Waipawa, located in the Hawke's Bay region of New Zealand, offers a vibrant food and drink scene that caters to various tastes and preferences. The area is known for its excellent produce, with stone fruits such as Golden Queen peaches, yellow fleshed nectarines, apricots, and Black Doris plums readily available during summer. Fresh berries, including raspberries, strawberries, and blueberries, are also popular seasonal delights. During autumn, visitors can enjoy locally harvested apples and pears. Foraging for truffles and mushrooms adds to the culinary experience during winter months. The region boasts over thirty cellar doors and restaurants scattered across Napier, Havelock, Hastings, Bridge Pa, and Te Awanga areas.
Some notable establishments include Crab Farm Winery, which features sharing platters, venison, and seafood dishes accompanied by live music, and Mission Estate, New Zealand's oldest winery, offering unique culinary experiences and often hosting international music concerts. Pacifica Restaurant provides multi-award winning fine dining experiences with a five-course degustation menu that changes daily and requires advance booking. Mangapapa Kitchen focuses on 'paddock to plate' philosophy and offers the Trust the Chef five-course dining experience featuring local produce. Craggy Range Restaurant presents an exquisite menu paired with their finest wines and serene vineyard views. In Waipawa itself, there are several unique eateries to explore. Paper Mulberry Cafe is a popular choice for those seeking a cozy cafe experience. Waipawa Bakehouse Café, also known as "Mumma G's," is a must-visit spot for its funky atmosphere and baked goods.
Local produce can be found at Black Barn Kitchen, where products are sourced within a 20-kilometer radius. Specialty condiments like olive oil and hemp seed dukkah from Telegraph Oil, saffron and lime dressing from St Andrews Limes, and handcrafted chocolates from Silky Oak Chocolates are also available for purchase. The annual Food and Wine Classic event is another highlight of the region, taking place in June and November. With its diverse offerings, Waipawa provides visitors with a rich food and drink scene that showcases the best of New Zealand's culinary delights.