Winter schminter. We are going to go out on a limb here and make a gross generalisation by saying one of the reasons we all love living in this region is the weather. Let’s face it, if snow is your thing- you’re in the wrong place.

When you think of Hastings you might think of many things - hanging flower pots, great coffee, roundabouts, shopping, the train track, the Art Deco architecture.

Now, all good children of Hawke’s Bay know at least the rough story of the 1931 earthquake that destroyed both the Napier and Hastings CBD’s - changing them forever.

It’s about this time of year that everyone’s gift giving abilities become glaringly obvious for all to judge, and to be honest some of us just simply haven’t been born with the “good gifting” genes. Not to worry - it’s totally fine, completely understandable, and something we think we can work on together.

As the year continues to march on towards Christmas and beyond, you will no doubt be less inclined to warm up your 2 minute noodles in the office kitchen and eat them at your desk with your coat on while catching up on Youtube shorts, and instead we encourage you to grab your sunnies, sunscreen and hat (slip, slop, slap, wrap y’all) and head outside.

Did you know that Hastings City is a veritable mecca of “thrifting” (slash op shopping)? Within a few blocks we have TEN stores selling pre-loved items. TEN. Can you just imagine all the treasures waiting for you to find them?

It’s time to break up with the dining room table.

8 businesses that fly under the radar that you need to visit ASAP.

Grab some mates and get out on the town.