Nestled between rolling vineyards and the Pacific’s edge, Hawke’s Bay’s quietest coastal enclave offers a rare taste of unscripted New Zealand.

While standard itineraries drift toward the art deco heritage of Napier or the grand estates of Havelock North, Te Awanga remains blissfully off the main trail. This slow-paced coastal enclave moves to the rhythm of breaking ocean swell and rustling vines.

Here, salt spray meets boutique winemaking. You can spend the morning cycling along the coastline to the gannet colonies of Cape Kidnappers, spend the afternoon sampling low-intervention wines at casual cellars right near the shoreline, and end the day with local seafood as the Pacific sky fades into dusk. Te Awanga isn’t about rushed sightseeing; it is an invitation to pause, unwind and discover Hawke’s Bay at its most authentic and grounded.

Flying High

For more than 60 years, Gannet Safaris Overland has been taking visitors to the world-famous Cape Kidnappers Gannet Colony – home to the largest and most accessible mainland gannet colony in the world. Named seventh in the world in 2026 by TripAdvisor for a family friendly activity, this is one of Aotearoa’s most extraordinary wildlife experiences.

You will start at the picturesque coastal village of Te Awanga before travelling across the spectacular Cape Kidnappers Station and through New Zealand’s largest privately owned wildlife sanctuary. Along the way, their passionate local guides bring Hawke’s Bay to life with stories of its rich history, Māori heritage, farming traditions and remarkable wildlife, while panoramic 360-degree views unfold at every turn.

At the colony, you’ll find yourself just metres from thousands of magnificent Australasian gannets (tākapu).

Watch these graceful seabirds, with their striking golden crowns, piercing blue eyes and impressive two-metre wingspans as they nest, court and care for their chicks in one of nature’s most captivating spectacles.

Operating daily from mid-August to late April, Gannet Safaris Overland also offers unforgettable Sunrise Tours and the Ultimate Hawke’s Bay Day Out experience, combining wildlife, award-winning wineries and iconic sightseeing into one exceptional experience. gannetsafaris.co.nz

Coastal Calm

Tucked away in this seaside village, Te Awanga Cottages are a place where guests can truly slow down and savour the simple pleasures. Surrounded by vineyards, coastline and the laid-back charm that makes this corner of Hawke’s Bay so special, the cottages offer an escape that feels both luxurious and wonderfully unhurried. Thoughtfully designed, each cottage invites you to settle in, whether that’s curling up beside the cosy gas fire on a crisp winter evening or spending long summer days following the sunshine between the front and back decks. Outdoor dining, quiet moments with a book and relaxed afternoons are all part of the experience. One of the cottages’ most memorable features is the unique bathing room, where doors can be opened wide to create an indoor-outdoor sanctuary. Nature is right on the doorstep, with the friendly kākā introduced to Cape Sanctuary now making regular visits to the cottages. There are around a dozen of these beautiful native parrots stopping by to enjoy the nectar in the surrounding trees. Adventure is also on the doorstep with the Hawke’s Bay Trails starting from the cottages and winding along the coast and through the vineyards. Guests can hire the cottages’ e-bikes and explore at their own pace. teawangacottages.co.nz

Sanctuary for the Soul

Set against the dramatic backdrop of Cape Kidnappers, Hygge embodies the Danish art of living well. Just a stone’s throw from the ocean – and serving as a welcome oasis at the end of the coastal cycle trail – this light-filled sanctuary is designed for pausing, refuelling and simply being present in the moment.

Whether curled up by the roaring indoor fire on a cool afternoon or lingering under shaded olive trees with a chilled glass of local rosé, the experience is effortless. The kitchen celebrates Hawke’s Bay’s bountiful produce with ethically sourced, vibrant dishes paired with organic fair-trade coffee, regional wines and artisanal platters. Spanning sunny garden spots to versatile function spaces, Hygge isn’t merely a place to dine; it is a warm, peaceful invitation to slow down and find your bliss. hyggeatcliftonbay.nz

 

Your Local Meeting Point

More than a pitstop for coffee, this seaside trailer has spent a decade brewing a deep sense of local community and connection.

When Brown Dog first opened its doors in March 2016, the vision was straightforward: build a space where people could gather, eat well and feel a genuine sense of belonging. Nestled in the heart of Te Awanga – with coastal cycling trails, ocean swells and Cape Kidnappers right on its doorstep – it quickly became the village’s official meeting point.

Over the past decade, it has evolved into a beloved sanctuary for early morning surfers, passing cyclists, day-tripping families and golf enthusiasts alike. The soul of Brown Dog however, lies in its locals. It’s where milestones are celebrated and friendships have been forged over a hot espresso. True to the words etched on their trailer, coffee here isn’t just a drink – it’s community.