Central Hastings Heritage Walk West

Loop

The undeniable crown jewel of this walk is the Hastings Clock Tower. Built in 1935, it replaced the original tower that was destroyed in the 1931 earthquake. It stands as a proud symbol of the city's endurance. If you time your start right, you’ll hear the chimes—a sound that was deeply missed by locals in the years following the disaster.

One of the standout architectural features of the West walk is the prevalence of the Spanish Mission style. Keep an eye out for the distinctive curved parapets, arched windows, and those beautiful pastel hues. The Westermans Building is a particular highlight; it is widely considered one of the finest examples of Art Deco in the region and currently houses a fantastic cafe (more on that later!).

For the art lovers, the various civic sculptures along the route provide excellent photo opportunities. These pieces often celebrate the region’s agricultural roots and Māori heritage, providing a contemporary contrast to the historic facades. The way the light hits the decorative motifs on the upper storeys of the buildings—especially the intricate floral and geometric Art Deco patterns—makes this a photographer’s dream.

Getting There

Finding the trailhead couldn't be easier. The walk begins at the Hastings Clock Tower, located right in the centre of the Hastings CBD on Russell Street South.

If you are driving in from out of town, there is plenty of convenient public car parking and street parking available throughout the central business district. Most street parking is metered or time-limited, so check the signs, but there are also larger off-street car parks within a two-minute walk of the Clock Tower. If you’re a local, it’s a great excuse to leave the car at home and cycle into the city, as there are plenty of bike racks nearby.

Wildlife Spotting

While this is an urban walk, Hastings is known as the "Fruit Bowl of New Zealand," and the lush greenery of the surrounding plains spills into the city’s parks and streetscapes. As you walk, keep your ears open for the distinct call of the Tūī. These boisterous native birds are common year-round in the CBD, often flitting between the flowering gums and native trees planted along the sidewalks.

You are also likely to spot the cheeky Pīwakawaka (Fantail) darting around the garden beds, and the Tauhou (Silvereye) moving in busy little flocks. If you are lucky and keep a sharp eye on the larger trees in the nearby squares, you might even see a Kererū (New Zealand Wood Pigeon) resting its heavy wings. For the best birdwatching, try to do the walk in the early morning when the city is quieter and the birds are most active.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

The beauty of an urban heritage walk is that it is truly a year-round activity.

• Spring: This is perhaps the most beautiful time to visit, as the city’s planters and nearby parks burst into bloom, and the Tūī are particularly vocal.
• Summer: Hawke’s Bay is famous for its heat. The "Hastings sizzle" is real! If you’re walking in summer, aim for an early morning or late afternoon stroll to avoid the midday sun reflecting off the pavement.
• Autumn: The light in the Bay during autumn is golden and soft—perfect for capturing the textures of the Spanish Mission architecture.
• Winter: On a crisp, blue-sky Hawke’s Bay winter day, this walk is a fantastic way to get some vitamin D without getting your boots muddy.

• Sun Protection: Even in the city, the NZ sun is fierce. Wear a hat and sunscreen, especially as shade can be patchy depending on the time of day.
• Footwear: While you don't need hiking boots, comfortable walking shoes are a must for 4km of concrete.
• Hydration: Bring a reusable water bottle. There are water fountains in the CBD, and plenty of places to stop for a drink.
• Camera: You’ll want your phone or camera handy for the architecture. The best details are often "above the verandahs," so remember to look up!

Local & Regional Context

To walk the streets of Hastings is to walk through a pivotal moment in New Zealand’s history. Before 1931, Hastings was a town of predominantly wooden, Victorian-style buildings. The 1931 Hawke’s Bay Earthquake changed everything. The fire that followed the quake did as much damage as the shaking itself, leading to a total rethink of how the city should be built.

The decision to use Spanish Mission style was a deliberate one. It was considered more permanent and "earthquake-proof" than the old wooden structures, and it suited the Mediterranean climate of the Hawke's Bay perfectly. This style, along with Art Deco, represents a time of immense optimism and forward-thinking.

There is also a deep connection to the local iwi, Ngāti Kahungunu. As you explore, you'll see how Māori motifs and history are woven into the modern fabric of the city, acknowledging the land's long history as a place of gathering and abundance (Heretaunga Haumauma).

After the Walk

Once you’ve finished your loop back at the Clock Tower, you are perfectly positioned to enjoy some of the best hospitality the Bay has to offer.

If you’re after a classic experience, head straight to the Cafe at Westerman's. Located just 100 metres from the tower in a stunning historic building, it is a local favourite. Their coffee is roasted on-site, and the cabinet food is legendary. It’s a bright, airy spot to sit and review your photos.

For something a bit more substantial, Craft & Social Bar + Eatery (300m away) is located in the historic Toitoi – Hawke's Bay Arts & Events Centre. It has a fantastic "modern meets Art Deco" vibe and is great for a social lunch. If you've worked up a real hunger, Charm Eatery & Bar offers fantastic Asian-inspired meals just a short stroll away.

And if you’ve finished your walk in the late afternoon, do yourself a favour and pop into the Common Room. Known as the "best little bar in the bay," it’s a quirky, welcoming spot on Heretaunga Street with a great courtyard—the perfect place to toast a successful day of urban exploration.

200m away

A fully licensed cafe and restaurant in the heart of Hastings City, offering great coffee and Asian-inspired main meals in a modern dining setting.