Activities in Location

Hawke's Bay is home to the famous and unique Cape Kidnappers Golf Course (rated as one of the top golf courses in the world) and a leisurely drive from Frimley Lodge Motel. Other courses, such as Bridge Pa and Napier Golf Club (the oldest golf club in the Hawkes Bay) are popular choices amongst guests and are only 15 minutes away. Why not try mini golf and putt putt with the family. There are also golf driving ranges for the enthusiast honing their skills.

Make the Art Deco Trust your first stop to find out more about the devastating 1931 earthquake and the rebuild of the city of Napier in the style of the times – Art Deco. There are daily guided walks and vintage car tours for you to explore the history and stories behind our fascinating region.

From live performances and cultural celebrations to inspiring workshops and community events, there's always something to enjoy at Toitoi.

Te Mata Peak, behind Havelock North, gives 360° views of Hawke's Bay. Visitors can see Napier and Mahia Peninsula to the north and east, hill country to the south and east, and the Ruahine, Kaweka and Maungaharuru ranges beyond the fertile Heretaunga Plains. Mount Ruapehu is often visible in the distance.

Discover an exciting world above and below the water at the National Aquarium of New Zealand. Visit Penguin Cove and watch the Little Penguins feed and play. See stingrays, kingfish, hapuku, snapper, kahawai and other majestic native species swimming over you in the 1.5 million litre oceanarium tunnel.

Cape Kidnappers is the largest most accessible mainland gannet colony in the world. The 20,000 gannets at the Cape are members of the Booby family, with distinctive black eye markings and a pale gold crown. Gannet Safaris has been guiding visitors over Cape Kidnappers for in excess of 50 years. It is the only tour which drives you to within metres of the remarkable gannets – no walking is required.

Hastings is home to many spectacular vineyards, cellar doors and wineries, all offering world-class wine and award-winning chefs plating up culinary delights. From Elephant Hill, Clearview Estate and Te Awanga Estate on the stunning coast, and many inland favourites including in the renowned Bridge Pa and Gimblett Gravels winegrowing districts, you'll have your pick of the bunch. Or, why not try them all? One thing we know for sure: wine lovers will be in heaven.

If you are an avid angler then Hawke's Bay is a must-stop destination for fly fishing. Fishermen have claimed it as "New Zealand's best kept secret" Large Rainbows, cunning feisty Browns and numerous rivers to fly fish, all within an hours drive of your accommodation, along with high hook ups and plenty of action means you'll have loads of fun and success.

Experience some of New Zealand's best rafting on the fantastic Mohaka River in Hawke's Bay. The Mohaka River offers rafting enthusiasts of all skill levels a great day out on the water, with Grade 2, 3 and 5 rapids providing gentle cruises through to heart-pumping thrill rides. You'll get the best rafting experience amongst some of New Zealand's most stunning scenery.

Within walking distance of the motel is a Coffee Club. There are also all the major fast-food outlets and takeaway restaurants a short stroll around the corner on Heretaunga Street. For fine dining there is Vidal Winery (Hastings) and The Old Church (Meannee). For a winery restaurant have a look at Black Barn or Elephant Hill.