24/09/2026
In May 2023, Hawke's Bay became the 12th Great Wine Capital in the world, joining regions such as Bordeaux, Napa Valley, Mendoza and Adelaide.
Getting in isn't easy, and it isn't guaranteed. Hawke's Bay actually tried once before, back in 2009, but wasn't selected.
This time, it wasn't just about producing great wine. Hawke's Bay had to demonstrate that it was a truly world-class wine destination — from our winegrowing history and industry to wine tourism, education, business and travel, and everything that makes the wider region such a special place to visit.
Hawke's Bay Tourism led the charge, working alongside Hawke's Bay Wine Growers, Hastings District Council, Napier City Council, Hawke's Bay Airport and EIT, supported by New Zealand Winegrowers. It was a mammoth undertaking, taking more than a year of mahi and commitment to get across the line.
We think that the sheer scale of work that went on behind the scenes makes the accolade even more meaningful.
It recognises not just what's in the bottle, but the destination around it — the vineyards, food, hospitality, experiences, knowledge, landscapes, businesses and communities that together make Hawke's Bay what it is.
And here at Lawn Road Retreat, we're lucky enough to be right in the middle of it. One of only 12 Great Wine Capitals in the world.
Not a bad place to gather a group. 🌿🍷
And this October, the story comes full circle. Hawke's Bay is hosting the Great Wine Capitals Annual Conference from 18–22 October 2026, bringing representatives from the world's other Great Wine Capitals to our region. It's an incredible opportunity to showcase, first-hand, the wine, food, people, landscapes and experiences that helped Hawke's Bay earn its place among them.
