The picturesque landscape of Hawke’s Bay, known for its rich wine culture, celebrates this crucial period with a variety of festivals and events in the lead up to, and following, harvest. Not only do these festivals serve as a prelude to the hard work of grape picking, but they also highlight the region’s deep connection to the world of viticulture. Harvest Hawke’s Bay Food and Wine Celebration kicks off the season with a celebration of the region’s food and wine along the banks of the spectacular Tuki Tuki River. Celebrating wine and gastronomy from across the full breadth of the region at the end of November, this is one of the last chances for many winemakers to be out in person, sharing their wine before heading back to the vineyards for the annual harvest.
As the Chardonnay grapes are getting ready to be picked from the vines, Hawke’s Bay celebrates with one of the most eagerly awaited harvest events, the Bridge Pa Wine Festival. Running each year in late January, this festival is a tribute to winemaking heritage of the Bridge Pa Triangle, a unique sub region within Hawke’s Bay, which was once a riverbed and is now home to free draining, red metal soils. The triangle is renowned for producing award-winning Syrah, Chardonnay and Bordeaux Blends.
By March, as the final red varietals are brought through the winery doors, the region’s premium food and wine festival – F.A.W.C! Summer Series – is on hand to close out the harvest season. Summer F.A.W.C! offers a range of culinary and wine experiences in picturesque locations, from inland vineyards to the stunning coast. Featuring the leading chefs from across the region, country and the globe, as well as special wine tasting experiences, F.A.W.C! is a cornerstone of the New Zealand food and wine calendar.
Visitors from around the globe travel through New Zealand over the summer months enjoying the festival season in Hawke’s Bay and many stay on to provided the much needed labour to assist with this busy time of the year. Harvest time in Hawke’s Bay is a testament to the profound connection between people and the region’s world-renowned vineyards. Grapes are picked with a spirit of celebration and an appreciation for the exceptional wines that will soon be crafted from this outstanding New Zealand destination.