The Best Holiday Apartments in Hastings, New Zealand

Behind the impressive art deco facade, 47 modern light-filled studios and apartments await you – some have extra-high ceilings and balconies. Elsewhere, there are 50 colourful murals in and around Napier, designed to raise awareness of issues facing the ocean, such as plastic pollution and climate change, and you can see one of these artworks at the rear of the hotel. Don’t miss a walk around the nearby streets and the suburb of Ahuriri to see the others.

This rural outpost, between Hastings and Havelock North, comprises just three homely cottages (one studio, plus two one- and two-bedroom self-contained units) surrounded by apple orchards and rose bushes. Owners Max and Carol are impeccable hosts – on hot days, they may even treat you to some ice cream – and can help you plan your excursions if you can drag yourself away from the pool.

Hosts Rachel and Tony have thought of all the little extras, from generous breakfast supplies (including eggs from their own chickens) to free bike and e-bike hire. The three holiday cottages in Hastings circle a sculpted courtyard garden, and you can use the barbecue and trendy pizza oven. Napier and Havelock North are also an easy drive or cycle away, and a pebble beach is practically on your doorstep.

This historic building, just south of Napier, was originally built in 1863 as a Catholic church and is now a popular events space and wedding venue. But you don’t need to tie the knot to stay in the grand and glitzy on-site villa, which has four double bedrooms, a large sky-lit kitchen made for entertaining groups and an abundance of sparkling chandeliers. Keep things classy with a tour and tasting at Church Road Winery, just a five-minute drive away.

This clutch of one-, two- and three-bedroom cottages are perfect for families and groups, and just a stone’s throw from the food lover’s haven of Havelock North. Save time to enjoy the grounds – exploring the orchards, taking a dip in the heated pool, and meeting pigs, sheep and alpacas at the petting paddock. Don’t miss a trip to the numerous cellar doors and vineyards just east of town, too.

Looking for a romantic retreat? Check into one of the charming rooms at Kalldeen, run by affable owners Lynn and Wayne. There’s a pool and a tennis court on the 4ha (10-acre) plot, and the two chalets set away from the main lodge feature private decks and hot tubs – the perfect spot to share a bottle of wine from the surrounding vineyards. If you’re here on Saturday, take a trip to Hastings farmers’ market, which is one of the best in New Zealand.

Experience life among the vines at this secluded retreat in the Esk Valley near Napier; it features four self-contained one-bedroom suites and a celeb-worthy lodge and villa for larger groups. The suites and lodge have access to the hot tub, pool and uber-stylish lounge. Try the curiously named house wines (glass of Farting Kiwi, anyone?) and head to Mission Estate Winery to sample the fine local cuisine, such as rack of lamb and truffle-cauliflower mash.

Every last detail has been thought of at Lawn Cottages – think generous provisions of milk and bread and free mozzie spray – plus you’re even welcome to pick your own fruit and veg from the garden when it’s in season. When you’re not hanging out in one of the six modern cottages, which are filled with natural light thanks to the sliding patio doors, wander to the nearby beach or drive along the coast to soak up the scenery around Cape Kidnappers peninsula.

This pair of two-bedroom luxury villas overlook acres of grounds in Clive, near the coast. Plump for the larger villa, boasting a fireplace, a second bathroom with a stand-alone bath and a TV nook. Fancy soaking up some of the best scenery (and wine) in the region on two wheels? Look no further than Coastal Wine Cycles – just a five-minute drive towards the coast. The bikes are super comfy California-style cruisers, and the company will happily help you devise the right route for you.