Tours Napier

Treat yourself to a delicious day out discovering some of Hawke’s Bay’s most beloved local producers. Combining honey, chocolate, art, gardens, and New Zealand’s iconic real fruit ice cream, this delightful small-group experience is the perfect way to explore the sweeter side of the region.

Travel through the beautiful Hawke’s Bay countryside with your friendly local guide as you visit a handpicked collection of artisan attractions, meeting passionate local producers and tasting some of the region’s finest treats along the way.

Our first stop is Arataki Honey, home to one of New Zealand’s most recognised honey brands. Enjoy a fascinating and interactive experience as you learn about the remarkable world of bees, see a live hive in action, and sample a range of delicious honeys, from delicate clover varieties to world-famous mānuka honey.

Next, indulge your sweet tooth at Silky Oak Chocolates. Here you'll enjoy a tasting selection of handcrafted chocolates while watching the chocolatiers at work through the factory viewing windows. You'll also have time to explore the unique Chocolate Thru’ the Ages Museum, where 3,000 years of chocolate history comes to life through fascinating displays and exhibits.

We then visit the charming Birdwoods Gallery, a true Hawke’s Bay favourite. Set amongst beautiful gardens and sculptures, Birdwoods offers a unique blend of art, creativity, and countryside charm. Browse the gallery, explore the grounds, visit the nostalgic sweet shop, or simply relax and soak up the atmosphere.

To finish the day, we visit the iconic Strawberry Patch, a much-loved local institution famous for its fresh produce and legendary real fruit ice creams. Here you'll enjoy a true Kiwi classic as fresh seasonal berries are blended on the spot with creamy vanilla ice cream or yoghurt to create a refreshing treat bursting with natural flavour.

Throughout the journey, enjoy stunning rural scenery, local stories, and the warm hospitality that makes Hawke’s Bay such a special destination.

Tour Highlights

• Interactive honey tasting experience at Arataki Honey
• Sample a range of New Zealand honeys, including mānuka honey
• Handcrafted chocolate tasting at Silky Oak Chocolates
• Admission to the Chocolate Thru’ the Ages Museum
• Visit the beautiful Birdwoods Gallery and Sculpture Garden
• Enjoy a famous New Zealand real fruit ice cream at The Strawberry Patch
• Scenic countryside drive through Hawke’s Bay
• Relaxed small-group experience with a knowledgeable local guide

Important Information

• This is a small-group tour designed for a more personal and enjoyable experience
• Pick-up and drop-off from Napier are included
• Alternative start times and private customisations may be available when booking directly through the Mates Travel website
• This tour requires a minimum number of guests to operate. If minimum numbers are not met, we may reschedule the tour or provide a full refund.