The food and wine are world class

Hawke’s Bay isn’t just famous for wineries. Foodwise, it’s the Mediterranean of New Zealand, hosting NZ’S hottest gourmet event, the Food & Wine Classic. Twice a year (June and November), it showcases the region’s best tipples and produce. Mingling with celebrity chefs, devouring gourmet meals and sipping up every last drop of delicious wine, I could not have planned a better time to visit the region. Outside the event, Hawke’s Bay’s vineyards deliver full-bodied reds and rich, complex chardonnays. A visit to Bistronomy in Napier will offer deep, rich flavours. See fawc.co.nz.

Celebrity chef Ray Mcvinnie cooks up a storm at the Food & Wine Classic.

Bistronomy’s fried chicken with smoked parfait, mandarin gel and salmon crackers.