Agricultural business is the foundation of the Hawke’s Bay regional economy
Agricultural activities extend the length of this fertile region. Hawkes Bay agriculture and food processing together drive the regional economy and account for a third of regional GDP, indirectly it is considerably more.
The region is dominated by sheep and beef farming, and Hastings is known as New Zealand's premier pipfruit and summerfruit producer. Crops have diversified over recent years to include olives, saffron, sprouts, peppers, and limes.
The hot dry summers of the region make it a premium grape growing and wine making region, notably for Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon wines.
Forestry and logging, centred around Napier, is significant in the region making up almost 3% of regional GDP, with downstream wood and paper processors accounting for a further 3%.