Nestled in the heart of Hawke’s Bay on New Zealand’s North Island, The Manse is a luxurious and serene retreat offering a blend of elegance, comfort, and countryside charm. With a rich heritage, premium amenities, and exceptional hospitality, The Manse has become a favored destination for travelers seeking relaxation, fine food, and a connection to the natural beauty of rural New Zealand. Whether you’re a wine lover, a golfer, or someone searching for a peaceful hideaway, The Manse delivers a refined experience tailored to your desires.
Location and Setting
A Tranquil Escape in Hawke’s Bay
The Manse is situated just outside Hastings, one of Hawke’s Bay’s key towns, and only a short drive from Napier’s coastal charm. This location places the property amid some of New Zealand’s finest vineyards and wineries, rolling farmland, and majestic landscapes. Surrounded by olive groves and mature trees, The Manse offers privacy and panoramic views of the Kaweka Ranges.
Its peaceful setting makes it the ideal place for rest and rejuvenation while remaining within easy reach of attractions such as golf courses, art deco architecture in Napier, and the world-renowned Hawke’s Bay food and wine scene.
The Residence
Elegant Heritage with Modern Comfort
The Manse was originally built as a presbytery, and its name reflects its historical significance. Today, the property has been exquisitely restored to combine classic elegance with modern luxury. Inside, guests will find high ceilings, timber floors, and antique furnishings that add charm and character to every room.
- Spacious suites with ensuite bathrooms and private terraces
- Comfortable common areas with open fireplaces and reading nooks
- Garden views from nearly every angle
- Air conditioning and underfloor heating for year-round comfort
The attention to detail in both design and décor ensures that every guest enjoys an atmosphere of sophistication and relaxation.
Accommodation Options
Luxury Suites
The Manse offers a limited number of suites, creating an intimate and personalized experience. Each suite is uniquely decorated with classic furnishings and equipped with top-tier amenities such as luxury linens, rain showers, and designer toiletries. Some suites feature French doors that open onto private patios, allowing guests to enjoy morning coffee while listening to birdsong.
Guests who prioritize privacy and personalized attention often find The Manse’s small-scale design ideal for honeymoons, anniversary trips, or quiet solo getaways.
Dining at The Manse
Farm-to-Table Excellence
One of the highlights of a stay at The Manse is the culinary experience. The property boasts an in-house chef who creates seasonal menus using fresh produce grown onsite or sourced locally from Hawke’s Bay farmers. The cuisine reflects a blend of European and Kiwi flavors, emphasizing quality ingredients and refined presentation.
Guests can expect:
- Daily gourmet breakfast with homemade bread, fruit, and local honey
- Optional three-course dinners with matched wines
- Garden-to-table vegetables and herbs
- Dietary preferences accommodated with prior notice
Meals are typically served in a formal dining room or alfresco on the terrace overlooking the lawn and hills beyond.
Activities and Experiences
Explore Hawke’s Bay in Style
The Manse provides more than just a place to sleep it’s a base for a variety of luxurious and cultural experiences. Whether guests seek adventure or quiet leisure, the region and the estate itself offer something for everyone.
On-Site Activities
- Clay target shooting on private grounds
- Cooking classes with the resident chef
- Wine tastings in the lounge or garden
- Swimming in the heated pool
Nearby Attractions
- Wine tasting tours across Hawke’s Bay’s famous vineyards
- Golfing at Cape Kidnappers one of the world’s top-ranked courses
- Bike tours through scenic trails and farmlands
- Visits to Napier’s art deco center and Sunday Farmers’ Market in Hastings
The hosts at The Manse are always ready to organize tailored day trips and luxury transport to help guests make the most of their stay in the region.
Service and Hospitality
Personalized and Attentive
What truly sets The Manse apart is the exceptional service delivered by its dedicated hosts. Guests are welcomed with warmth and genuine care, with every effort made to accommodate personal preferences and make each visit special.
From booking local experiences to arranging surprise celebrations, the staff ensure seamless comfort. Many guests remark on the feeling of being looked after like family, while still enjoying the high standards expected from a luxury lodge.
Ideal for Events and Celebrations
Weddings, Retreats, and Exclusive Bookings
With its stunning setting and elegant atmosphere, The Manse is a popular venue for small weddings, milestone birthdays, and executive retreats. The property can be exclusively booked for private events, ensuring total privacy and bespoke experiences.
Benefits of exclusive bookings include:
- Custom menus and wine pairings
- Event planning support
- Photography-friendly gardens and architecture
- Private use of all guest facilities
Sustainability and Local Partnerships
Supporting the Community
The Manse is committed to environmental stewardship and community engagement. Their kitchen gardens reduce the need for imported goods, while food waste is composted to enrich the land. Additionally, The Manse supports local artisans and producers, using handmade soaps, local wines, and regional crafts to enhance the guest experience.
By choosing to stay at The Manse, visitors are also contributing to the support of sustainable tourism in Hawke’s Bay.
Why The Manse Stands Out
A Refined Rural Escape
In a country known for its natural beauty and welcoming spirit, The Manse in New Zealand stands out as a refined and memorable rural retreat. It successfully combines heritage charm with luxurious living and gives travelers the opportunity to experience the quieter, more elegant side of New Zealand life.
Whether you come for the food, the wine, the peace, or the personal attention, a stay at The Manse is a celebration of comfort, style, and the art of gracious hospitality.
The Manse offers more than accommodation it provides a complete escape into the tranquil rhythms of Hawke’s Bay. With a setting that inspires, service that delights, and amenities that pamper, it’s easy to see why guests return time and again. If you are seeking an exceptional New Zealand experience, where tradition meets luxury and every detail is cared for, The Manse may be the perfect place for your next journey.