Though Longlands may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Hawke's Bay Racecourse and Hawke's Bay Opera House.
If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Flaxmere and surrounding area, you can visit Hawke's Bay Racecourse and Hawke's Bay Opera House.
Discover the most popular places to visit in Hastings
Te Mata Peak
9.4/10 (167 reviews)
Te Mata Peak offers breathtaking 360° views across Hawke's Bay, with its ridgeline resembling a sleeping giant in Māori legend. Visit at sunrise or sunset to experience the landscape transformed in golden light.
Hastings' oldest park features historical landmarks, themed gardens including the Osmanthus Chinese Garden, and an award-winning playground with splash pad and climbing tower—perfect for families enjoying outdoor recreation.
Wander through Frimley Park's 'Old English' landscape with over 5,500 roses and rare trees. The inclusive playground and formal gardens create a perfect setting for a refined family picnic among blooming beauty.
New Zealand's only water theme park combines thrilling slides with family-friendly dry attractions. Glide along the Never Ending River or challenge yourself on the Sky Castle Screamer for a perfect summer day out.
This historic racecourse hosts New Zealand's premier Spring Carnival and Hawke's Bay Gold Cup. Enjoy the thunderous excitement of thoroughbred racing while savouring local wines in the elegant viewing areas.
This sports complex features facilities for rugby, swimming, and more. Catch a tournament or let kids enjoy the bike track while you walk the well-maintained grounds.
This 1915 Spanish Mission-style opera house captivates with its opulent Art Nouveau interior and exceptional acoustics. Experience world-class performances in the 979-seat auditorium.
This contemporary art hub showcases leading local and international artists in the heart of Hawke's Bay. Enjoy free entry to diverse exhibitions and interactive programmes that bring modern art to life.
"This Motel was the worst we have ever stayed in, would not go back or tell any one it was a good stay. The room was so small you had no ware to put your cases, the toilet area did not have a light in it, the whole room needs to be painted and remodeled an enlarged. The rates they are charging you should receive a much higher standard, we travel a lot to Hastings every year we will not even think of staying there, the room services were very bad I had to go and ask for some milk and sugar as...
"expensive for the property, clean enough and all ok. but it is old and in need of refit if it wants to keep charging existing rates, would be happy as if it was 50 dollars cheaper per night"
"Had everthing we required for our stay, the only down fall with our stay was the traffic noise especially at night, however that is not the fault of the proprietor. Thanks for the enjoyable stay Camberley Motel."
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Hastings offers a delightful mix of family-friendly activities and adventure pursuits, making it an ideal vacation spot. Visitors can enjoy the thrill of the water park, explore recreational areas, or test their skills at Hastings Adventure Golf. The region also boasts scenic harbour walks, seaside fun, and leisurely strolls, perfect for soaking up the picturesque surroundings. Don't miss the chance to indulge in seaside sightseeing during your stay in this charming Hawke's Bay town.
Shopping
The Hastings City Growers Market offers a vibrant atmosphere for local produce and crafts. Nearby, the Hawke’s Bay Farmers’ Market, just 1.6km away, is perfect for family-friendly shopping. If you're up for a drive, Good Fun Bike Rides, located 8.0km from Hastings, is worth a visit for unique gifts.
Recreation
At Hawke's Bay Regional Sports Park, immerse yourself in a vibrant sports atmosphere with various recreational activities. The Hastings Golf Club, located a short drive away, offers a serene outdoor setting for a round of golf. Meanwhile, Te Mata Trust Park provides a tranquil space for relaxation and wellness amidst nature.
Adventure
Splash Planet offers thrilling water slides and family-friendly attractions, perfect for a day of excitement. Experience the Amazing Maze 'n Maize, where you can navigate through a fun-filled labyrinth. For stunning outdoor scenery, embark on the Cape Brett Walkway, situated 30.6km from Hastings, and enjoy a memorable hike.
Nightlife
Hastings' nightlife is vibrant and welcoming. Enjoy a relaxed evening at the Tomo’s Lounge Bar on Heretaunga Street, featuring a fine selection of wines. For live performances, visit the Common Room, where local musicians create an energetic atmosphere filled with rhythm and laughter.
