Napier - Discovering New Zealand

Travelling to Napier

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Napier, a pretty good destination in New Zealand (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Napier and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Napier, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through New Zealand, here's everything to know about Napier for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Napier

Napier is a small coastal city located on the eastern coast of New Zealand's North Island. The city is known for its Art Deco architecture, which was built in the 1930s following a devastating earthquake in 1931. The city's economy is largely based on tourism and agriculture, with popular activities including visiting vineyards, hiking in nearby parks, and enjoying the beaches. Napier is also home to a variety of cultural attractions, including museums, galleries, and theaters.

What to visit in Napier

Sure, here are some tourist attractions of Napier, New Zealand: 1. The National Aquarium of New Zealand: This aquarium has a diverse range of sea creatures, including reptiles, exotic fish, and penguins. Visitors can watch feeding sessions and attend a close encounter experience with animals.
2. Art Deco Trust: This organization offers tours to explore the unique Art Deco architecture that Napier is famous for. The tours take visitors through the city and explain the history behind the designs.
3. Bluff Hill Lookout: This lookout offers breathtaking views of the city, harbour, and the Pacific Ocean. There is also a short walking trail available for those who want to explore the area further.
4. Marine Parade: A popular and scenic spot for a stroll, Marine Parade has a playground, mini-golf course, and a skate park. It is also home to the Sound Shell outdoor theatre.
5. Cape Kidnappers: This is a stunning natural attraction located near Napier. The tour to Cape Kidnappers involves a scenic drive through forests and farmland, and then a hike or horse ride to view the Cape's famous gannet colony.
6. Mission Estate Winery: Located just outside of Napier, this winery is one of the oldest in New Zealand and provides tastings and tours. The estate gardens are also a beautiful place to explore.
7. Napier Prison: This historic site offers guided tours through the prison, which operated for over 150 years. Visitors can see the cells, exercise yards, and hear about the colorful characters that were imprisoned there.
8. Bluff Hill Windmill: Dating back to 1866, this windmill is located on top of Bluff Hill and offers lovely views of the city. Tours are available to learn about the mill's history and operation.
These are just a few of the many attractions that Napier has to offer.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in New Zealand, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Napier.

When to go on holiday to Napier

The best time to visit Napier (New Zealand) is during the summer season which runs from December to February as it offers warm and sunny weather with temperatures ranging from 20-30 degrees Celsius. However, keep in mind that this is the peak season and the town can get crowded during this time. If you prefer a quieter and less crowded time to visit, then March to May and September to November can also be great times to visit as the weather is still pleasant and there are fewer tourists around.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Napier

Napier is a coastal city located in the Hawke's Bay region of the North Island in New Zealand. Here are some ways to get there: 1. By Plane: The nearest airport to Napier is Hawke's Bay Airport, which is located about 10 kilometers from the city center. Regular flights are available from all major New Zealand cities including Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch.
2. By Car: Napier is easily accessible by car via State Highway 2, which runs from Auckland in the north and Wellington in the south.
3. By Bus: There are regular bus services from major cities including Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch to Napier.
4. By Train: There are train services that operate from Wellington to Napier and take approximately 5 hours.
Once you arrive in Napier, there are plenty of transportation options available such as taxis, rental cars, and buses to get around the city and explore the surrounding areas.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Napier, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Napier

Here are some typical foods of Napier, New Zealand, along with a brief description for each: 1. Fish and Chips - This is a classic Kiwi dish that is commonly found in Napier. It consists of deep-fried fish and crispy potato chips.
2. Lamb - New Zealand is famous for its high-quality lamb, and Napier is no exception. You can find a variety of lamb dishes here, including roasted lamb, lamb chops, and lamb burgers.
3. Pies - Pies are a popular snack or light meal in Napier, and you can find them in many different flavors including steak and cheese, mince and cheese, and bacon and egg.
4. Crayfish - Crayfish, also known as rock lobster, is a popular seafood delicacy in Napier. It is often grilled or served in a creamy sauce.
5. Hokey Pokey Ice Cream - This is a uniquely New Zealand flavor of ice cream, made with vanilla ice cream and honeycomb toffee pieces.
6. Pavlova - A meringue-based dessert topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit. It is said to be invented in New Zealand and is a staple in Kiwi cuisine.
7. Kiwi Burger - A hamburger with beetroot, egg, and pineapple. This is a popular fast food option in New Zealand.
8. Feijoa - A fruit native to South America that is now grown in New Zealand. It has a tangy, sweet flavor and is often used in desserts and jams.
These are just a few examples of the many delicious foods you can try in Napier, New Zealand.
You can find general info about typical foods in New Zealand here.

