Hey guys! Planning a trip to the stunning Hawke's Bay region of New Zealand? Then you absolutely HAVE to include Napier on your itinerary! Napier is not just any city; it's a treasure trove of Art Deco architecture, delicious food and wine, and breathtaking coastal views. Seriously, you won't regret it. Let’s dive into the best things to do in Napier, ensuring you make the most of your visit. Get ready for an adventure filled with history, culture, and a whole lot of fun!

Explore the Art Deco Architecture

Napier is world-renowned for its incredibly preserved Art Deco architecture, a legacy of the devastating 1931 earthquake that leveled the city. When it was rebuilt, the city embraced the Art Deco style, which was all the rage at the time. Walking through the streets is like stepping back in time, offering a unique and visually stunning experience that you won't find anywhere else in the world. The pastel colors, geometric patterns, and stylized motifs create a cohesive and charming atmosphere that’s perfect for photographers and history buffs alike. Imagine strolling down the street, surrounded by buildings that look like they're straight out of a 1930s movie set – it's truly magical!

To truly appreciate the Art Deco architecture, consider joining a guided walking tour. These tours are led by knowledgeable locals who share fascinating stories about the city's history and the architectural details of the buildings. You’ll learn about the architects, the design influences, and the challenges they faced in rebuilding the city after the earthquake. Alternatively, you can explore the city at your own pace with a self-guided tour. Grab a map from the local visitor center and wander through the streets, admiring the buildings and soaking in the atmosphere. Don't forget to look up and notice the intricate details on the facades, such as the stylized sunbursts, zigzags, and geometric shapes that are characteristic of the Art Deco style. Key buildings to look out for include the National Tobacco Company Building, the ASB Bank Building, and the Criterion Hotel. Each of these buildings has its own unique story and architectural features that make it a must-see.

But the Art Deco experience doesn't stop at just looking at buildings. The city also hosts the annual Art Deco Festival, a five-day celebration of all things Art Deco. During the festival, the city comes alive with vintage cars, costumes, and music. It’s an incredible opportunity to immerse yourself in the era and experience the glamour and excitement of the 1930s. Even if you can't make it to the festival, you can still enjoy the Art Deco vibe year-round by visiting the Art Deco Centre, which offers exhibits, films, and information about the city's architectural heritage. And if you want to take your experience to the next level, why not dress up in vintage clothing and pose for photos in front of the iconic buildings? It's a fun and memorable way to capture the spirit of Napier and create lasting memories of your trip. Napier's Art Deco architecture isn't just a collection of buildings; it's a living, breathing part of the city's identity, and it's waiting for you to explore and discover its secrets.

Visit the National Aquarium of New Zealand

Speaking of must-sees, the National Aquarium of New Zealand is another top attraction in Napier, especially if you're traveling with family or just love marine life. It's the perfect place to spend a few hours marveling at the diverse range of aquatic creatures from New Zealand and around the world. The aquarium is home to an impressive collection of fish, sharks, turtles, penguins, and other marine animals, all housed in beautifully designed exhibits that mimic their natural habitats. Prepare to be amazed by the colorful coral reefs, the graceful movements of the sharks, and the playful antics of the penguins.

One of the highlights of the aquarium is the Oceanarium, a massive tank that houses a variety of sharks, rays, and other large fish. You can walk through a clear tunnel that runs through the tank, giving you a 360-degree view of the underwater world. It’s an incredible experience to see these magnificent creatures swimming all around you. Another popular exhibit is the Kiwi House, where you can see New Zealand's national bird, the kiwi, in a nocturnal environment. The aquarium also has a penguin enclosure, where you can watch the little blue penguins waddle and swim. These penguins are native to New Zealand and are the smallest species of penguin in the world. The National Aquarium of New Zealand is not just a place to see marine life; it's also a center for education and conservation. The aquarium is involved in a number of research and conservation projects, including breeding programs for endangered species and rehabilitation programs for injured marine animals. By visiting the aquarium, you're supporting these important efforts and helping to protect the marine environment. The aquarium offers a range of educational programs for schools and groups, teaching visitors about the importance of marine conservation and the threats facing our oceans. And if you're feeling adventurous, you can even book a behind-the-scenes tour to learn more about how the aquarium operates and how they care for the animals. So, whether you're a marine enthusiast, a family looking for a fun day out, or simply curious about the underwater world, the National Aquarium of New Zealand is a must-visit destination in Napier. Get ready to be amazed by the beauty and diversity of marine life and learn about the importance of protecting our oceans for future generations.

Wine Tasting in Hawke's Bay

Okay, wine lovers, this one's for you! No trip to Napier is complete without indulging in some wine tasting in the Hawke's Bay region. Known as New Zealand's oldest wine region, Hawke's Bay is famous for its award-winning wineries and stunning vineyards. Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or just enjoy a casual glass, you’ll find plenty to delight your palate here. Hawke's Bay is particularly well-regarded for its red wines, especially Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Syrah, as well as its Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. The region's warm climate and fertile soils create the perfect conditions for growing grapes, resulting in wines that are rich, complex, and full of flavor.

