The Best Hotels in Hastings, New Zealand

This romantic boutique, on the eastern outskirts of Hastings, occupies a historic homestead surrounded by orchards and sculpted gardens. Start the day with a swim followed by yoga or a spot of tennis, before vineyard-hopping by bike until you reach Te Mata Estate Winery. Later, high tea in the hotel awaits – though you might want to save your appetite for a bespoke five-course meal instead.

Hidden away in the Tuki Tuki Hills, this group-friendly accommodation overlooks organic vineyards and olive groves – and on a clear day, the Pacific Ocean. Choose from swish Haumoana House, which sleeps eight, or the villas, which sleep four – either way you’ll find local art adorning the walls, high-end Kiwi-designed furniture, broad verandas and a shared pool. Hastings and Napier are a 20-minute drive away; don’t miss dinner at nearby coastal winery Elephant Hill.

A stay at McHardy Lodge serves up wonders spanning three centuries. The home itself dates to the 1890s, an era reflected in the six elegant rooms – some of which feature roll-top baths. The nearby Napier art deco architecture is some of the best in the world, while 21st-century culinary delights have put Hawke’s Bay on the map. Treat your taste buds at Hastings farmer’s market, and stock up on locally sourced food and wine.

Want a room that’s fit for a monarch? Queen Elizabeth II stayed at this very hotel – in what is now named the Royal Suite – during her 1953 coronation tour. But that is just one highlight of the long and dramatic history of the Masonic, one of the best hotels in Hastings. Drop your bags in your colourful sea-view room and learn more about the past of Napier on a guided tour operated by the neighbouring Art Deco Trust.

Don’t be fooled by the humble name: while this hilltop lodge is indeed part of a working farm (you can even shear sheep if you’re so inclined), expect rustic-luxe suites, a tranquil spa and wine cellar. Between hot tub sessions and cosy evenings by the fire, don your boots to explore the craggy coastline – the peninsula is home to the largest gannet colony in the world.

This crescent-shaped hotel hugs the Napier coastline, making the most of the beachfront location with floor-to-ceiling windows. Part of the Scenic Hotel Group, it doesn’t have quite as much personality as the smaller hotels of Hawke’s Bay, but it makes up for it with comfortable rooms and a prime location. Art deco Tennyson Street is a short walk away, and the community art gallery next door is worth a browse.

Road tripping? Set the satnav to this motel on the outskirts of Havelock North, where you’ll find budget-friendly apartments, a small saltwater swimming pool and hire bikes – ideal for exploring the nearby vineyards and off-road trails. On blue-sky days, drive 20 minutes to Ocean Beach, a vast stretch of golden sand backed by rugged cliffs, and bring a surfboard if that’s your thing.

Stylish, secluded and super fun – this bright blue art deco home, between Hastings and Napier, can be rented in its entirety, or room by room. Hire a bike from friendly hosts Emma and Colin, and cycle southwest to reach a clutch of wineries (Trinity Hill has a beautiful tasting room), bringing a bottle home to enjoy in the hot tub or mini cinema, which is shared with Meadowood glampers.

Smack-bang in the centre of Hastings, these clean, basic studios and apartments are convenient, whether you’re travelling with a car or not it’s one of the best hotels in Hastings. Wander into town, passing through Civic Square – where you’ll find Hastings City Art Gallery and an open-air collection of Maori carvings (pou) representing important regional Maori ancestors – before stopping for burgers and beers at local favourite, Common Room.