Taste Hawke's Bay - A Sweet treat food Tour

Napier , New Zealand

Taste Hawke's Bay - A Sweet treat food Tour

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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Satisfy your sweet tooth and embark on a delightful journey through the charming Hawke’s Bay countryside, celebrated for its artisanal producers and irresistible treats. With your friendly local guide leading the way, you’ll discover the best of the region’s honey, chocolate, and fresh fruit ice cream on an unforgettable foodie adventure, which is perfect for the whole family.

- Pick up & drop off from Napier.
- Comfortable transport with a friendly local guide
- Guided honey tasting and interactive experience at Arataki Honey
- Selection of 3 handcrafted chocolates per person at Silky Oaks
- Expert explanation of the chocolate-making process at Silky Oak
- Self-guided admission to the Chocolate Thru’ the Ages Museum
- Visit to a local gem where we will taste freshly made, New Zealand real fruit ice cream
- Stunning Hawke’s Bay countryside views along the journey

We cater to cruise passengers and can adjust departure time to work with the ship's arrival.

Available options

Taste Hawke's Bay - A Sweet treat food Tour

What's included

Private transportation

Air-conditioned vehicle

Tastings at Silky oaks Chocolates, one real fruit Ice-cream.

Detailed itinerary

Step into a chocolate lover’s dream at Silky Oak Chocolates. You’ll enjoy a selection of handcrafted chocolates, served in Silky Oaks boutique factory shop. As you savour each bite, a knowledgeable guide will share the chocolate-making process while you watch the factory action through the viewing windows.

After tasting, explore the fascinating Chocolate Thru’ the Ages Museum, where you’ll journey through 3,000 years of chocolate history – from ancient Aztec traditions to modern-day treats. This self-guided museum is the only comprehensive chocolate museum in the Southern Hemisphere and a hidden gem of Hawke’s Bay.

Discover the world of New Zealand’s most famous honey at Arataki Honey. Enjoy a friendly meet-and-greet with their knowledgeable staff, who’ll share the fascinating story of how bees create liquid gold. Step into the interactive visitor centre to see a live hive in action and sample a delicious range of honeys – from smooth clover to powerful manuka. It’s an experience that’s equal parts educational and sweet, perfect for all ages.

We will take you to a Kiwi gem to Experience a true Kiwi classic, real fruit ice cream — a refreshing swirl of creamy vanilla ice cream or yoghurt blended on the spot with fresh seasonal berries or fruit. This beloved New Zealand treat bursts with natural fruit flavours and is the perfect way to cool down while savouring the taste of our local produce. Location will be decided when we finalise your tour but will be Napier, Hastings or Havelock North depending on season and opening hours.

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

The National Aquarium is located along Marine Parade in Napier. Your guide will be waiting for you by the van. The Van will be marked Mates Travel and will be parked at the meeting point at least 15 minutes before departure

Cruise passengers, take the free shuttle bus from the port to the aquarium.

Important notes

Please show your ticket to your driver/guide

About Napier

Napier is a vibrant city known for its Art Deco architecture, a result of the 1931 earthquake that led to a complete rebuild. It offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, with access to the Pacific Ocean and the scenic Hawke's Bay region. The city is famous for its wine, art, and marine life, making it a compelling destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

Art Deco Walk

A self-guided walking tour showcasing Napier's iconic Art Deco architecture, a result of the 1931 earthquake.

Historical 1-2 hours Free (guided tours cost around $25)

Marine Parade

A scenic waterfront promenade with beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean and Hawke's Bay.

Beach 1-2 hours Free

Hawke's Bay Museum & Art Gallery

A renowned museum showcasing the history, art, and culture of Hawke's Bay.

Museum 1-2 hours Around $10

Napier Aquarium

A small but fascinating aquarium featuring a variety of marine life from the Pacific Ocean.

Nature 1 hour Around $10

Te Mata Peak

A scenic viewpoint offering panoramic views of Hawke's Bay and the surrounding countryside.

Nature 1-2 hours Free (parking fee applies)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Fresh Seafood

Napier is famous for its fresh seafood, including crayfish, paua (abalone), and oysters.

Lunch/Dinner Seafood is a staple, but vegetarian and vegan options are available in many restaurants.

Hawke's Bay Wine

The region is known for its excellent wines, particularly Sauvignon Blanc and Syrah.

Drink Wine tastings are available at many local vineyards.

Art Deco Cupcakes

A local specialty, these cupcakes are decorated in Art Deco style.

Dessert Vegetarian and gluten-free options available.

Popular Activities

Hiking Kayaking Surfing Wine tasting Spa treatments Beach lounging Art Deco tours Museum visits

Best Time to Visit

December to February

This is the summer season, with long, sunny days perfect for outdoor activities and beach visits. It's the peak tourist season, so expect crowded attractions and higher prices.

20-25°C 68-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English, Maori
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

New Zealand Dollar (NZD)

Time Zone

GMT+12

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Napier is a safe city with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Use reputable tour operators
• Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help

Getting there

By air

Hawke's Bay Airport • 5 km from city center

By train

Napier Railway Station

By bus

Napier Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable and convenient for getting around. Buses are frequent and reliable.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Local taxi apps

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Ahuriri Tarewa Marewa

Day trips

Hastings

20 km from Napier • Half day

Hastings is a charming city known for its fruit orchards, wineries, and the annual Art Deco Festival.

Cape Kidnappers

30 km from Napier • Full day

Cape Kidnappers is a stunning coastal area known for its gannet colony and scenic views.

Havelock North

15 km from Napier • Half day

Havelock North is a picturesque village known for its wine region, local markets, and scenic beauty.

Festivals

Art Deco Festival • February Hawke's Bay Wine & Food Festival • November Hawke's Bay Farmers' Market • Sundays, year-round

Pro tips

Visit the Hawke's Bay Museum & Art Gallery for a deeper understanding of the region's history and culture
Take a guided Art Deco tour to learn about the city's unique architecture and history
Explore the local wine region with a self-guided or guided wine tour
Visit the Napier Market on weekends for fresh produce, local crafts, and food stalls
Take a day trip to Cape Kidnappers to see the gannet colony and enjoy stunning coastal views