Hastings: fertile plains to the south; to
the north, road and rail leading on to towns and beyond them,
cities; west, the Ruahine, Kaweka and Kaimanawa ranges; and,
to the east, wild coastline, sparse, beautiful beaches then
nothing but the ocean.
Hastings’ history marks it as a market town servicing
surrounding farming communities. Now, its place is
as civic and cultural centre; home, hub and heartland to
a population of 75,000.
Long warm summers, crisp winters, clean air, fresh water
pumped straight from the ground; these are what make this
land so rich. Orchards heavy with fruit, organic and biodynamic
produce, world-class vineyards, trout fishing and whitebaiting,
a prosperous farmers’ market.
Whether 100-year old villa or brand new bungalow, craftsmen
built the houses here, each sitting on its own fat quarter-acre. Art
in public places, Spanish Mission architecture, bright gardens
and wide streets, all welcoming and refreshing to those new
to this place and those coming home. |
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