Is Napier an expensive destination for tourists?

Napier can be considered as a relatively expensive destination for tourists in New Zealand. The general cost of living in Napier can be higher than other cities in the country, and this can reflect on the prices of accommodation, dining, and transport. However, keep in mind that prices can fluctuate depending on the season, so it's always a good idea to research and compare the costs across different travel dates. Additionally, there are ways to reduce the costs of traveling in Napier, such as using public transport, staying in budget-friendly accommodations, and seeking out affordable dining options.

Where to find accomodation in Napier

The best areas to find accommodation to visit Napier, New Zealand are: 1. The city center: This is the heart of Napier, where most of the city's top tourist attractions are located.
2. Marine Parade: This area runs along the waterfront and has some great accommodation options with stunning views of the sea.
3. Ahuriri: This is a historic fishing village that has been gentrified and is now a trendy area with cafes, restaurants, and boutique hotels.
4. Westshore: This is a quiet residential area that is perfect for those looking for a peaceful getaway while still being close to Napier's attractions.
5. Taradale: This area is located in the outskirts of Napier and is home to vineyards, orchards, and wineries. It is a great place to stay if you want to explore the wine region.
You can check hotel prices at Napier here:
Booking.com

Is Napier a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Napier is generally considered a safe place for tourists. Like any other city, it is always important to take the usual precautions such as being aware of your surroundings, not leaving valuable items unattended, and taking care when walking alone at night, particularly in quieter areas. The local police also have a strong presence in the city, so if you have any concerns or need assistance, they are always there to help. Overall, Napier is a wonderful city to visit with a friendly local community and a low crime rate.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in New Zealand here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Napier.

What type of travelers will enjoy Napier the most?

Napier is a great destination for a variety of travelers. Couples will enjoy the romantic and quaint feeling of the city, as well as the numerous vineyards and wineries in the nearby area. Young people looking for fun can enjoy the beach and water activities such as kayaking, surfing, and paddleboarding. The nightlife scene is also lively with plenty of bars and restaurants to choose from. Families can enjoy the kid-friendly attractions and outdoor activities such as playgrounds, parks, and biking trails. The region also offers many opportunities for animal encounters at the local zoo and aquarium. Overall, Napier has something to offer for travelers of all ages and interests.

How to get around Napier

In Napier, you can use different modes of transportation to move around, such as renting a car, taking a taxi or public transportation, bicycling, or walking. The city is relatively small and flat, so walking or biking around town is a great way to explore the area. Alternatively, public buses operate in and around the Napier area, offering convenient and affordable transportation to navigate the region. Taxis are also readily available, and car rental is a popular option for those wishing to have more freedom and flexibility to explore the wider Hawke's Bay area.

What to see around Napier

Here are some great day trip options from Napier, New Zealand: 1. Te Mata Peak: A scenic lookout with stunning views of the Hawke's Bay region. 2. Cape Kidnappers: A rugged coastal area known for its rock formations and colony of gannets. 3. Waimarama Beach: A beautiful white sand beach with great surfing and swimming. 4. Hastings: A neighboring town that has a lively farmers market, unique shops, and Art Deco architecture. 5. Napier wineries: Hawke's Bay is famous for its wine production, so a vineyard tour and tasting is a must-see for wine lovers. 6. Tuki Tuki River: A great spot for trout fishing, kayaking, and picnicking. 7. Esk Valley: A stunning wine region with some award-winning wineries to explore. 8. Pekapeka Wetlands: A peaceful area with walking tracks and bird watching opportunities. 9. Lake Tutira: A picturesque lake surrounded by rolling hills with plenty of kayaking and fishing activities available. 10. Waipatiki Beach: A chilled out and peaceful beach with crystal clear waters and impressive rock formations.
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