They say Hawke’s Bay can be summed up in two words… wine country. But, on closer inspection, there is much more to enjoy here than an excellent Syrah or Sauvignon Blanc (although that might suffice for some). The warm, dry climate is also conducive to a number of outdoor activities including cycling, walking the forest trails of the Ruahine and Kaweka Forest Parks, getting up close and personal with the largest gannet colony in the world at the scenic sandstone headland of Cape Kidnappers, or heading up to Te Mata Peak for panoramic views of the entire area. For a wind down, pop into the Chocolate History Museum or stroll the streets of Napier – the town boasts phenomenal Art Deco architecture.