Heretaunga has beautiful areas of significance
bring your whanau and experience the breath taking views
like Te Mata Peak and Cape Kidnappers, while having a few priceless surprises that you’ll be glad to discover.
This is one you simply cannot miss in Hastings! Either drive up Te Mata Peak or take one of the five walking tracks through the bush onto the open hilltop. From here, you’ll get sensational views of the Tuki Tuki River Valley, the coast and the Kaweka Ranges. The most photogenic times to visit are sunset and sunrise (6am and 8pm daylight saving time).
Location: 12km (7 miles) southeast of Hastings via Te Mata Peak Road.
While seeing the world’s largest mainland gannet colony is a breathtaking experience, a trip to Cape Kidnappers is about more than just the birds. The walk to Cape Kidnappers along the beach reveals mighty geological giants in vertical cliffs filled with fossils, fault lines and gullies. All of which have been formed between 300,000 and 4.5 million years ago! At the end of Cape Kidnappers, you’ll encounter the majestic gannets. The best time to see the gannets is between early October and late April. The walk takes 5-6 hours return and can only be done at low tide. Be aware that the cliffs are prone to landslips and rockfalls.
Location: 19km (12 miles) east of Hastings. Take State Highway 2 then turn onto Mill Road just after Clive. Continue toward Clifton where the walk starts along the beach.
Who doesn’t love a good waterfall? Make sure you head to Maraetotara Falls on the beautiful Maraetotara Falls bush walk. The short walk takes you through native forest to a cascading waterfall or follow the walk downstream to see the old Havelock North Power Station, which was taken out by a lightning surge in 1941.
Location: 21km (13 miles) southeast of Hastings. Maraetotara Road.
Believed to be one of the oldest wetlands in New Zealand, formed around 9600BC, the Peka Peka Wetlands are part of an ancient peat swamp and providing vital habitat for an array of native bird and plant life. Usethe network of boardwalks and pathways to explore the wetlands, looking out for unusual wildlife along the way. Information panels also give a lot of insight into the local Maori history of the area.
Location: 16km (10 miles) south of Hastings. State Highway 2.
A public open-air art piece you can’t miss is the Nga Pou O Heretaunga! Wander among 18 Maori carvings, each representing an ancestor from the local area. Each ancestor is facing its marae (Maori meeting ground), while the whole piece is positioned to form the constellation of Matariki (Matariki is a star constellation that represents the Maori New Year).
Location: Civic Square.
Visit Ōtātara Pā Historic Reserve
Located in the outskirts of Taradale, Ōtātara Pā Historic Reserve includes one of the largest pā complexes in New Zealand. Uncover the riveting Maori history and see the remains of terraces, dwelling sites and food storage pits that once supported a lively community. The pā complex was seen as a strategic advantage, thanks to its expansive views of Hawke’s Bay’s plains and its access to natural resources.
Ōtātara Pā (photo by Suden Lakshmanan)
Mana Ake