Activities – Hastings, New Zealand

Splash Planet Theme Park in Hastings is New Zealand's largest water park! There's something to do for everyone at Splash Planet. As well as thrill-seeking rides, there is mini-golf, the Fantasyland Express train, Formula Fun Go-karts, beach volleyball and bumper boats. And when the kids need a break, there is plenty of food, BBQs and tables with shade to chill out.

Pask was first to plant vines at Gimblett Road, founding the world-renowned Hawke's Bay wine-growing district, now known as the Gimblett Gravels.

Hot summer days, a long growing season and free-draining soils have helped Hawke's Bay become one of the premier wine regions in New Zealand. Anthony Joseph Vidal, a young emigrant from Spain, was one of the first winemakers to appreciate the natural potential of the area. He established Vidal Estate in 1905 and his spirit of adventure coupled with a lifelong commitment to crafting classic, elegant wines remains an inspiration to this day.

Stables is an acclaimed wine producer located in the Bridge Pa Triangle, west of Hastings. Visitors to the historic racing stables can taste premium wines in a timeless environment.

On Yer Bike Winery Tours offers a fun cycling experience and the opportunity for you to enjoy tasting some of Hawke's Bay's finest wines and food in the superb scenery of the Gimblett Gravels and Bridge Pa Triangle wine-growing regions.

Pekapeka Regional Park is a great place to discover and learn more about wetlands – why they are essential to our environment and the interesting wildlife that thrive in them. This 4.5km long and 800m wide wetland covers 98 hectares. Public access is to a central area of the wetland where you can explore pathways and boardwalks, and walk up to the lookout for a panoramic view of the valley. It's an ideal park to explore with the family but because of the wildlife, this park is not suitable for dogs.

Waimārama is one of the most popular coastal resorts in the country. Its long stretches of sandy beach are ideal for walking, jogging, swimming, surfing and fishing. It has mobile phone coverage and a general store (which does fantastic fish and chips).