Our Ultimate Guide: Things To Do in Hawke’s Bay in Winter

Where to Stay: Porters Boutique Hotel

Located in the heart of Havelock North, Porters Boutique Hotel serves as the perfect home base for exploring the breadth of what Hawke’s Bay has to offer in winter.
Our rooms are designed for maximum comfort, featuring thoughtful amenities that cater to your winter stay. Guests have complimentary access to Flex Fitness gym and can enjoy exceptional dining Malo, at our on-site restaurant, which emphasises fresh, local ingredients in its seasonal winter menu.
At Porters, it’s our personalised service that truly stands out. We take pride in helping guests explore the best of Hawke’s Bay, from wine tours to dining reservations.

Experience all that Hawke’s Bay has to offer during the winter season with Porters Boutique Hotel.

Where to Eat Breakfast: Maina

Start your day at Maina. Just around the corner, it’s our favourite local breakfast spot. Maina uses their own house blend of locally roasted Hawthorne Coffee, which is simply the best way to start a winter’s day in Hawke’s Bay! Their breakfast menu features freshly baked pastries as well as hearty cooked options, all enjoyed in a cosy and welcoming setting.

Where to Eat Lunch: Puketapu Hotel

For lunch, head to the Puketapu Hotel, a beloved local landmark that blends classic pub fare with a gourmet twist. Dining here supports the community’s resilience in rebuilding after the significant impact of Cyclone Gabrielle. With a warm, inviting atmosphere perfect for a midday meal, the Puketapu Hotel serves both traditional pub dishes made from locally-sourced ingredients. We love their famous Puketapu Burger, or try one of the daily specials, which feature the best of Hawke’s Bay produce.

Where to Eat Dinner: Central Fire Station Bistro

Dinner at the Central Fire Station Bistro is an experience not to be missed. The restaurant’s name references the beautifully converted 1930s Napier fire station where it’s located. Head Chef, Sam Clark, and his team are passionate about farm-to-table philosophy, incorporating fresh, seasonal local ingredients into every dish. Whether it’s their signature lamb dish or the fresh seafood plate of the day, every meal is an incredible representation of local flavours and culinary craftsmanship.

Where to Taste: De La Terre Winery

Step into the world of boutique winemaking at De La Terre. Located off the beaten path, the tasting room and café at De La Terre have been built by owners Kate and Tony, quite literally, from the ground up. Tony’s quirky enthusiasm and extensive viticultural knowledge make every tasting innately personalised, always informative, and always engaging. You will leave with a deeper appreciation for the art of winemaking. Make sure you give Gracie a pat from us!