There are numerous wineries to choose from, ranging from small, family-run operations to large, internationally recognized estates. Many wineries offer cellar door tastings, where you can sample a range of wines and learn about the winemaking process. Some wineries also offer tours of their vineyards and facilities, giving you a behind-the-scenes look at how wine is made. To make the most of your wine tasting experience, consider hiring a local tour company to take you to several wineries in a day. These tours often include transportation, tastings, and lunch, so you can relax and enjoy the experience without having to worry about driving. Some popular wineries to visit include Mission Estate Winery, New Zealand's oldest winery, which offers a range of tours and tastings, as well as a beautiful restaurant. Another great option is Craggy Range, which is known for its stunning architecture and world-class wines. And if you're looking for a smaller, more intimate experience, check out Te Mata Estate, which is one of the oldest and most respected wineries in the region. But wine tasting is not just about sampling different wines; it's also about learning about the history and culture of the region. Many of the wineries in Hawke's Bay have been family-owned for generations, and they have a deep connection to the land and the community. By visiting these wineries, you're not just tasting wine; you're also learning about the people and the traditions that make Hawke's Bay such a special place. So, whether you're a serious wine enthusiast or just looking for a fun and relaxing day out, don't miss the opportunity to go wine tasting in Hawke's Bay. It's an experience that will tantalize your taste buds, enrich your knowledge, and create lasting memories of your trip to Napier. Cheers to that!

Cape Kidnappers

For those seeking breathtaking natural beauty, Cape Kidnappers is an absolute must-visit. This stunning headland, located just a short drive from Napier, is famous for its dramatic cliffs, panoramic ocean views, and the world's largest mainland gannet colony. Whether you're a nature lover, a bird enthusiast, or simply looking for a scenic escape, Cape Kidnappers offers an unforgettable experience. The cape gets its intriguing name from an incident during Captain Cook's voyage in 1769, when local Māori attempted to kidnap a crew member. But despite its somewhat ominous name, Cape Kidnappers is a place of incredible beauty and natural wonder.

The gannet colony is the main attraction, and it's home to thousands of these beautiful seabirds. From September to April, the gannets nest on the cliffs, creating a spectacle of sight and sound. You can visit the colony on a guided tour, which takes you to within a few feet of the nesting birds. It's an amazing opportunity to observe these fascinating creatures up close and learn about their behavior and ecology. The tours are led by knowledgeable guides who provide insights into the gannets' life cycle, their feeding habits, and the challenges they face in the modern world. Alternatively, you can hike to the colony on your own, following a well-marked trail that winds through the rolling hills of the cape. The hike takes about two hours round trip and offers stunning views of the coastline and the surrounding countryside. But Cape Kidnappers is not just about the gannets; it's also a place to enjoy the great outdoors. The cape offers a range of hiking trails, from easy strolls to challenging climbs, each offering its own unique perspective on the landscape. You can also go fishing, kayaking, or simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun. And if you're a golf enthusiast, you can play a round at the world-renowned Cape Kidnappers Golf Course, which is consistently ranked among the top golf courses in the world. The course is set on the cliffs of the cape, offering stunning views of the ocean and the surrounding countryside. So, whether you're a birdwatcher, a hiker, a golfer, or simply looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, Cape Kidnappers is a must-visit destination in Napier. Get ready to be amazed by the beauty and diversity of nature and create lasting memories of your trip.

Marine Parade

Last but not least, a stroll along Marine Parade is a must-do for any visitor to Napier. This scenic promenade stretches along the city's waterfront, offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and a range of activities for all ages. Marine Parade is the heart of Napier, a place where locals and tourists alike come to relax, socialize, and enjoy the beauty of the coast. The parade is lined with Art Deco buildings, gardens, and sculptures, creating a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're looking for a place to take a leisurely walk, enjoy a picnic, or simply soak up the sun, Marine Parade has something for everyone.

One of the highlights of Marine Parade is the Soundshell, an iconic Art Deco structure that hosts concerts and events throughout the year. The Soundshell is a symbol of Napier, and it's a popular spot for taking photos and enjoying the views. Another popular attraction is the Tom Parker Fountain, a beautiful water feature that's surrounded by gardens and benches. The fountain is a great place to relax and watch the world go by. For those traveling with children, Marine Parade offers a range of activities to keep them entertained. There's a playground, a miniature railway, and a swimming pool, all located along the parade. The playground is equipped with a variety of slides, swings, and climbing frames, providing hours of fun for kids of all ages. The miniature railway is a great way to see the parade, and it's a hit with both kids and adults. The swimming pool is open during the summer months, and it's a great place to cool off on a hot day. Marine Parade is also home to a number of restaurants, cafes, and bars, offering a range of cuisines to suit all tastes. You can enjoy a casual meal at a beachfront cafe, a fine dining experience at a seafood restaurant, or a refreshing drink at a rooftop bar. And if you're looking for souvenirs, there are plenty of shops along the parade selling local crafts, artwork, and clothing. So, whether you're a local or a tourist, a visit to Marine Parade is a must when in Napier. It's a place where you can relax, have fun, and enjoy the beauty of the coast. Take a stroll along the promenade, soak up the sun, and create lasting memories of your trip to Napier. You will love it!

Napier, New Zealand, is a destination that truly has it all: stunning architecture, captivating wildlife, world-class wine, and breathtaking natural beauty. Whether you're interested in history, culture, nature, or simply relaxing and enjoying the good life, Napier offers something for everyone. So pack your bags, book your tickets, and get ready to explore this amazing city. You won't be disappointed! I hope this guide helps you make the most of your trip to Napier. Safe travels and have a fantastic time exploring all that this incredible city has to offer!