Things To Do
in Havelock North
Havelock North is a charming village located in the Hawke's Bay region of New Zealand. Known for its picturesque setting at the foot of Te Mata Peak, Havelock North offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The village is home to boutique shops, cafes, and wineries, making it a popular destination for food and wine enthusiasts.
With its relaxed atmosphere and close proximity to outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling, Havelock North provides a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.
- "Kia ora" - Hello
- "Haere mai" - Welcome
- "Ka kite" - See you
- "Tēnā koe" - Thank you
- "Māori ora" - Be well
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $250
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $4 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $70 - $120
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $50 - $80
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café. Afterward, explore the scenic walking trails around Te Mata Peak.
Visit a local winery for a guided tour and tasting session. Enjoy a leisurely lunch amidst the vineyards.
Dine at a hillside restaurant with panoramic views. Savor local cuisine while watching the sunset.
Visit the Havelock North Village to appreciate its art galleries and boutique shops. Stop by the local market for fresh produce.
Explore the local history at the Havelock North Museum. Learn about the region's rich heritage and past.
Attend a cultural event or show at a nearby theater. Enjoy the vibrant local arts scene.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic beauty with picturesque landscapes and proximity to nature reserves.
- Strong sense of community and a friendly, small-town atmosphere.
- Access to quality education and healthcare facilities.
- Proximity to Hastings and Hawke's Bay wineries and beaches.
- Pleasant climate with mild winters and warm summers.
- Limited job opportunities compared to larger urban centers.
- Higher cost of living relative to some other regions in New Zealand.
- Potential for tourism-related congestion during peak seasons.
- Limited access to certain amenities and services typical of bigger cities.
- Risk of natural disasters, such as earthquakes and flooding, due to geographical location.
Best Activities in Havelock North
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
A prominent limestone peak offering walking and biking trails, breathtaking views of the Hawke's Bay region, and opportunities for picnicking.
A network of scenic walking and cycling trails that showcase the beautiful landscapes of the Hastings and Hawke's Bay area.
A popular beach destination perfect for swimming, sunbathing, surfing, and enjoying beachside picnics with stunning ocean views.
Explore the wetlands around Havelock North, where you can observe various bird species in their natural habitat while enjoying a peaceful stroll.
An enjoyable outdoor cycling experience at Splash Planet, which has landscaped paths perfect for families and casual cyclists.
Experience the famous vineyards in the surrounding Hawke's Bay region, where you can enjoy outdoor tastings and vineyard tours.
Havelock North has several well-maintained parks ideal for picnics, including various playgrounds and green spaces.
Places to Visit in Havelock North
Visit one of these nice places.
The iconic Te Mata Peak offers stunning panoramic views of the Hawke's Bay region and is a popular spot for photography at sunrise and sunset.
This winery not only provides exceptional wines but also offers breathtaking views of Te Mata Peak and the surrounding countryside, making it a perfect spot for photos.
The charming village and its bustling market offer a picturesque setting for photos, with quaint shops and cafes nestled among beautiful greenery.
Located just outside Havelock North, this lookout point provides fabulous views of the landscape, ideal for capturing the essence of the region.
The scenic Clive River offers tranquil views and great opportunities for nature photography, particularly during the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon.
This reserve features walking trails through native bush and stunning vistas, perfect for wildlife and landscape photography.
This vineyard offers beautiful landscapes and a unique architecture that creates great photo opportunities set among rows of grapevines.
A short drive from Havelock North, this beach provides a stunning coastal backdrop for photography, especially during sunset.
Food in Havelock North
Havelock North Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Tender lamb rack marinated with local herbs, served with creamy kumara puree.
Must-Try!
Freshly caught paua (abalone) blended with herbs and spices, then crisped to perfection.
Indulge in locally-produced manuka honey-infused creamy ice cream, a sweet treat not to be missed.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This vibrant market offers a wide array of fresh produce, gourmet treats, and artisanal goods. Don't miss the delectable street food stalls serving diverse global cuisines.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
New Zealanders value punctuality, so it is important to arrive on time for meetings, social gatherings, and events. Being late can be seen as disrespectful.
