Hawke’s Bay, set on the East Coast of the North Island, is widely recognised as New Zealand’s Art Deco capital. Rebuilt in the 1930s, the region still carries that signature glamour, alongside a reputation for producing some of the country’s finest wines. As New Zealand’s leading venue directory, NZ Venues has curated a selection of the region’s standout venues - from iconic wineries to refined event spaces - each chosen for their setting, flexibility and ability to deliver exceptional events.
Resting beside the Tukituki River between Havelock North and Ocean Beach, The River House is a refined villa surrounded by Mediterranean-inspired grounds and vineyard views. With expansive lawns, a courtyard and flexible capacity, it’s ideal for outdoor events and marquee weddings. On-site accommodation for up to 10 guests, plus a pool and large kitchen, makes it perfect for extended stays or multi-day celebrations.
Napier Conferences & Events
A purpose-built venue on Napier’s Marine Parade, Napier Conferences & Events is designed for seamless corporate functions. With eight flexible spaces across two levels, it caters to everything from meetings to gala dinners. Modern AV, on-site catering, and waterfront views combine with a central location just minutes from the airport and CBD.
National Aquarium of NZ
For something truly memorable, the National Aquarium of NZ offers event spaces surrounded by marine life. With an exhibition hall and a smaller function room, it caters to 50–120 guests. Ideal for conferences, cocktail events and seminars, the venue pairs unique backdrops with strong service, flexible catering and central city convenience.
St. George's Restaurant
An award-winning venue just minutes from Havelock North and Hastings, St. George’s combines tranquil surroundings with versatile event spaces. From intimate rooms to vine-covered courtyards and expansive lawns, it accommodates 30–300 guests. With on-site catering and dedicated planning support, it’s a standout for corporate functions and celebrations alike.
Art Deco Masonic Hotel
Located on Napier’s Marine Parade, the Art Deco Masonic Hotel blends heritage charm with modern functionality. Hosting up to 220 guests, it offers tailored packages, on-site accommodation and full event support. Perfect for cocktail events, weddings and corporate functions, the venue is known for its attention to detail and iconic coastal setting.
The Old Church
Just 10 minutes from Napier, The Old Church is a beautifully restored venue featuring high ceilings, chandeliers and three flexible spaces. Hosting up to 175 guests, it suits everything from corporate events to elegant celebrations. With catering, accommodation options and a dedicated team, it delivers a seamless, character-filled event experience.
Cape Estate
Set on a 1000-acre farm overlooking the Hawke’s Bay coastline, Cape Estate offers sweeping views and complete flexibility. The homestead grounds feature a rustic barn, tennis courts and pool, ideal for large-scale events. With accommodation and a trusted supplier network, it’s a strong choice for weddings, retreats and corporate gatherings.
Toitoi
Hawke’s Bay’s premier arts and events centre, Toitoi offers a collection of standout spaces including the Opera House and Functions on Hastings. With capacities up to 979, it caters to events of all scales. Supported by in-house AV, catering and planning services, it’s a versatile, full-service venue in the heart of Hastings.
Oruawharo Homestead
Set among lush gardens and woodlands, Oruawharo Homestead offers exclusive hire in a historic setting. Ideal for weddings and celebrations, the venue features a ballroom, expansive lawns and even an on-site church. With catering, tours and flexible event spaces, it combines heritage charm with a personalised event experience.
Meadowood House
A hidden gem in Hawke’s Bay, Meadowood House blends Art Deco character with boutique accommodation. Surrounded by gardens and orchard, it’s ideal for weddings, launches and private events. From marquee setups to glamping options, the venue offers flexibility, charm and a memorable countryside setting.
Gwavas Garden and Homestead
Set across 20 acres of woodland, Gwavas is a rustic venue with strong natural appeal. With accommodation, a commercial kitchen and AV facilities, it caters to weddings, garden parties and corporate events. Backed by the biodiversity of Puahanui Bush, it delivers a truly immersive Hawke’s Bay experience.
