Napier Travel Guide

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Napier

Stroll the grand streets of Napier on New Zealand’s North Island and experience the magic and wonder of the Art Deco era, among lush palm trees and Norfolk pines.

Napier, New Zealand

Set in the renowned wine-making region of Hawke’s Bay, Napier is surrounded by fertile rolling hills dotted with award-winning vineyards and orchards, with mountains and nature trails within easy reach.

Things to see in Napier

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The Dome is one of the many examples of Art Deco architecture you will find around Napier.

Head to Marine Parade, the iconic Napier seafront that looks onto the Pacific Ocean. Explore the expansive kids playground, National Aquarium of New Zealand, and Sunken Gardens with the Pania of the Reef statue depicting a Māori maiden, as well as bars, cafes and ice cream shops. Slip out of town and sample local delights beneath a canopy of vines on a wine-tasting tour of the region’s vineyards.  
 
Napier is also known for its stunning natural wonders. Hike, bike or drive up the magnificent Te Mata Peak and be rewarded with spectacular panoramic views across Hawke’s Bay and the Ruahine, Kaweka and Maungaharuru Ranges. Explore scenic nature trails, perfect for hiking or mountain-biking, through beautiful parkland, forest and limestone valleys. Don’t miss the atmospheric Redwoods forest, a grove of giant Californian Redwood trees planted in 1927.  

Art Deco architecture in Napier

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Napier is known as the Art Deco capital of the world, build up from the ruins of the 1931 Hawke's Bay Earthquakes.

The Art Deco capital of New Zealand, Napier was rebuilt after a disastrous earthquake in 1931. It’s now a beautifully-preserved homage to the era with its grand buildings and charming heritage. One of the most complete architectural Art Deco collections in the world, Napier’s is Art Deco with a difference, including Māori motifs and buildings by famed New Zealand architect Louis Hays.  
 
An iconic event celebrating Napier’s heritage, the Art Deco Festival Napier is held over five days each February. Enjoy the romance of a by-gone era with vintage cars, aerial displays and live jazz music. Roll out a picnic blanket at the Gatsby’s Picnic or relax at the Festival Garden Bar and admire the passing promenade dressed up in their vintage finery.  

Hawke’s Bay and surrounds

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Hawke's Bay sits right on the doorstep of Napier, offering stunning views and a wide range of outdoor activities.

Located in beautiful sundrenched Hawke’s Bay, Napier is a great base from which to see the surrounding region. Explore the Hawke's Bay Cycle Trails that wind over the Heretaunga Plains and discover mountain scenery and coast lookouts. Birdwatchers will love Cape Kidnappers, a dramatic sandstone headland with one of the world’s largest colonies of gannets. Walk along tranquil forest trails to see the spectacular Shine Falls, the tallest waterfall in the region.

How do I get to Napier?

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Accessing Napier is easy, by road, rail and air.

Situated midway between Auckland and Wellington, getting to Napier is easy. It’s a 4hr and 15 min drive northeast of Wellington or just under 5 hours southeast of Auckland. Palmerston North is just over 2 hours drive southwest. Bus and rail services run between Napier and Wellington, Auckland and Palmerston North. You can also fly into nearby Hawke’s Bay airport from most major cities in New Zealand.

Top things to do in Napier

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