ACTIVITIES

Not only is Gary a chef, he’s also a golf pro having played internationally for 20 years and taught professionally at the Royal Hague Golf & Country Club. He’s the ideal companion if you’d like a round of golf at some of New Zealand’s premier golf courses, or personal coaching to help lift your game.

Hastings Golf Club is just 10 minutes from The Manse and internationally renowned Cape Kidnappers Golf Course just 45 minutes away. The famous Kinloch Golf Course is 45 minutes by helicopter. If golf is your passion, The Manse can deliver.

The Manse has the use of a Clay Target Course in a natural, rural setting that offers a special atmosphere and completely safe environment, where the natural environment is protected.

– Bookings by appointment

Hawke’s Bay has some of the finest fly-fishing spots in the country and from the verandah at The Manse you can look down on one of the best – Ngaruroro River. Let us know and we can arrange a guided fishing trip for you at any of the excellent fishing rivers in the region.

This is a fabulous chance to learn professional cooking skills and have a lot of fun along the way. Gary is a food connoisseur and great company, so you’ll enjoy learning cooking skills and tips, gaining insights on handling fish, meat, seafood or poultry, with plenty of taste testing along the way.

Combine your lesson with a visit to the local Farmer’s Market or use your new-found skills to help prepare your own meal.  Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned cook, this is the perfect way to expand your cooking skills.

– Bookings on request

Learn all about the choicest cuts from two of the best, when Gary joins with Paul Greaney from The Chop Shop to reveal how to select, prepare and cook all the bits from a beast. Tastings, wine, port and single malts add to the experience. Ideal for groups up to eight.

– Bookings on request

In the beautifully appointed library you’ll find an extraordinary selection of over 65 single malts and over 200 Cuban cigars. Another of Gary’s great passions, the whisky and cigar selection is exceptional. A very special way to round out your day.

Hawke’s Bay is wine country and with over 150 vineyards, many with cellar doors and restaurants, you’ll be in the heart of one of New Zealand’s premier wine growing regions.

The Manse is just minutes from the famous Gimblett Gravels and Ngatarawa Triangle, so you’ll have the pick of top wineries right on your doorstep. Special tasting tours can be arranged throughout the region, with introductions to winemakers, and lunch included if desired.

From wine trails to art deco tours, cycling to food experiences, we can advise you on the perfect tour and make all the arrangements.