Havelock North

Escape with the family to the heart of Havelock North

Delicious cuisine and boutique shopping for the adults? Check! Space for the kids to run and play and be entertained? Double check!

Havelock North continues to prove itself as a destination where families can absolutely get the best of both worlds.

Stay

As any parent knows, practical and comfortable accommodation is critical to ensuring a family break that is enjoyed by all. Thankfully, you can’t go wrong with the options in Havelock North.

Te Mata Lodge is a classic accommodation providers to suit the whole family. With kitchen amenities an added bonus for those constant snack requests, the Village centre is on your doorstep.

If you’re after a little more space for the kids to roam, Endsleigh Cottages are a great option with four cottages to choose from, ensuring your needs are well and truly met.

For hotel accommodation, Porters Boutique Hotel is right in the heart of the Village with easy access to cafes, restaurants, shops and the Village Green playground.

Eat

Keeping energy levels high and kids well fed is another crucial element to a successful family holiday and knowing where to dine is your best armour in preventing h-anger fueled meltdowns.

If in doubt, look for the pink and find Pipi Café. This local institution serves incredible Italian inspired fare, filled with fresh Hawke’s Bay ingredients. St Martha and Mon are trendy cafés in the Village and favourites for locals.

Evening meals are well spent with the family in Havelock North. If you’re looking for something a little special – but with cuisine that will appeal to the kids as well – head along to Malo, where honest food is done extremely well. For something a little more casual, you can’t go past Giant Brewing that does bistro-style fare and relaxed dining to perfection.

Play

Free honey tastings and an opportunity to see live bees in action is a winning combination, so a visit to Arataki Honey is a must. Kids will love the interactive display and the chance to find the queen bee herself. Keirunga Gardens is a great spot to run around any time of the year, but particularly on the first and third Sundays of the month. That's when, weather permitting, it comes alive with sights, sounds, smell and excitement of the miniature railway.

Of course, no list is complete without extolling the many virtues of the magnificent Te Mata Peak. With family-friendly walking trails, mountain bike tracks, a glorious view from the summit, and perhaps even the promise of a cold drink and bowl of fries from the excellent Peak House restaurant on your descent, what's not to love?

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