Behind the Scenes: Napier Port & Mainfreight Learning Adventure

Join us for a truly one-of-a-kind Learning Adventure that takes you deep behind the scenes of two of Hawke's Bay's most fascinating operations — Napier Port and the Mainfreight Hastings depot at Longlands.

Our day begins at Napier Port, one of New Zealand's busiest and most vital maritime hubs. Our guided bus tour will take you beyond the public eye and into the operational heart of the port, revealing the daily activities that keep Hawke's Bay connected to the world. You will be joined by a very special guide: Tony des Landes, a former 50-year port employee, local maritime historian, and regular cruise ambassador volunteer. Tony will share extraordinary insights into the port's rich history, its modern-day operations, and the remarkable rise of cruise tourism in Napier over the past three decades.

From the port, we will head to Madame Social on the Ahuriri waterfront for a spectacular shared lunch — the perfect setting to pause, connect, and enjoy vibrant modern Asian fusion cuisine overlooking the water.

Our afternoon takes us to the Mainfreight depot in Longlands, Hastings — one of the most forward-thinking logistics operations in the country. Here, Hastings Branch Manager John Mackay will personally guide us through the facility, revealing the live tracking technology, electric forklifts, and the sustainable design of the building itself — from water capture systems to energy-efficient construction. You will see how one of New Zealand's most iconic companies brings its values to life every single day, and how the Mainfreight culture of care — for its people, its community, and its environment — drives everything that happens inside this busy Hawke's Bay hub.

Limited to 20 people. Booking early is essential.

What to Expect:

Fascinating Access: A rare guided bus tour inside the secure areas of Napier Port, witnessing daily maritime operations up close.

Expert Insights: Learn from Tony des Landes, a maritime historian with 50 years of experience at the port.

Culinary Delight: A shared 'Express Business Lunch' at Madame Social, featuring vibrant modern Asian fusion cuisine on the Ahuriri waterfront.

Behind the Scenes at Mainfreight: A personal guided tour of the Mainfreight Hastings depot with Hastings Branch Manager John Mackay — live tracking data, electric forklifts, sustainable design, and the Mainfreight culture in action.

Meaningful Connection: An intimate group setting perfect for conversation, discovery, and connecting with fellow guests.

Secure your ticket today and prepare for a day of maritime history, logistics, innovation, team culture, sustainable building techniques, delicious food, and wonderful company.

We cater to most dietary requirements with prior notice. Please advise us of any allergies when booking on hello@heart.co.nz.

Please note: For safety and security reasons, attendees must remain on the bus for the duration of the port tour, and valid photo ID is required for port entry.

Date: Tuesday September 1st, 10am-3pm

Location: Our bus leaves from The National Aquarium, Napier, onto Napier Port, then have lunch together with Tony at Madame Social before we head out to Longlands Hastings to Mainfreight. We will return on the bus back to The National Aquarium, Napier where we will say goodbye to our fellow learners.

Phone: 096506500

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