Explore Hastings on a Budget
In the heart of the sunny Hawke’s Bay region of the North Island, Hastings is definitely one for the itinerary! While its neighbouring city, Napier, gets all the attention, Hastings is actually the most-inhabited city and you’ll definitely find a lot more cheap and free things to do in Hastings than in Napier!
So if you’re travelling in Hawke’s Bay on a budget, definitely consider making Hastings your base! It’s the closest city to the main Hawke’s Bay natural attractions, like Te Mata Peak and Cape Kidnappers, while having a few priceless surprises that you’ll be glad to discover.
To keep the costs down further in Hastings, consider staying in one of the 10 Best Backpacker Hostels in Napier and Hastings or other accommodations listed in our Budget Accommodation Guide to Hastings. Plus, add to your itinerary with our 10 Awesome Things to Do in Hastings.
Table of Contents
1. Get on Top of Te Mata Peak – FREE
This is one you simply cannot miss in Hastings! Drive to the summit of Te Mata Peak (rising 399 m or 1,309 ft above the plains), or pick one of seven walking loops starting from the Main Gates or Tauroa Road car parks.
The trails range from the easy 1.3 km (0.8 mi) Pīwakawaka Loop to longer climbs through native bush, open ridgelines and the impressive Big Redwoods grove.
From the top, you’ll catch panoramic views stretching across Hastings, Napier, Hawke Bay and the coastline between Māhia and Cape Kidnappers.
The most photogenic times to visit are sunset and sunrise (6 am and 8 pm daylight saving time).
Location: 12 km (7 mi) southeast of Hastings via Te Mata Peak Road.
© Hawke’s Bay Tourism2. See the Gannets at Cape Kidnappers – FREE
While seeing the world’s largest mainland gannet colony is a breathtaking experience, a trip to Cape Kidnappers is about more than just the birds.
The walk to Cape Kidnappers along the beach reveals mighty geological giants in vertical cliffs filled with fossils, fault lines and gullies. All of which have been formed between 300,000 and 4.5 million years ago!
At the end of Cape Kidnappers, you’ll encounter the majestic gannets. The best time to see the gannets is between early October and late April.
The walk takes 5-6 hours return and can only be done at low tide. Be aware that the cliffs are prone to landslips and rockfalls.
Location: 19 km (12 mi) east of Hastings. Take State Highway 2 then turn onto Mill Road just after Clive. Continue toward Clifton where the walk starts along the beach.
© NZPocketGuide.com3. Visit Havelock North Village – FREE
The attractive village of Havelock North is only a 5-minute drive from Hastings! Nestled at the foot of Te Mata Peak, this compact village is packed with boutique shops, galleries, cafés and restaurants.
Browsing the independent fashion stores, homeware shops and speciality food retailers costs nothing, while the walkable centre makes it easy to explore on foot.
Families can stop at the Village Green, where the large modern playground provides a free break for children.
You can also follow part of the Havelock North Walking Heritage Trail or simply wander the leafy streets and admire the village’s attractive architecture.
While dining and shopping will add to your budget, soaking up the relaxed atmosphere is completely free.
Location: 5 km (3 mi) east of Hastings down Havelock Road.
© Ulrich Lange on Wikipedia4. Check Out the Hawke’s Bay Farmers’ Market – FREE
Regarded as one of New Zealand’s longest-running farmers’ markets, the Hawke’s Bay Farmers’ Market is a must-do. What’s more, entry is free, with lots of local goods to browse and the chance to chat directly with growers and producers.
Everything sold at the market is grown, raised or produced in Hawke’s Bay, from seasonal fruit and vegetables to artisan bread, meat, cheese, honey, preserves and ready-to-eat treats.
It’s definitely a place you can afford to treat yourself here and there. Check it out every Sunday from 8:30 am to 12:30 pm, rain or shine.
Location: Waikoko Gardens, Tōmoana Showgrounds, Hastings.
© NZPocketGuide.com5. Cycle the Hawke’s Bay Cycle Trails – FREE
Of course, this is only a free activity if you have your own bike, but for those of you that do, you’ve hit the jackpot with the wealth of cycle trails in the Hawke’s Bay region! The network spans nearly 200 km (124 mi) of mostly off-road paths and forms one of New Zealand’s Great Rides.
Choose from three themed routes: the “Landscapes Ride”, “Water Ride” and “Wineries Ride”. Around Hastings, the Wineries Ride is particularly appealing, weaving through the vineyards and cellar doors of the Bridge Pa Triangle and Gimblett Gravels. You can tackle just a short section or design a longer day trip through orchards, river corridors and neighbouring settlements.
