East Coast
The Hawkes Bay region is located in the central ‘fish hook’ of the North Island’s East Coast. The landscape is diverse and dramatic, with north-facing ranges running down to expansive alluvial plains that stretch out to meet the large curved coastline.
The region is one of New Zealand’s oldest for grape growing and the second largest, with vineyards concentrated around the urban centres of Hastings and Napier. Ancient river beds provide free-draining soil terraces perfect for low vigour vineyard sites that allow a diverse range of varieties to flourish.
Climate
Hawkes Bay's has long, hot summers and cool winters offer an ideal climate for grape growing. The region has around 2,198 hours of sunshine in an average year and the average annual rainfall is 803 mm
Grape Varietals
The region offers myriad soil types and a long, dry growing season ideal of ripening a wide range of grape varietals. Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot are the major grape varietals planted across the region.
