Top 5 Ways to Play in the Bay
Mark Johnson was born and breed in Hawke’s Bay and returned 6 years ago from overseas to run the family business. Here are some examples of what Mark and his family and friends like to do when they have a day to play in Hawke’s Bay!
Crab Farm
Unlike most wineries Crab Farm is a relaxed, almost bohemian, experience bordering somewhere between cool vineyard and nice student flat! Crab Farm offers great value food and wine in the pleasant company of the knowing locals. A great spot in any season for a long Sunday lunch, either beside the roaring fire or outside on the sun soaked terrace.
Karunga Gardens
Every second Sunday you can find plenty of excited families enjoying the train rides though these picturesque undulating gardens. Kids enjoy the tunnels, viaducts, station and steam trains, while Dads enjoy entertaining the family for a $1 throw! Stop off at Pipi for a pizza on the way home to round off a great family day.
Provedore Restaurant & Bar
An oasis amongst the booze barns in the Ahuriri ‘Entertainment Zone’, Provedore is where you will find the best beer and wine list in the Bay. Fresh, locally sourced great value tapas and meals. Plus the friendless and best looking bar staff in town! All topped off with the local ‘in crowd’ of Napier and some great tunes.
Ocean Spa
A relaxing soaking spot for families but equally rewarding for couples or groups. Pools of various sizes and temperatures located right on the beach at Marine Parade – sit back and relax in the spa and look out at Cape Kidnappers while planning your evening out.
Church Rd > Mission Estate > Old Church
The ideal Bay afternoon starts with a lunchtime Hawke’s Bay Cuisine Platter under the trees at Church Rd Winery. Grab a bottle of Chardonnay from the cellar door after the short informative tour. From here, 500m along Church Rd, is the Mission Estate Winery. Taste and soak up the elegant atmosphere of NZ’s oldest winery overlooking the rows of vines. Head back to the unique Colonial Lodge Motel to regroup and refresh with a dip in the heated swimming pool or spa or a simple lie-down in the shade. Then, just 5 minutes away is the spectacular Old Church Restaurant where nothing has been left to chance – the food and the ‘old church’ makeover must been seen to be believed. Back to the comfort of the motel to round off a classic Bay Day!
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