Hastings i-SITE

Ākina Gallery

 

Ākina means to encourage and urge on, which is what owner Sacha van den Berg (Ngāti Kahungunu, Cook Island, Dutch) intends to do for the artists represented in her new contemporary gallery space. Ākina is also where she grew up – in Ākina St, just a stone’s throw from the Municipal Building.

A celebration of the best of Hawke’s Bay, and those with connections to this rohe, Sacha says Ākina will focus on toi Māori, Te Moana Nui a Kiwa, and indigenous art, but not be limited to it. “Ākina will be a mix of curated shows and object art with a very intentional approach to its relationships – both with our artists and those who choose to buy work.”

Sacha is focused on providing wraparound support for both artists and buyers, so everyone feels welcome and safe in her space. “I want Ākina to be a space where contemporary art can start conversations, challenge perceptions and help us all grow together, as a community.”

Cellar 495

Cellar 495 is the brainchild of local Master of Wine, Michael Henley. The name comes from Michael’s Master of Wine number – he is the world’s 495^th Master of Wine.

Envisioned as a boutique wine cellar and bar, Cellar 495 will offer its visitors a wine-focused hospitality experience. A tasting room and bottle shop by day, and a wine bar by night, Cellar 495 aims to demystify wine by offering access to the expertise of Mr Henley, who has spent his life surrounded by the world’s best wines.

“We really want people to come in and learn something. We have the expertise to take you on a journey through wine – you can order what you like, or you can trust us to make the selections for you. Either way, we know you’ll be surprised and delighted by what Cellar 495 offers.”

Craft & Social

 

Craft & Social live and breathe hospitality, and can’t wait to present their flavour-driven small plates to share – a similar vibe to well-known celebrity chef Al Brown’s Depot Eatery in Auckland. 

Owner Damon McGuiness says they’ve seen a lot, done a lot and absolutely love the game. 

“We’re proud to be part of the new drive and energy recreating the Hasting’s social scene. 

“When we first saw this iconic site in the municipal building in early 2020 it felt like the under structure of an industrial bridge. Massive pillars, steel reinforcing and a jungle of concrete.  

“It's a fine art playing with historic building consents and to encourage the site to breathe and dance again. This girl is industrial underneath, not changing that. We’ve just taken her shopping for new shoes and a dress, and she can't stop smiling!”

Check out these menu teasers to get your mouth watering in anticipation: 

• Fried prawns, sweet chilli Jam, wakame & black sesame
• Coconut & lemongrass chicken salad, cucumber, pickled ginger, candied nuts
• Beef Randang, toasted coconut, sticky rice, crispy shallots
• Angus Beef & Swiss cheese sliders, chipotle mayo & iceberg

Long Island Delicatessen

 

Long Island Delicatessen will be a takeaway deli with a focus on fast, healthy food on the corner of Heretaunga and Hastings St (in the former Hutchinson’s site).

With a 4.5m long island counter at its centre, hence the name, owner Kristy Isaacson says visitors can expect a huge salad bar, plenty of protein choices and Ottolenghi-inspired food.

“Our food will be healthy and quick with lots of bright colours and big flavours. We’ll have a rotating offering throughout the day – with different cabinet food for breakfast and lunch.”

Ms Isaacson is passionate about ethical and free-range food and has a sustainability-focused approach to business.

She has previously lived in Christchurch, Melbourne and London and chose to open her new hospitality business in the Municipal Building because the laneway reminded her of those cities.

“It’s the perfect place to create my big city dream in this small city that I love.”