A Leisurely Agenda in Hawke's Bay
If you’re looking for a destination where you can easily combine business with pleasure, sunny Hawke’s
Bay has to be high on the agenda. The Mediterranean climate, world-class wineries, gourmet cuisine and art deco treasures have turned tourism into a top 10 earner for the region, and that means delegates are spoilt for choice when it comes to R&R.
Back in 1931, the Hawke’s Bay Earthquake levelled Napier and its sister city of Hastings in two and a half short minutes, but the art deco gems that arose from their ashes continue to be a major drawcard for visitors. The growing tourism industry, combined with Napier’s busy port and a diverse local business base, have seen the Hawke’s Bay region contributing significant export dollars to New Zealand’s economy.
While agriculture, horticulture, forestry and viticulture still underpin the region's economy, investment by small manufacturers has seen the emergence of innovative electronics, technology and engineering sectors, and a rapid growth in finance and business services. The re
gion enjoys well established road and rail links, making it readily accessible for most travellers. Nearly two thirds of New Zealand’s population lies within a 450km radius of Napier and Hastings, and the busy Hawkes’ Bay Regional Airport, just a 10 minute drive from Napier, provides a fast link to the rest of the country.
Not surprisingly, the conference market is a growing one, boosted by the region’s outstanding lifestyle opportunities. With very little effort, delegates can be in the conference room one minute, and dining among the vines at an award-winning winery the next. Many of the vineyards, including Church Road, Brookfields, Esk Valley, Mission Estate, Crossroads and Sacred Hill are within easy reach of Napier’s city centre, and if you 
fancy a spot of teambuilding adventure, you can take your pick from fishing, kayaking, windsurfing, jetboating, parasailing, golfing, ballooning and skydiving.
In downtown Napier, after hours attractions include the National Aquarium of New Zealand and the Hawke’s Bay Museum, along with the city’s famous art deco gems. You can check them out on one of the daily art deco walking tours that leave from the Napier Information Centre.
Useful Information
Images courtesy of 'Hawke's Bay Incorporated'