Napier is a city of about 60,000 inhabitants, located on New Zealand’s picturesque Hawke’s Bay. It is home to one of the world’s best assortments of art deco buildings, and it hosts architecture and vintage festivals throughout the year. The city was all but destroyed by an earthquake in 1931, but it was swiftly rebuilt in the style of the times, which left Napier with one of the most attractive streetscapes in the country.
Stroll down the streets in the city center to find some of the major art deco buildings. There are several companies that run tours explaining the evolution of the style and its prominence in Napier. Make sure you check out the Municipal Theatre for one of the best examples. If you’re in town in mid-February, head to the annual Art Deco Weekend Summer Festival, which draws architecture enthusiasts and general visitors alike with picnics and vintage events all around town.
Learn more about local history at the Hawke’s Bay Museum and Art Gallery. There you’ll find a great collection of art and artifacts from native tribes and pioneer settlers, as well as information on the 1931 earthquake and reconstruction.
One of Napier’s foremost historical sites is Napier Prison, New Zealand’s oldest. Take a guided tour, for a fee, or rent an audio guide. There’s even a spooky night tour for the daring.
For some quiet time, walk down Marine Parade. You’ll see statues, fountains and gardens all along this stretch. There are also cafés and restaurants where you can sit back and gaze out at the Pacific Ocean. Find out what lives beneath the water at the National Aquarium. It houses sharks, stingrays and all kinds of native marine species, such as the seven-armed starfish.
Food and wine lovers will want to visit some of the Hawke’s Bay region wineries, many of which are easily accessible from Napier. These produce some of New Zealand’s finest wines, with tours and tastings available. Be sure to stay for lunch, as locals take good food very seriously.
Napier is a city with great architecture and loads to do. It’s located on the east coast of New Zealand’s North Island and is 457 km (286 miles) south of Auckland.
Napier
Where to stay in Napier
Ahuriri
Though Ahuriri might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like National Tobacco Company Building and Ahuriri Estuary.
Napier South
While visiting Napier South, you might make a stop by sights like McLean Park and National Aquarium of New Zealand.
Taradale
You'll enjoy the wineries and churches in Taradale. You might want to make time for a stop at Church Road Winery or Pettigrew Green Arena.
Bluff Hill
While visiting Bluff Hill, you might make a stop by sights like Napier Prison and Ocean Spa.
Westshore
Beaches, spas, and seafood restaurants are some highlights of Westshore. You might stop by Ahuriri Estuary or Pandora Pond while you're in the area.
Hospital Hill
Hospital Hill might not have many top sights, but War Memorial Conference Center and McLean Park are two attractions nearby that you can check out.
Reviewed on Apr. 22, 2024
Reviewed on Apr. 21, 2024
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Popular places to visit
Marine Parade
After visiting Marine Parade, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Napier. Amble around this relaxing area's seaside and enjoy its top-notch restaurants.
Mission Estate Winery
Leave the city behind for a day to experience idyllic countryside surroundings and sip a range of magnificent wines.
National Aquarium of New Zealand
The tanks at this modern aquarium play host to all kinds of underwater life, from cute sea creatures to fearsome marine predators.
Church Road Winery
Delve into the history of winemaking and indulge in some fine local food and an assortment of delicious reds at this Hawke’s Bay winery.
Napier Prison
Enter spooky cells and hear terrifying tales about some of the nation’s most notorious criminals in one of the oldest prisons in New Zealand.
War Memorial Conference Center
Learn about the local history of Napier with a stop at War Memorial Conference Center. Stroll along the area's beautiful beaches or experience its acclaimed art scene.
Things to do
Cape Winery Cycle Tour - 6 wineries, self-guided
Napier: Best of Napier Small Group Tour
Napier Bike Hire
Reviews of Napier
5/5 - Excellent
A lovely city, steeped in Art Deco designs. My return trip was just as good. Many great gift shops and eateries to enjoy and get a feel for the 1930s.
5/5 - Excellent
Lovely sleepy town. Needed a week here but we were just passing through.
5/5 - Excellent
Really nice stop. Liked the parade walkway and restaurant row on the west side. The Westshore beach inn pub was excellent
5/5 - Excellent
Beautiful town. Our favourite so far in driving both islands.
5/5 - Excellent
We loved Napier. So much to do. The boardwalk along the ocean is fantastic. So many great restaurants, beaches, bike paths. Very clean. Friendly people.
5/5 - Excellent
Wonderfully walkable. Beautiful walk along the ocean. Interesting Art Deco town