As a newcomer to the region I have been impressed by the wide variety of very good cafes, restaurants, pubs and wineries in the region.
Even though the weather hasn't been the greatest (by Hawke's Bay standards) in the two months I have lived here, there have still been some good days to enjoy lunch at a winery or a coffee at a cafe.
I have been to a number of establishments since I arrived and really think the local hospitality industry can be proud of the level of service and variety of food on offer here.
Whether it is going to lunch at a winery like Black Barn or simply popping down to At E's Cafe for a quick coffee on a Saturday (which I do whenever I can), the quality of food and service and the enjoyable surroundings add to the experience.
Having lived in Auckland for 10 years and in Johannesburg, South Africa, for eight years before that, I have had my fair share of bad experiences. This is not a criticism of these two beautiful cities and there are some really great places to dine at in both of them. However, at times you just feel that you are a number or a cover that waiting staff want to get rid of.