Fun Things to Do in Napier | Travel Guide (2024) | Best Places to Visit
Napier Travel Guide
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Welcome to Napier, a charming coastal city located on the eastern coast of New Zealand's North Island. Known for its stunning Art Deco architecture, Napier is a must-visit destination for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts alike. This city rose from the ashes after a devastating earthquake in 1931, resulting in a complete rebuild in the popular Art Deco style of the time. Today, Napier is not only a living museum of Art Deco design but also offers a vibrant cultural scene, beautiful beaches, and world-class wineries. Whether you're strolling along the Marine Parade, exploring the National Aquarium of New Zealand, or indulging in a wine tasting tour in the nearby Hawke's Bay region, Napier promises a unique and unforgettable travel experience.
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Things To Do In Napier
Napier is a vibrant city located on the eastern coast of the North Island. It is known for its stunning Art Deco architecture, beautiful beaches, and thriving wine industry. Here are some things to do in Napier:
1. Explore the Art Deco architecture: Napier is famous for its well-preserved Art Deco buildings, which were rebuilt after a devastating earthquake in 1931. Take a walking tour or join a guided Art Deco bus tour to learn about the city's architectural history.
2. Visit the National Aquarium of New Zealand: This popular attraction is home to a wide variety of marine life, including sharks, penguins, and stingrays. Take a guided tour or participate in a feeding session to get up close and personal with the animals.
3. Enjoy the beaches: Napier boasts several beautiful beaches, such as Ocean Beach and Waimarama Beach. Spend a day relaxing on the golden sands, swimming in the clear waters, or trying out water sports like surfing or paddleboarding.
4. Indulge in wine tasting: Napier is located in the renowned Hawke's Bay wine region, known for its world-class wineries. Take a wine tour and sample a variety of award-winning wines, including Chardonnay, Merlot, and Syrah. Don't forget to pair your wine with some delicious local cheeses.
5. Cycle the Hawke's Bay Trails: Napier is a great starting point for exploring the scenic Hawke's Bay Trails. Rent a bike and cycle through picturesque vineyards, orchards, and coastal areas. Stop along the way to enjoy a picnic or visit local attractions like Te Mata Peak.
6. Discover the Cape Kidnappers Gannet Colony: Take a guided tour to Cape Kidnappers, home to the largest mainland gannet colony in the world. Observe these fascinating seabirds in their natural habitat and enjoy breathtaking views of the rugged coastline.
Tours And Activities In Napier
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Best Time To Visit Napier
The best time to visit Napier is during the summer months of December to February. This is when the city experiences warm and sunny weather, with temperatures ranging from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius. The longer daylight hours during this time also allow visitors to make the most of their time exploring the city's beautiful beaches and outdoor activities. Additionally, Napier is famous for its Art Deco architecture, and during the third weekend of February, the city hosts the Art Deco Festival, which is a must-see event for lovers of this unique style. However, it's important to note that summer is also the peak tourist season, so it's advisable to book accommodations and activities in advance to ensure availability.
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Best Areas To Stay In Napier
Napier offers several great areas for accommodation. Here are a few options:
1. Ahuriri: Located on the waterfront, Ahuriri is a trendy and vibrant area with a range of accommodation options. It offers stunning views of the ocean and is known for its boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants. Ahuriri is also home to the National Aquarium of New Zealand, making it a popular choice for families.
2. Napier CBD: The central business district of Napier is a convenient area to stay in, as it is close to many attractions and amenities. Here, you'll find a mix of hotels, motels, and serviced apartments. The CBD is known for its art deco architecture, charming streets, and proximity to the waterfront.
3. Havelock North: Just a short drive from Napier, Havelock North is a picturesque village nestled in the heart of wine country. It offers a peaceful and relaxed atmosphere, with a range of boutique accommodations available. Havelock North is surrounded by vineyards and orchards, making it an ideal choice for wine enthusiasts and those seeking a tranquil getaway.
4. Taradale: Situated on the outskirts of Napier, Taradale is a suburb known for its wineries and vineyards. It offers a mix of accommodation options, including bed and breakfasts and self-contained cottages. Taradale is a great choice for those looking to explore the local wine scene and enjoy the beautiful countryside.
5. Westshore: Located on the western side of Napier, Westshore is a popular area for beachfront accommodation. It offers easy access to the beach, as well as a range of cafes and restaurants. Westshore is a great choice for those who enjoy water activities such as swimming, surfing, or simply relaxing by the sea.
Overall, Napier has a variety of areas to choose from when it comes to accommodation. Whether you prefer a waterfront location, a central city vibe, a peaceful village setting, or a beachfront escape, there is something for everyone in Napier.
Hotels Map Of Napier
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Transportation To Napier
There are several transportation options to get to Napier:
1. By Air: The nearest airport to Napier is Hawke's Bay Airport (NPE), which is located about 10 kilometers from the city center. There are regular domestic flights from major cities in New Zealand, such as Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch.
2. By Car: Napier is well-connected by road and can be reached by car from various cities in New Zealand. State Highway 2 (SH2) is the main road that connects Napier to other major cities, including Auckland, Wellington, and Taupo.
3. By Bus: There are bus services operated by Intercity and Naked Bus that connect Napier to other cities in New Zealand. The bus terminal in Napier is located on Munroe Street.
4. By Train: Although there is no direct train service to Napier, you can take a train to nearby cities like Palmerston North or Hastings and then continue your journey to Napier by bus or car.
5. By Cruise Ship: Napier is a popular port of call for cruise ships, especially during the summer season. If you are on a cruise, you can disembark at the Napier Port and explore the city.
Once you arrive in Napier, there are local transportation options available, such as taxis, rental cars, and public buses, to help you get around the city and explore its attractions.
Nearby Destination From Napier
1. Hastings: A vibrant city known for its art deco architecture and delicious local produce.
2. Havelock North: A charming village famous for its wineries and stunning views of Te Mata Peak.
3. Taradale: A suburb of Napier with a rich history, featuring beautiful gardens and historic buildings.
4. Clive: A small coastal town offering scenic river walks and a popular spot for fishing.
5. Bay View: A seaside settlement with a picturesque beach and great opportunities for water sports.
6. Haumoana: A coastal village known for its relaxed atmosphere and beautiful coastal scenery.
7. Te Awanga: A coastal community with a thriving wine industry and stunning coastal trails.
8. Eskdale: A rural area with vineyards and orchards, offering peaceful countryside retreats.
9. Puketapu: A historic village with a charming country pub and scenic river walks.
10. Whirinaki: A small settlement surrounded by native forests, perfect for hiking and nature enthusiasts.