Things To Do

Sugar Loaf Hill

Taradale, Napier 4112

Rating: 4.7 ★ (83 ratings)

Details

Sugar Loaf Hill, also known as Pukekura, stands as a prominent landmark on the western hills above Taradale in Napier, Hawke's Bay. This four-hectare reserve offers a captivating blend of open, grazed pasture terrain and a serene atmosphere, providing a refreshing escape from urban life. Its distinctive shape dominates the local skyline, drawing visitors to its summit for a truly immersive experience of the region's natural beauty.

The main highlight of a visit is the rewarding walk to the 127-metre summit, where a trig station marks the highest point. The Sugar Loaf Walk, typically an easy to moderate loop of approximately 3.7 to 5 kilometres, takes around 1 to 1.5 hours to complete. From this vantage point, visitors are treated to panoramic 360-degree views encompassing Taradale, Napier suburbs, the vast Heretaunga Plains, and the distant Ruahine and Kaweka Ranges, along with glimpses of Te Mata Peak and Cape Kidnappers. The site also holds historical significance, having once been home to Pukekura Pā.

This appealing destination is ideal for those seeking short, invigorating walks and magnificent scenic vistas. It caters well to individuals and families looking to connect with nature without a strenuous climb, and is even a dog-friendly option for keen walkers. The reserve's proximity to renowned wineries, such as Church Road Winery at its base, makes it perfect for combining a picturesque outdoor activity with a delightful local wine experience, offering a comprehensive taste of Hawke's Bay's charm.

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Comments

Hannah Tohill
19 Feb 2026
5.0 ★
Worth a visit and walk to the top for great views of Napier
Anuruddha Basnayake
14 Jan 2025
5.0 ★
A small but stunning mountain offering breathtaking aerial views of Napier city and the surrounding towns. The sight of Mission and Church Road wineries from the top is especially picturesque. However, be mindful that the trail can become muddy and slippery on rainy days, so proper footwear is recommended. Overall, it's a wonderful spot for nature lovers and scenic views.
Dennis Draeger
12 Mar 2024
5.0 ★
This is a great hill for walking, cycling, and jogging up as exercise or just for a fun activity. If you just want a fun activity, you can park very close to the summit, and it's easy to find parking at the bottom in front of the winery if you want a place to exercise.
Kirtika Walia
27 Nov 2019
5.0 ★
What a view, with not much walk though. The walk upto the top is quite steep. Don't go during rainy day as it gets pretty slippery but on a sunny day it's just amazing. Park your car at the carpark and 10 minute walk takes you to the top where you will see the sheeps will be walking along with you to the top. Super awesome. There is a bench on the top to sit as well. Can be a pretty good spot to have something to nibble with a view 😉
Karen Ng
18 Mar 2019
4.0 ★
Entrance to Sugar Loaf Walkway via Cumberland Rise. Easy parking spots, go up the drive by foot and then climb over the fence. A good incline if you like a challenge, dirt path, pretty straightforward. Not that long of a walk from the car park to the top, maybe 15-20mins? Wasn't really timing myself. Seats along the way if you need a rest. Good view at the top, over the vineyard and to Puketapu.

I saw a lot of bees on the way up so if you are allergic to bee stings bring your supplies just in case.

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