Kia Ora.
Welcome to Hawke’s Bay.
You’re in the right place.
Hawke’s Bay offers world class education, personal safety, exciting cultural and sport activities, beautiful natural environment and a very comfortable climate. Hawke’s Bay people are friendly and welcoming, and happy to share our wonderful lifestyle with all visitors, international students and migrants.
When you choose to study in Hawke’s Bay, you are choosing to learn in a place like no other - a place where education is rich in adventure, culture and experiences.
Safe choices
Hawke’s Bay people are friendly and welcoming to migrants and international students, embracing cultural diversity. The two main cities of Hastings and Napier have International Safe Communities Accreditation.
Quality education
Hawke’s Bay schools and institutions provide a broad range of academic subjects, along with the opportunity to develop talent in sports and arts, eg rugby, equestrian, sailing, drama and music. We are able to offer education from primary school through to post-graduate level. Our schools have relatively small roll counts and a low concentration of international students, which enables students to have a genuine New Zealand education and dedicated support. Many of our schools are amongst the country’s top-ranking schools for academic and other achievements.
Beautiful natural environment
Hawke’s Bay has a beautiful landscape, including mountains, rivers, ocean and forests. Its Mediterranean-style climate means long, fine, non-humid summers with day-time temperatures reaching 25- 30 oC and night-time temperatures around 15-20 oC, and short, mild winters with temperatures between 10-15 oC. Our sunshine hours are amongst the highest in New Zealand. It is suitable for outdoor activities all year round.
“Summer in Hawke’s Bay is legendary with long, hot days and warm nights.”
Great food
Hawke’s Bay is the largest producer of pip and stone fruit in New Zealand and a world-renowned wine region. Much of this produce is available direct from the grower, either on-site or at our widely applauded farmers’ markets.
“The produce here is so fresh and abundant.”
Exciting lifestyle
There is never a dull moment in Hawke’s Bay. You can explore by car, on foot, or on bike around ‘The Bay’ on one of the 200km of off-road pathways; light up a barbeque and play a game on one of our beautiful beaches; hike in the mountains with stunning views; taste delicious wines and gourmet food in our vineyards; visit our heritage villages and learn about indigenous Maori culture; or attend shows and festivals – visitors travel from all around the world to attend the International Horse of the Year show and Napier’s famous Art Deco Festival. You will be spoilt for choices!

The region of Hawke’s Bay is a fantastic choice for a student wishing to come and experience life in New Zealand.
Our schools and educational institutions have well-established heritages and offer great study choices and outstanding extracurricular activities.
Hawke’s Bay is clean and safe and has an abundance of natural resources. Hastings District within Hawke’s Bay has been declared GM-free and offers a broad range of fresh, local produce and world-renowned vineyards. There are a large number of events held every year that attract international visitors including Horse of the Year, music concerts and cultural celebrations.
Hastings District Council is committed to ensuring our students receive a warm welcome throughout their stay and we look forward to seeing you here in Hawke’s Bay soon.
Sandra Hazlehurst
Mayor of Hastings
Choosing to study overseas is a big decision, and choosing Hawke’s Bay is a very good decision.
International students are an important part of our community. You bring your culture and fresh perspectives that enrich our schools and neighbourhoods. We value the contribution you make while you’re here.
As an official member of the Welcoming Communities programme run by Immigration New Zealand, Napier is committed to creating a community where everyone feels they belong. Through the Welcoming Communities programme, we work with local organisations, schools and businesses to ensure newcomers feel supported and connected, no matter how long they are here for.
I encourage you to get involved, meet new people and make the most of the opportunities available both in and out of the classroom. On behalf of Napier City Council, welcome to our city. I hope your time in Hawke’s Bay is rewarding, and that you leave with lasting friendships and fond memories of your time here.
Richard McGrath
Mayor of Napier