Get a full guide to cycling in Hawke’s Bay and Hastings in our Mountain Biking in Hawke’s Bay.
Location: All around Hastings. Pick up a cycle map from the local information centres.
© Hawke's Bay Tourism6. Go On a Self-guided Spanish Mission & Art Deco Tour – FREE
That’s right, Napier might be taking the limelight when it comes to Art Deco architecture, but did you know that Hastings actually has more of these buildings in its city centre?
Following the 1931 Hawke’s Bay earthquake, Hastings was extensively rebuilt during the 1930s, leaving behind an impressive collection of Art Deco, Spanish Mission and Stripped Classical buildings.
Pick up a self-guided walk brochure from the Hastings information centre or download the Hastings Deco Walk or Central Hastings Heritage Walk maps from the council.
The route begins near the Hastings Clock Tower and takes around two to three hours, guiding you past decorative façades, curved parapets and geometric motifs that tell the story of the city’s 1930s redesign.
Look above the modern shopfronts along Heretaunga Street to spot many of the finest original architectural details.
Location: Hastings city centre.
© Ulrich Lange on Wikipedia7. Go to the Hastings City Night Market – FREE
If you can’t make it to one of the other markets we’ve mentioned already, then don’t worry! Hastings is full of them, including the Hastings City Night Market.
Held every Thursday between 5 pm and 9 pm, the vibrant night market is alive with musicians and street performers among rows and rows of fresh produce stalls, artisan stalls, art stalls and amazing ethnic street food.
Location: 100 Heretaunga Street West.
© CrashesToAshes on Wikipedia8. See Maraetotara Falls – FREE
Who doesn’t love a good waterfall? If you haven’t seen enough waterfalls in New Zealand, then make sure you head to Maraetotara Falls, a favourite swimming spot in the Hastings District. A short drive through the countryside beyond Havelock North brings you to this scenic cascade.
From the roadside parking area, wooden steps and a 10-minute forest walk lead you to the base of the waterfall. The river tumbles over a rocky ledge into a deep pool surrounded by native bush, creating an attractive spot for photography, picnicking or cooling off on a warm day.
You can also explore part of the longer Maraetotara Historic Walk, which follows the river downstream to see the old Havelock North Power Station (knocked out by a lightning surge in 1941).
Location: 21 km (13 mi) southeast of Hastings. Maraetotara Road.
© itravelNZ® on Flickr9. Do Some Wine Tasting – CHEAP
The great thing about Hastings and the Hawke’s Bay region is that there are over 70 wineries! More than 30 cellar doors operate across the region, with several within an easy drive of Hastings in the Gimblett Gravels, Bridge Pa Triangle and Te Awanga wine districts.
Wine tasting need only be the price of a tasting flight (providing an affordable way to sample several wines without purchasing full glasses or bottles), and many cellar doors offer complimentary tastings.
Try handcrafted wines in the relaxed indoor or outdoor setting at Unison Vineyard, explore Hawke’s Bay syrah and chardonnay at Trinity Hill, or pair a tasting with lunch at Clearview Estate.
Sample a wide selection of wines, from chardonnay to full-bodied reds, without needing to book an expensive guided tour.
Location: Bridge Pa is 9 km (6 mi) from Hastings, Gimblett Gravel is 10 km from Hastings, and Te Awanga is 16 km (10 mi) from Hastings.
© NZPocketGuide.com10. Walk and Birdwatch at the Pekapeka Wetlands – FREE
One of Hawke’s Bay’s few remaining large freshwater wetlands, Pekapeka Regional Park provides vital habitat for an array of native bird and plant life.
Public pathways and boardwalks lead through the central visitor area, while a short climb takes you to a lookout with panoramic views across the wetland and Poukawa Valley.
Keep watch for pūkeko, grey teal, New Zealand shoveler, dabchick and other wetland birds among the raupō and open water. If you’re lucky, you might even spot rare species like the Australasian bittern, although sightings aren’t guaranteed.
Information panels along the way give insight into the local Māori history of the area.
Location: State Highway 2, 16 km (10 miles) south of Hastings.
© Rudolph89 on Wikipedia11. Stroll Around Frimley Park – FREE
Hastings has a number of parks to enjoy, whether you want to go somewhere pretty for a stroll, find somewhere outside to hang out, or somewhere to get some exercise. Frimley Park is an excellent choice with its collection of over 5,500 roses in the formal rose garden (you’ll spot the seasonal blooms throughout the warmer months).
