Hastings offers a surprising mix of outdoor activities, cultural insights, and wine experiences, making it an excellent destination for varied tours. What makes Hastings particularly appealing is its proximity to well-maintained wine regions and its engaging local history. For example, the Hawkes Bay Wineries Self-Guided Electric Bike Tour stands out because it combines the pleasure of cycling with the chance to explore Hawke’s Bay’s renowned wineries without the hassle of self-driving. We love this experience for its blend of scenic riding, flexible schedule, and included amenities, like the bike, helmet, and route map—plus, the collection of wine purchases during summer. It’s a fun, relaxed way to taste local wines while enjoying fresh air and beautiful countryside.
While Hastings has several options, the best tours cater to different interests and activity levels—whether you’re seeking a leisurely ride through vineyards or a deeper dive into local history. Below, you’ll find a quick overview of the top experiences, each offering something unique.
1. Hawkes Bay Wineries Self-Guided Electric Bike Tour
This self-guided electric bike tour is perfect for those who want to explore Hawke’s Bay’s wineries at their own pace. For around $62.06 per person, you’ll receive an e-bike, helmet, and a detailed route map that guides you along the region’s flat, scenic roads. What makes this tour stand out is its flexibility—you set your own schedule, choosing which wineries to visit and how long to linger.
The e-bike makes cycling easy, even for those with limited fitness or looking to conserve energy for tastings. While tastings are at your own expense, the experience includes collection of wine purchases during summer, making it simple to enjoy your finds without the hassle of carrying bottles. Reviewers consistently praise the well-maintained bikes and the helpful guidance from operator Phil, who ensures riders feel confident on the trails. The reviews are glowing, emphasizing the ease of use, scenic routes, and the ability to sample multiple wineries without feeling rushed.
Bottom Line: This tour offers excellent value for its price, especially if you want the freedom to craft your own wine-tasting adventure surrounded by Hawke’s Bay’s beautiful landscape. Ideal for active travelers who enjoy a bit of independence and fresh air.
2. Hawkes Bay Wineries Self-Guided Bike Tour
At number two, this self-guided bike tour for roughly $40.34 per person offers a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing the core experience. Departing near Hastings, you’ll cycle leisurely through Hawke’s Bay wine country, with complete freedom to stop at as many or as few wineries as you like. The ride is primarily on flat, well-maintained paths, making it accessible to most skill levels.
In summer, wine purchases are collected on your behalf, which simplifies the logistics—no need to worry about how to transport bottles during your ride. While tasting fees are on you, the focus here is on the relaxed pace and scenery, with many riders noting how easy and enjoyable the bikes are to handle. The reviews highlight the proximity to numerous wineries and the scenic beauty of the route, making it a compelling choice for those who prefer a more casual, self-directed experience.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect for travelers on a budget or those who prefer a leisurely exploration without added services or guided commentary. It’s a straightforward way to enjoy Hawke’s Bay’s wine region at your own pace.
3. Discover Hastings Earthquake: Self-Guided Audio Tour
For those interested in a different kind of experience, the Discover Hastings Earthquake: Self-Guided Audio Tour offers a fascinating look into the city’s resilience and history. Priced at $125, this tour lasts about 1 to 3 hours and takes you through key sites affected by the 1931 earthquake, including the Hastings Cenotaph and the historic Hawkes Bay Opera House.
The tour includes a detailed map and an engaging audio guide that shares survivor stories and explains how Hastings was rebuilt after the disaster. It is ideal for history buffs or travelers who wish to understand the region’s past in a more meaningful way. Review comments are limited, but a few mention the emotional depth of the stories and the ease of following the self-guided route.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a compelling historical perspective, perfect for visitors interested in local stories and the resilience of Hastings. It’s more educational than active but provides deep insight into the city’s character.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Hastings
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, activity level, and interests. If you love wine and want the freedom to explore at your own pace, the electric bike tour (link) offers a superb mix of scenery and flexibility. For those looking for a more economical, relaxed ride, the self-guided bike tour presents a straightforward way to sample Hawke’s Bay’s wineries without added costs. Meanwhile, history enthusiasts seeking a meaningful walk through Hastings’ past should consider the Earthquake Audio Tour, which combines storytelling with local landmarks.
Practical tips include booking early in the season (spring or summer) for the best weather and availability. If you’re unsure about cycling, the electric bike option provides that extra push to keep the journey fun and manageable.
Hastings’s tours cater to a range of interests—whether you’re after a scenic wine adventure, a relaxed self-guided ride, or a meaningful historical exploration. For wine lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, the bike tours stand out as top choices, especially the Hawkes Bay Wineries Self-Guided Electric Bike Tour, thanks to its flexibility and high praise from previous travelers. For history buffs, the Hastings Earthquake Audio Tour offers a compelling deep dive into the city’s resilience. Whatever your passion, Hastings has a tour to match your interests—just remember to book early and enjoy the ride.