Hastings, New Zealand, is a city that offers more than just a charming small-town vibe—it’s a hub for unique tours and experiences that cater to a variety of interests. Whether you’re a wine lover looking to pedal through lush vineyards, a history enthusiast eager to learn about the 1931 earthquake, or simply after a relaxing day exploring at your own pace, Hastings has something to offer. Among the top options, the Hawkes Bay Wineries Self-Guided Electric Bike Tour stands out for its combination of scenic riding and wine tasting, while the Self-Guided Bike Tour provides a more budget-friendly, leisurely exploration. For a dive into local history, the Discover Hastings Earthquake Audio Tour offers a fascinating narrative of resilience and recovery.
If you’re considering which experience fits your trip, keep reading. We’ll walk you through each of these top-rated tours, highlighting what makes them special, who they are best suited for, and how to make the most of your time in Hastings.
Quick Overview: Best Tours & Experiences in Hastings
Our list includes two self-guided bike tours that let you explore Hawke’s Bay’s vineyards at your own pace (Hawkes Bay Wineries Self-Guided Electric Bike Tour, Hawkes Bay Wineries Self-Guided Bike Tour)—both offering flexible, scenic, and wine-filled adventures. The first elevates the experience with an electric bike for easier riding, while the second is a straightforward bike rental option. For history buffs, the Discover Hastings Earthquake Self-Guided Audio Tour provides an engaging story of resilience in the wake of a devastating event.
Below, we’ll explore each tour in detail, helping you decide which experience best suits your interests and travel style.
1. Hawkes Bay Wineries Self-Guided Electric Bike Tour
At number 1, this self-guided electric bike tour offers a smooth ride through Hawke’s Bay’s famous wine country. For around $62, you’ll get an e-bike, helmet, route map, and the convenience of having your wine purchases handled for you (more details here). The tour lasts roughly six hours, giving you plenty of time to explore at your own pace.
What makes this tour truly stand out is the electric pedal assistance, which makes covering flat vineyard roads easy and fun—no need to be a seasoned cyclist. You can choose which wineries to visit, sample wines at your leisure (own expense), and enjoy the beautiful scenery without worrying about driving. The review comments reflect high satisfaction: “The bikes were well maintained and safe,” says one rider, with another adding, “Phil provided maps that gave us plenty of flexibility.”
This tour is ideal for travelers wanting a relaxed, independent wine-tasting experience without the hassle of arranging transportation, especially on warm summer days. Since it includes wine pick-up service during summer, your bag stays light as you cycle.
Bottom Line: Perfect for wine enthusiasts who want independence and comfort, this e-bike tour combines scenic riding with the freedom to craft your own wine-tasting day.
2. Hawkes Bay Wineries Self-Guided Bike Tour
Second on our list is the Self-Guided Bike Tour in Hawke’s Bay, a budget-friendly alternative that costs about $40. This tour grants you a six-hour window to cycle through the region’s flat, picturesque roads, making as many or as few winery stops as you like (see details here).
You’ll rent a bike and receive a route map, with the freedom to set your own pace. In summer, the tour includes the added perk of wine purchase pick-up—no need to carry bottles along your route. Riders highlight the fabulous scenery and easy-to-ride bikes, with one reviewer noting how close the stops are to each other and how accessible the trails are.
This experience is best suited for those who prefer a simple, flexible day of cycling without added features like electric assistance. It’s ideal for casual cyclists, families, or anyone wanting to get a taste of Hawke’s Bay’s vineyards without breaking the bank.
Bottom Line: A straightforward, affordable way to explore Hawke’s Bay’s wineries on your own terms, perfect if you’re comfortable cycling on flat terrain and want flexibility.
3. Discover Hastings Earthquake: Self-Guided Audio Tour
Number 3 takes a different approach: a self-guided audio tour that plunges into Hastings’ past, specifically the devastating 1931 earthquake. For $125, you’ll receive an audio guide and map that lead you through key sites like the Heretaunga Hastings Visitor Information Centre, the Clock Tower, and the Hawkes Bay Opera House (more info here).
This tour offers a rich narrative of resilience, survivor stories, and the rebuilding process. It’s designed for history lovers or those interested in local stories that shaped Hastings today. While the review is limited, the detailed itinerary suggests a thoughtful journey through the city’s scars and recovery. Expect a flexible duration of 1 to 3 hours, depending on how deeply you explore.
If you enjoy audio guides that inform and entertain, this tour provides a meaningful connection to Hastings’ history without the need for a guide or large group. It’s best for travelers who appreciate storytelling and want to learn at their own pace.
Bottom Line: A compelling, inexpensive way to understand Hastings’ resilience after the 1931 earthquake—ideal for history buffs and curious travelers.
How to Choose
When deciding between these experiences, consider your interests and travel style. If you love wine and want an active day outdoors, the Hawkes Bay Wineries Self-Guided Electric Bike Tour offers a luxurious, hands-free ride with tasting options. If you’re on a budget or prefer a more laid-back option, the Self-Guided Bike Tour provides flexibility and simplicity. For those interested in Hastings’ history, the Earthquake Audio Tour immerses you in the city’s story of resilience and rebuilding.
Think about how much cycling you’re comfortable with, your budget, and whether you want a guided storytelling experience or a self-directed adventure. Booking early is recommended, especially in summer when tours tend to be popular.
Final Thoughts
Hastings offers a variety of engaging tours and experiences suited to different interests. For wine lovers who want comfort and flexibility, the electric bike winery tour is hard to beat. For a more economical, relaxed ride, the self-guided bike tour is a great pick. If you prefer cultural history, the Hastings Earthquake Audio Tour provides a compelling look into the city’s past.
Whatever you choose, Hastings invites you to explore its landscapes, stories, and flavors at your own pace. Booking early, especially during peak seasons, ensures you won’t miss out on these memorable experiences.