The park features mature trees creating shaded paths, plus sports fields, a petanque court and open lawns for casual games.
Families will find a playground for the kids, while picnic tables are scattered throughout if you fancy bringing lunch.
The mix of established gardens and recreational space means you can drop in for a quick 10-minute walk or settle in for a relaxed afternoon outdoors.
Location: Frimley Park, Frimley.
© NZPocketGuide.com12. Check Out Cornwall Park – FREE
Speaking of parks, another one to spend some time in is Cornwall Park! Cornwall Park is the oldest park in Hastings, gifted in 1901, and now spreads across 8 ha (20 acres) of gardens, lawns and playgrounds.
Wander among the historic trees and visit the formal rose garden, or find peace in the Osmanthus Chinese Garden, created to celebrate Hastings’ relationship with its sister city of Guilin.
The kids can tackle the large playground featuring a 10 m (33 ft) climbing tower, rope bridges, slides, mini-trampolines, swings and a splash pad.
You’ll also find picnic tables, ponds, a stream and the John Holt Memorial Display House (plus public toilets for those essential pit stops).
Location: Cornwall Park, Roberts Street.
© NZPocketGuide.com13. Hop On the Keirunga Park Railway – CHEAP
Whether you’re travelling with kids or just a plain old train enthusiast, don’t miss the Keirunga Park Railway!
Jump on board the miniature carriages pulled by a miniature steam locomotive and travel through the 846 m (2,776 ft) track that winds through Keirunga Gardens in Havelock North. The railway passes tunnels, viaducts, rock faces and landscaped parkland along the way.
Public running days are generally held on the first and third Sunday of each month from 11 am to 4 pm (weather permitting). Individual rides cost only a few dollars, and children under two travel free, so this activity definitely earns its place on this list of free and cheap things to do in Hastings!
Location: 7 km (4 mi) southeast of Hastings. Keirunga Gardens, Havelock North.
© Elliott Brown on Flickr14. Taste Honey and Learn About the Honeybee at the Arataki Honey Visitor Centre – FREE
If you have shopped in any New Zealand supermarket, then no doubt you will have seen Arataki Honey on the shelves! The Arataki Honey Visitor Centre offers free interactive displays that explain how bees live, pollinate crops and produce honey. Watch the colony at work through observation hives and search for the queen bee.
You can dress up as a beekeeper for photos, while children will enjoy the family-friendly activities on offer.
Taste a selection of New Zealand honeys including mānuka and comb honey. The shop sells honey, skincare products and factory specials, though there’s no obligation to purchase anything.
The Visitor Centre is free and normally open daily from 9 am to 5 pm.
Location: 8 km (5 mi) southeast of Hastings. Arataki Road near Havelock North.
© NZPocketGuide.com15. Pet the Animals at the Hawke’s Bay Farmyard Zoo – CHEAP
Hawke’s Bay is packed with activities for kids, and a highlight that’s kind on the wallet too is the Hawke’s Bay Farmyard Zoo. Walk among pigs, sheep, calves, lambs, horses and other friendly farm residents in this working-style farm setting.
You can purchase food to hand-feed the animals, while optional extras include pony rides and trips aboard the Farmyard Express Train.
The large play area and pirate ship will keep the little ones entertained for hours; barbecue areas and picnic facilities make it easy to settle in for a proper family day out.
The zoo opens from 10 am to 5 pm daily, weather permitting.
Location: 13 km (8 mi) east of Hastings. East Road, Haumoana.
© NZPocketGuide.com16. Visit Te Whare Toi o Heretaunga Hastings Art Gallery – FREE
To get your dose of art and culture, visit Te Whare Toi o Heretaunga Hastings Art Gallery in Hastings city centre. Rather than maintaining a permanent collection, the free-entry public gallery focuses on temporary exhibitions featuring both local and international contemporary artists.
The programme spans painting, photography, sculpture, installation and multimedia art, complemented by artist talks, workshops and creative activities for children and families.
It’s an easy cultural stop that gives repeat visitors something new to discover throughout the year (and a reliable indoor option when the weather turns).
The gallery sits beside Hastings War Memorial Library in Civic Square, so you can combine your visit with Ngā Pou o Heretaunga (see below) and the surrounding public spaces.
Location: Nelson Street.