Wallingford
A historic venue dating back to 1853, Wallingford pairs rolling countryside with exceptional food and hospitality. Hosting everything from weddings to corporate events, it’s known for its warm, personal approach. With on-site catering, accommodation and tailored packages, it’s a destination venue that balances tradition and comfort.
Cottages on St Andrews and Lodge on St Georges
These boutique, family-owned retreats offer relaxed, character-filled settings for smaller events. Set on 10 acres, they’re ideal for meetings, retreats and intimate gatherings. With cottages, orchard surroundings and full amenities, they provide a peaceful, self-contained Hawke’s Bay escape.
The Crown Napier
A refined hotel venue just 10 minutes from the airport, The Crown Napier offers multiple event spaces including indoor rooms and a courtyard. Hosting 10–90 guests, it suits smaller corporate events and functions. With modern AV, catering and a dedicated Conference Manager, it delivers a polished, full-service experience.
Backpaddock Lakes
A unique, activity-driven venue, Backpaddock Lakes combines a rustic barn with water-based experiences. Ideal for team-building, weddings and relaxed events, it offers kayaking, paddleboarding and more. With a commercial kitchen and expansive grounds, it’s a standout for fun, interactive events.
The Soundshell
An iconic Art Deco venue built in 1935, The Soundshell is ideal for performances and community events. Located near Marine Parade, it offers a striking outdoor stage with historical significance. Free for non-profit use (with minimal additional costs), it’s a unique and accessible event space in Napier.
Black Barn
With six distinct venues, Black Barn offers unmatched versatility in Hawke’s Bay. From the rustic Olive Shed to the expansive Market Place, it caters to 60–500 guests. Whether intimate or large-scale, each space delivers character, flexibility and a strong connection to the region’s food and wine culture.
Mangapapa Hotel
Located near Havelock North, Mangapapa Hotel offers a peaceful setting for smaller corporate events. Hosting 15–40 guests, it provides private spaces, tailored menus and on-site accommodation. With AV, WiFi and attentive service, it’s ideal for focused, high-quality meetings and retreats.
River Park Event Centre
A purpose-built venue near the Tuki Tuki River, River Park Event Centre is ideal for conferences and smaller events. Hosting up to 70 guests (or more with a marquee), it offers flexible indoor and outdoor options. With catering and a detail-focused team, it delivers a relaxed yet professional event experience.
The Dome
For a luxurious Art Deco setting, The Dome delivers with style. Hosting up to 120 guests, it features elegant spaces, in-house catering and boutique accommodation. From intimate meetings to larger events, it combines high-end design with modern technology in a central Napier location.
Moana Park
Set in the hills of Puketapu, Moana Park is a boutique winery venue ideal for outdoor events. With a large lawn, fire pit and flexible setups, it suits weddings and corporate functions alike. Just minutes from Taradale, it offers a relaxed, scenic setting with strong event support.
CHB Municipal Theatre
Located in Central Hawke’s Bay, this heritage venue combines classic character with modern functionality. Hosting up to 220 guests, it offers both theatre-style and function spaces. With AV, catering and an experienced team, it’s well suited to performances, corporate events and community functions.
Guests can fly directly into Hawke’s Bay Airport (Napier), which is around 10 minutes from Napier CBD and 20–25 minutes from Hastings. For those travelling from Auckland or Wellington, driving is also a popular option, taking approximately 4–5 hours. For larger events, it’s common to arrange group transport or shuttles to move guests between accommodation and venues across the region.
Yes. Many venues, particularly wineries and rural estates, are spread across the region. Organising shuttles or group transport is recommended to ensure guests can move between accommodation and venues safely and efficiently.
Hawke’s Bay is known for its Art Deco architecture, world-class wineries and warm climate. This combination creates a unique setting for events, offering both character-filled urban venues and scenic vineyard or countryside locations.
Yes. Many venues offer accommodation, catering and activities in one location, making the region well-suited for retreats, weddings and multi-day corporate events that combine work with leisure.