New Zealanders generally appreciate personal space and may feel uncomfortable with overly close physical proximity. Maintain a friendly but respectful distance during conversations.
In informal settings, it is common to address people by their first names, even in professional contexts. However, it's still good practice to gauge the situation and follow others' lead regarding formality.
Safety
Tipping in Havelock North
Ensure a smooth experience
In Havelock North, tipping is not a common practice and is generally not expected. Service staff may appreciate a tip for exceptional service, but it is not a standard practice. Instead, many establishments include a service charge in the bill, making tipping largely optional.
Payment methods in Havelock North are diverse, with most businesses accepting card payments, including credit and debit cards. Mobile payment options such as Apple Pay and contactless payments are also widely accepted. Cash is still accepted, but its use has declined in favor of electronic transactions.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (September to November) is a beautiful time to visit Havelock North as the landscape comes alive with blooming flowers and greenery. Temperatures are mild, ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F), making it ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and visiting local wineries. The weather is generally pleasant, with occasional rain.
Summer (December to February) is peak tourist season in Havelock North. Expect warm temperatures, often exceeding 25°C (77°F), perfect for enjoying beaches, festivals, and outdoor events. This is the best time for swimming, sunbathing, and exploring local attractions. However, it can get busy with tourists.
Autumn (March to May) offers a stunning backdrop with changing foliage colors. Temperatures range from 10°C to 22°C (50°F to 72°F). It's a great time for wine tasting as the harvest season takes place. The weather is generally mild and comfortable, with fewer tourists compared to summer.
Winter (June to August) in Havelock North is cooler, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F). While it’s less crowded, this season is perfect for cozy indoor activities, exploring the local arts scene, or enjoying warmer meals at local restaurants. Occasional rain and chilly winds can be expected.
Havelock North at Night
Hiking in Havelock North
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking destination offering stunning views of the Hawke's Bay region, with several walking trails of varying difficulty.
Features beautiful walking tracks that lead to the summit of Craggy Range, providing panoramic views of vineyards and the surrounding area.
A scenic trail through the countryside suitable for hiking and cycling, with various access points for explorers.
A coastal walk that combines beach scenery with natural landscapes, perfect for a leisurely hike.
An easy to moderate hike that leads through native bush with opportunities for bird watching and enjoying nature.
Aiports
How to reach Havelock North by plane.
The nearest airport to Havelock North, located approximately 24 km away.
Also known as Hawke's Bay Airport, it serves both Napier and Hastings, located around 20 km from Havelock North.
Located about 310 km away, it is the largest airport in the lower North Island.
The largest and busiest airport in New Zealand, located approximately 450 km from Havelock North.
Approximately 400 km away, this is one of the major international airports in the South Island.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Havelock North, with a significant population identifying as European or of European descent.
The indigenous people of New Zealand, making up a smaller percentage of the population in Havelock North.
Includes various ethnicities, with a growing presence in Havelock North, particularly from East Asian countries.
Comprises individuals from Pacific Island nations, representing a minority group within the demographic landscape.
Includes individuals who identify with ethnicities not categorized above, reflecting diverse backgrounds.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Rugby is a popular sport in Havelock North, with several local clubs and a strong community involvement in both playing and supporting teams.
Cricket enjoys a significant following in Havelock North, with various clubs and leagues for all ages, contributing to the local sports culture.
Netball is widely played in Havelock North, especially among women and girls, with multiple teams and competitions throughout the season.
Football has a growing presence in Havelock North, with clubs catering to different age groups and skill levels.
Tennis is a popular recreational sport in Havelock North, with local courts and clubs offering social and competitive opportunities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Havelock North.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants and cafes in Havelock North offer creative and delicious vegetarian and vegan dishes, catering to plant-based diets.
Several food establishments in Havelock North provide gluten-free alternatives, ensuring those with dietary restrictions can enjoy a diverse range of cuisine.