© Tony Hisgett on Wikipedia17. See the Ngā Pou O Heretaunga – FREE
Standing proudly in Civic Square, Ngā Pou O Heretaunga is a remarkable collection of carved ancestral posts.
Each of the original 18 pou tūpuna represents an ancestor from the local marae (Māori meeting ground) of the Hastings district, with each carving facing towards the marae it represents.
Information panels explain the genealogy, stories and connections associated with each carving. A further pou gifted from Rarotonga represents the longstanding relationship between Ngāti Kahungunu, Tākitimu and the wider Pacific.
The restored pou returned to Civic Square in 2025, making this free outdoor installation a particularly meaningful place to appreciate Māori carving and cultural connections.
Location: Civic Square.
© Tony Hisgett on Wikipedia18. Watch a Movie at the Focal Point Cinema – CHEAP
For an affordable afternoon or evening out, Focal Point Cinema in Havelock North shows current blockbusters, independent films and family-friendly movies across three intimate theatres.
The boutique cinema setting feels cosier than a large multiplex, and you can grab coffee, wine or snacks at the licensed café before your screening.
Regular promotions and senior sessions can make a visit even more affordable (though ticket prices vary by film and session). Cinema tickets are around NZ$13 per adult.
Location: 11 Joll Road, Havelock North.
© Tony Hisgett on Wikipedia19. Explore Haumoana and Te Awanga – CHEAP
Take a coastal drive to these two laid-back seaside villages between Hastings and Cape Kidnappers.
Haumoana and Te Awanga are ideal spots for spending time beside the beach, watching surfers or enjoying a picnic with views across Hawke Bay.
The “Hawke’s Bay Trails Landscapes Ride” passes through both communities, so cyclists can follow the coast from the Clive River towards Clifton with regular views of Cape Kidnappers.
Te Awanga Domain provides picnic tables, a playground and beachfront access. Swimming conditions vary with the swell and weather, so check the sea before entering and supervise children carefully.
Even without swimming, the coastal scenery and relaxed village atmosphere make this an enjoyable free outing.
Location: Haumoana and Te Awanga, approximately 14-20 km (9-12 mi) east of Hastings along the Hawke Bay coast.
© Hawke’s Bay Tourism20. Take a Trip to Napier – FREE
When you’ve done all the cheap and free things to do in Hastings, it’s time to hit Napier just a 20-minute drive north or a quick bus trip on the InterCity. There are even bus services running between the two cities to keep the costs to a minimum.
Once you arrive, stroll the 3 km (1.9 mi) Marine Parade promenade along the waterfront, where you’ll pass gardens, public art and uninterrupted views across Hawke Bay.
Continue into the city centre to admire the colourful Art Deco architecture created after the 1931 earthquake; Emerson Street and Tennyson Street showcase some of the finest façades.
Exploring these sights is completely free if you’ve got your own transport (though paid guided tours and self-guided booklets are available if you want the historical details).
For a full list, check out our guide to 15 Free or Cheap Things to Do in Napier.
Location: 21 km (13 mi) north of Hastings via State Highway 2.
© Hawke’s Bay TourismMore About Free and Cheap Things to Do in Hastings
That’s it for our guide to free and cheap things to do in Hastings; for more information about Hawke’s Bay, check out the following articles:
- Top 10 Natural Attractions in Hawke’s Bay
- 10 Beautiful Beaches in Hawke’s Bay
- 10 Hawke’s Bay Must-Dos
Finally, if there’s anything we’ve missed, you’re likely to find it in our Comprehensive Hawke’s Bay and Napier Guides.
Sources:
The information in this guide has been compiled from our extensive research, travel and experiences across New Zealand and the South Pacific, accumulated over more than a decade of numerous visits to each destination. Additional sources for this guide include the following:
- Tourism New Zealand (General travel advice - Updated [2025])
- Adventure Mark (Health and Safety Audit - Updated [2025])
- Work Safe NZ (Adventure Activities Guidelines - Updated [2025])
- Department of Conservation (Tracks, hikes, campsites and more - Updated [2025])
- AdventureSmart (Know before you go - Update [2025])
- NZ Māori Tourism (Official Māori Tourism platform - Updated [2025])
- Tourism Export Council New Zealand (Tourism trade association - Updated [2025])
- TIA (Independent tourism association - Updated [2025])
- Tiaki Promise (Care for people place and culture - Updated [2025])
- Council websites and freedom camping maps (Local travel advice region by region - Updated [2025])
Our editorial standards: At NZ Pocket Guide, we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure accurate and quality content.
