays and bold reds that anchor New Zealand's wine culture. Most estates welcome visitors by appointment, pairing tastings with local food—a relaxed, convivial experience that rewards a leisurely afternoon.
Hawke's Bay has 61 wineries listed on Spill. The number spans everything from small family estates to large-production facilities open to the public.
Most tastings in Hawke's Bay run $15 to $25 per person. Budget visitors can find options at the lower end; the higher-priced experiences generally include more pours, food pairings, or private settings.
Hawke's Bay is best known for Chardonnay, Merlot, Syrah, Sauvignon Blanc, and Cabernet Sauvignon. These varietals appear most frequently across estates in the region and reflect the area's climate and soil conditions.
Most wineries in Hawke's Bay require advance reservations — particularly on weekends. Book at least 2-3 days ahead to guarantee a spot; same-day availability is limited.
Yes. At least 4 wineries in Hawke's Bay are dog-friendly, including Askerne Estate Winery, Clearview Estate, Crab Farm Winery. Most allow dogs on outdoor patios or lawn areas; a few allow them inside. Call ahead to confirm leash requirements.
Yes. At least 27 wineries in Hawke's Bay offer food alongside tastings. Having food while tasting helps you assess wines more accurately and extends the experience — worth seeking out, especially for longer visits.
Yes. At least 6 wineries in Hawke's Bay have a picnic area. Call ahead to confirm outside-food policies — some estates allow you to bring your own provisions, others have restrictions. Arrive early on weekends for the best spots.
Yes. At least 7 wineries in Hawke's Bay are family-friendly, including Askerne Estate Winery, Te Awanga Estate, Unison Vineyard. These estates typically have outdoor space and a relaxed atmosphere suited to visitors with children.
Yes. At least 15 wineries in Hawke's Bay have outdoor seating. Availability is weather-dependent — the best outdoor tasting experiences are typically April through October.
Yes. At least 9 wineries in Hawke's Bay offer vineyard tours. Tour spots typically fill before standard tasting reservations — book your tour and tasting together when you reserve.
