A City of Art Deco, Culture, and Coastal Charm
Set along the sunny coast of Hawke’s Bay, Napier New Zealand is famed for its Art Deco architecture, oceanfront promenade, and creative local spirit. After being rebuilt in the 1930s following a devastating earthquake, the city emerged with a bold new identity – one that now draws visitors from around the world to admire its pastel facades, geometric designs, and timeless elegance.
Beyond the buildings, Napier pulses with energy. Local galleries, boutique shops, and street art reflect its artistic roots, while the waterfront offers leisurely strolls along Marine Parade, complete with gardens, fountains, and sea views. Whether you’re into history, design, or simply want to soak up the relaxed seaside atmosphere, Napier serves it up with charm and sunshine.
Wine, Wildlife and Easy Day Trips
No visit to Napier New Zealand is complete without sampling the local wines. The city is at the heart of one of New Zealand’s most celebrated wine regions, with vineyards like Mission Estate and Church Road offering tastings just minutes from the town centre. It’s the perfect way to unwind after a morning of sightseeing or a scenic cycle through the vineyards.
For families and nature lovers, there’s plenty more to enjoy. The National Aquarium of New Zealand offers close encounters with native species and tropical marine life, while nearby Cape Kidnappers is home to the world’s largest mainland gannet colony. And if you’ve got time to explore further, Napier makes an ideal base for discovering the wider Hawke’s Bay region.
Top Things to Do in Napier New Zealand
- Take a guided Art Deco walking tour through the city centre
- Visit Mission Estate Winery for tastings and vineyard views
- Stroll or cycle along the scenic Marine Parade pathway
- Explore the National Aquarium of New Zealand
- Enjoy a long lunch at a local café or coastal restaurant
- Visit MTG Hawke’s Bay for art, history, and exhibitions
- Walk the Ahuriri Estuary or nearby Te Mata Peak
- Browse weekend markets for local produce and handmade crafts
Embrace the enchanting architectural charm of New Zealand's Art Deco heritage, a timeless tribute to the 1920s and '30s. Renowned as the Art Deco Capital, Napier hosts an impressive Art Deco Centre, catering to aficionados and history devotees. Appreciate the iconic facades, meticulous detailing, and geometric motifs that typify this extraordinary style.
Featuring architectural styles like Stripped Classical, Spanish Mission, and most prominently, Art Deco, Napier stands out globally.
Its Art Deco is distinctively enhanced with Maori motifs and bears the mark of Louis Hay, an admirer of the famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright. A trip to the prominent Art Deco Centre affords a deeper appreciation of Napier's unique past.
Annual Art Deco festivals in February and July draw over 40,000 visitors globally to Napier. With over 200 exciting events including alfresco music performances, antique car processions, style parades, delectable food offerings, and traditional Gatsby picnics, these festivals bestows a magical feeling of stepping into an epoch of elegance and style.
Napier takes the spotlight in the region's thriving food and wine scene. Indulge in the culinary delights of Napier's CBD, where a diverse range of restaurants and cafes await. Indulge in a gastronomic journey featuring local ingredients, innovative flavours, and culinary artistry, all while surrounded by the city's unique Art Deco charm.
Beyond the city limits, discover the renowned wineries of Napier's surrounding areas. Linden Estate Winery, a hidden gem nearby, boasts historic vineyards and offers the chance to savour their acclaimed Chardonnay.
For a taste of New Zealand's winemaking heritage, visit Mission Estate Winery, the country's oldest winery, founded by French missionaries in 1851, known for its wines' purity and finesse.
As you explore the region's picturesque landscapes, vineyards offer captivating views of rolling hills and coastal scenery. Enhance your experience at Mission Estate Restaurant, an exquisite dining destination, where breathtaking panoramas, refined cuisine, and exceptional wines come together. For a memorable stay, The Farmhouse provides accommodation for weekend getaways or business trips, complete with a complimentary bottle of Mission Fête sparkling wine upon arrival.
