Q&A

Hugo Campion General manager of Hastings Distillers

What is one place that you would take every visitor to New Zealand, and why?

It’s difficult to choose when New Zealand has so many lovely spots to explore.

I had an incredible time walking the Abel Tasman Track, but Russell and the Bay of Islands would probably be my top pick.

You can’t beat a bit of island hopping on a sailboat followed by a wine at the Duke of Marlborough Hotel.

What is your secret backyard favourite spot?

It is not a well-kept secret in Hawke’s Bay, but nothing beats a Sunday walk with my dog Hattie at Ocean Beach, a 20-minute drive from home.

It is one of those quintessentially Kiwi beaches, with a huge stretch of golden sand and a scattering of baches.

What is your favourite place for a pie/coffee?

My favourite coffee spot has to be Red Bridge Coffee in Tuki Tuki. It is a family-run, dog-friendly cafe that is popular with locals and visitors.

For a pie, the spanakopita at Taste Cornucopia Organic Cafe is delicious, and I can get there from the Hastings Distillers tasting room in less than 20 seconds.

What is one New Zealand spot that is at the top of your bucket list?

I would love to climb to the summit of Aoraki/Mt Cook.

It is definitely at the top of my Aotearoa bucket list. I have been a rock climber all my life, and an enthusiastic mountaineer, and for half an arm you can hire a guide to summit safely.

Staying safe

New Zealand is under Covid-19 restrictions. Face coverings are mandatory on flights and public transport. Proof of vaccination may be required in some venues under the traffic light system. Follow the instructions at covid19.govt.nz.