Te Mata Peak

Te Mata Peak is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the Hawke's Bay region of New Zealand.

Rising up to 399 meters in the Te Mata Hills, this peak offers stunning views of the surrounding area. The peak is located south of Hastings, and the Hastings suburb of Havelock North is situated at the base of the peak. Visitors can reach the summit of Te Mata Peak via a sealed road, which leads to a popular lookout point. The lookout point offers 360-degree views of the Heretaunga Plains, Hawke's Bay, and Napier. The nature trails on Te Mata Peak are great for hikers and mountain bikers, and there are many trails to choose from. The trails offer beautiful scenery in every direction, and they are relatively easy to walk.

Te Mata Peak is also home to the Craggy Range vineyard and the Tukituki River, which runs beneath the peak. The slopes on the northwestern side of the peak build up gradually, and their height is subject to erosion, with multiple instances of rockfall into the valley below. From the peak, large boulders can be witnessed in the valley as evidence of previous rockfall. Te Mata Peak is a significant landmark in Maori legend, and its full name, Te Mata o Rongokako (The Face of Rongokako), is from a Maori legend that portrayed the hill as the prostrate body of the giant Rongokako. The peak has been protected since 1927 and attracts over 200,000 visitors annually.

In summary, Te Mata Peak is a beautiful and historic destination that offers stunning views of the surrounding area. Visitors can reach the summit via a sealed road and enjoy the nature trails for hiking and mountain biking. The peak is also home to the Craggy Range vineyard and the Tukituki River, and it has significant cultural and historical significance in Maori legend.