Harvest season – known in the industry as vintage is celebrated from February to April in Hawke’s Bay. This is when the region’s vineyards are at their most active, grapes are picked at peak ripeness, and the foundations of future wines are laid. For visitors, it’s one of the most engaging and beautiful times to experience New Zealand’s oldest wine region and a Great Wine Capital of the world.
Wine Harvest Celebrations
Harvest begins with the early-ripening varieties, in some years as early as January, and builds toward long days and sometimes nights in both the vineyard and winery. Whilst harvest is a busy and demanding time for those picking grapes, it’s also the time when many visitors are in region due to the hot, sunny weather and summer events programme.
Wineries make the most of this peak tourism period with extended cellar-door hours, behind-the-scenes winery tours offering insight into fermentation and blending or tastings that pair seasonal produce with new releases and past vintages.
The Meaning of Harvest in Hawke’s Bay
Wine harvest holds cultural, historical, and economic significance. Hawke’s Bay has been producing wine for over 175 years, and harvest remains a defining moment for growers, winemakers, and local communities. It reflects deep connections to the land and climate, while economically supporting employment, exports, and tourism. For Māori, the seasonal rhythms of harvest align with traditional values of kaitiakitanga—guardianship of the land.
Tips for Visitors and Trade Partners
For first-time visitors, booking accommodation, tastings, dining choices and transport early is essential, as demand is high during vintage. Stay in Napier, Hastings or Havelock North and book a tour to visit any or all of the winery sub-regions such as Gimblett Gravels and Bridge Pa, Havelock Hills or Te Awanga, The distances between the regions aren’t large, and you can even jump on a bike and enjoy the lush landscape and the sight of the teams working hard to hand pick the season’s finest grapes.
For group travel planners, vintage season offers premium opportunities. Small-group formats work best, with private tastings, hosted vineyard lunches, and flexible itineraries that adapt to harvest schedules.
Wine harvest in Hawke’s Bay is more than a moment—it’s the start of a new vintage and a celebration of place and community.