Martinbourough/Hawke's Bay

[Loztralia]

Morning all, I'm looking for some advice from Kiwi experts if any are prepared to give it. I'm planning a trip to Wellington early next year, and as part of that I'm contemplating the following diversion: brunch and a couple of Martinborough wineries on a Sunday, then a drive up to Napier for Sunday evening and overnight. Then lunch and a couple of wineries in Hawke's Bay on the Monday and back to Wellington.

I've got a few questions about this:
- I know it's a fair old trek from Wellington to Napier (about four hours?) but is this itinerary feasible? Is there anywhere worth stopping off at between the two (apart from Martinborough)?
- Given that we'll want to have at least some time to explore Napier we're probably only going to be able to drop in at a couple of wineries in both regions. Ata Rangi is a definite in Martinborough, and I assume Te Mata is a Hawke's Bay must. But where else would people say shouldn't be missed? (bear in mind we'll be in Hawke's Bay on a Monday so opening times have to be considered).
- Are there any recommendations for eating options in Martinborough and Napier, and for accommodation in the latter?
- What about sightseeing options in Hawke's Bay and Napier?

Thanks in advance for any guidance you can give!

[Craig(NZ)]

I've got a few questions about this:
- I know it's a fair old trek from Wellington to Napier (about four hours?) but is this itinerary feasible? Is there anywhere worth stopping off at between the two (apart from Martinborough)?

A bit of a detour to the coast but Castle Point is *awesome* scenery and experience. Head out from Masterton. Would make for a very long day though adding this on. Greytown also for brunch/ coffee some nice cafes there. If you want a little exercise and weather is good a walk to the trig at the top of the rimutaka hill as you drive between wellington and waiarapa is awesome. Its only about 15 minutes up

- Given that we'll want to have at least some time to explore Napier we're probably only going to be able to drop in at a couple of wineries in both regions. Ata Rangi is a definite in Martinborough, and I assume Te Mata is a Hawke's Bay must. But where else would people say shouldn't be missed? (bear in mind we'll be in Hawke's Bay on a Monday so opening times have to be considered).

Ata Rangi. Watch opening times though they are limited. If going to Te MAta then Craggy Range is just around the corner and a must visit. Wines open for tasting there can be a bit hit and miss. Other wineries which are interesting (considering experience and wine quality) are Unison, Stonecroft, Mission

- Are there any recommendations for eating options in Martinborough and Napier, and for accommodation in the latter?

Not up with Martinborough but Hawkes Bay...In Havelock North Wine Country Motor Lodge is near Te Mata is modern comfy and reasonable price. In town Te Pania hotel is good but usually trouble with booking - it books out v early on key weekends. Eatwise do Terrior at Craggy Range if you dont mind spending a bit or Clearview winery for a more med rustic experience.

- What about sightseeing options in Hawke's Bay and Napier?

I love Waimarama beach which is about 25mins drive from Craggy Range, Drive up Te Mata Peak for great views and Eastpier pub on the North SHore if its a warm day for a cold beer on the deck and a sea breeze. Also a poke around the boat harbour is interesting. Also Napier foreshore.

[via collins]

Loz,

I'm greatly envious of you. The treats that lie ahead are bloody marvellous.

I missed Ata Rangi by 2 mins last year, but then we had a splendid time at Palliser Estate, so all was good after all. I'll take Craig's advice about clock watching next time, he's right.

If you can possibly add a day in there, there's so much in the Hawke's Bay region, feels like you might be a little rushed. The view from the Craggy Range cellar door has haunted me for a year now - must be one of the best in the world. And I'd love to spend more time cruising the area, the peak road etc. Can thoroughly recommend Clearview for eating, tasting, atmosphere. I've bought some of their 2009 Old Olive Block blend cause I reckon it tastes like nectar. It seems that the HB 09 reds are going to be incredible, so you're sure heading there at the right time.

Look forward to reading your travel notes.

[Peter NZ]

A couple more suggestions in bold.

I've got a few questions about this:
- I know it's a fair old trek from Wellington to Napier (about four hours?) but is this itinerary feasible? Is there anywhere worth stopping off at between the two (apart from Martinborough)?

A bit of a detour to the coast but Castle Point is *awesome* scenery and experience. Head out from Masterton. Would make for a very long day though adding this on. Greytown also for brunch/ coffee some nice cafes there. If you want a little exercise and weather is good a walk to the trig at the top of the rimutaka hill as you drive between wellington and waiarapa is awesome. Its only about 15 minutes up

- Given that we'll want to have at least some time to explore Napier we're probably only going to be able to drop in at a couple of wineries in both regions. Ata Rangi is a definite in Martinborough, and I assume Te Mata is a Hawke's Bay must. But where else would people say shouldn't be missed? (bear in mind we'll be in Hawke's Bay on a Monday so opening times have to be considered).

Ata Rangi. Watch opening times though they are limited. If going to Te MAta then Craggy Range is just around the corner and a must visit. Wines open for tasting there can be a bit hit and miss. Other wineries which are interesting (considering experience and wine quality) are Unison, Stonecroft, Mission

For Martinborough, Palliser & Martinborough Estate are worth a visit. Escarpment doesn't have a cellar door, but may accommodate you by appointment -- highly recommended if you can get in. Also had an interesting visit to Cambridge Road last time we were there (email in advance to check whether they'll be open).

For Hawkes Bay, I'd add Clearview & Church Road as possibilities -- generally pretty well the full range open for tasting at Clearview, with some very good wine.

- Are there any recommendations for eating options in Martinborough and Napier, and for accommodation in the latter?

Not up with Martinborough but Hawkes Bay...In Havelock North Wine Country Motor Lodge is near Te Mata is modern comfy and reasonable price. In town Te Pania hotel is good but usually trouble with booking - it books out v early on key weekends. Eatwise do Terrior at Craggy Range if you dont mind spending a bit or Clearview winery for a more med rustic experience.

A very good food option for Hawkes Bay is Pacifica in Napier. Pricy, but some of the best food in NZ, & an excellent wine list. I understand Vidals in Hastings (which also generally has some decent wine open for tasting) has improved over the past few months, in which case it's also a decent prospect.

- What about sightseeing options in Hawke's Bay and Napier?

I love Waimarama beach which is about 25mins drive from Craggy Range, Drive up Te Mata Peak for great views and Eastpier pub on the North SHore if its a warm day for a cold beer on the deck and a sea breeze. Also a poke around the boat harbour is interesting. Also Napier foreshore.

[Loztralia]

Thanks very much for these. It's true that the trip is too short but we only have a long weekend in Wellington (arrive Friday morning, leave early Tuesday) so I'm afraid it's inevitable.

[burgster]

Try the drive from Te Mata to Craggy Range and over the hill to Clearview. Very nice and covers some diverse wineries.