Find the best attractions in Hastings
Hastings, situated in the Hawke's Bay Region of New Zealand, is an ideal destination for family and adventure holidays. With a rich array of attractions including the old town, local galleries, and the Hastings Museum, visitors can immerse themselves in culture and scenic beauty. The area also offers opportunities to explore the stunning landscapes, enjoy outdoor activities, and engage with the local fishing community, making it a delightful spot for all types of travellers.
Hawke's Bay Opera House: Immerse yourself in the vibrant arts scene at the Hawke's Bay Opera House, a stunning venue that embodies the essence of culture and romance. Experience captivating performances in this beautifully restored historic building, perfect for an evening of entertainment in Hastings.
Frimley Park: Enjoy a leisurely day at Frimley Park, a serene private garden where friendly locals often gather. It's an ideal spot for recreational activities or simply relaxing amidst lush greenery, making it a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle.
Cornwall Park: Discover the charm of Cornwall Park, an urban park designed for families and outdoor enthusiasts. With ample space for picnics and play, it offers a welcoming environment for city dwellers to connect with nature and each other.
Best time to go to Hastings
The best time to visit Hastings is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. January is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. July is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.
Tips to save on your trip to Hastings
Combine your flights, hotels and car rentals on Expedia—bundling can result in significant savings.
Consider traveling to Hastings during the low season (July to September) for more affordable options.
Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Hastings holiday package cost?
Offering excellent value package deals on Expedia, you'll be thrilled with how little a holiday to Hastings costs! Our packages simplify travel planning and maximise your savings.
What are the cheapest months to go to Hastings?
To score cheap Hastings holiday packages, plan your trip outside of peak times like public holidays and major festivals. You'll typically find better availability and lower prices in the off-season or when it's less busy.
How many days is enough for Hastings?
Allow around 2 days for your Hastings holiday in order to discover everything that makes this place special. Explore key neighbourhoods, including Anderson Park and Frimley. Then make a beeline for major sights like Hawke's Bay Opera House and Splash Planet. With a well-organised itinerary, you'll be kept busy with room for some downtime too. Want to venture outside of Hastings? Consider squeezing in a day trip or two.
Is it worth booking a holiday package to Hastings?
Hastings has all the ingredients you need for an amazing trip — bars and pubs, history and culture are just the start. Whether you'd like to check out attractions such as Frimley Park and Te Mata Peak, or venture off the beaten track, there's plenty to explore on your Hastings holiday.
How to find the best Hastings package deals?
Start your search for a Hastings package deal by entering your destination and preferred travel dates under our "Packages" tab. Then select some filters, like "Guest rating" and "Property type," to tailor the results to your exact style. You can also sort by "Package discount" and discover offers that come with big savings. If you don't find the perfect Hastings package deal right away, just tweak your dates and search again. Keep in mind that deals are only available for a limited time, so book early and get your Hastings escape underway.
Is it cheaper to book a Hastings holiday as a package?
You can enjoy significant savings on your next Hastings retreat by booking a customised holiday package. Click on the "Package" heading, then enter your destination and travel dates to browse the best airfares and hotel prices. Bundle everything into a great-value package and you can save hundreds of dollars. Consider adding a rental car and you may score a better deal.
When to book a holiday package to Hastings?
If you've got your Hastings travel dates confirmed, book early to bag some fantastic deals. With Expedia, you can generally reserve some flights up to a year in advance. Prefer spontaneous getaways? Our last-minute deals are great for impromptu escapes.
How to plan a trip to Hastings?
Choose your travel dates: The things you want to do in Hastings and your favourite season can help you decide when to travel.
Set your budget: Factor in expenses like flights, transportation and food when calculating how much to put aside for your trip to Hastings. Then, pick a property that matches your budget, whether that's a low-cost stay or a lavish retreat.
Determine how many days away: Start by listing all the attractions and activities you want to get to in Hastings. Then, estimate how long you'll need at each, as well as any travel time.
Bundle your bookings: With your travel dates in order, you can combine your flights, hotels, car rental and more into a tailored Hastings holiday package.