Napier, Art Deco City

Napier is an interesting year-round destination. There is plenty to do if you come in Winter... wine tours, National Aquarium, museum, great cafes and restuarants, galleries, and shopping. February, however, is THE time to visit. Art Deco weekend, which commemorates the earthquake and phoenix-like recovery of Napier, is AMAZING! The whole town is transformed, vintage cars are seen driving around, residents and visitora alike dress up in 1930s outfits, and there is a great 1930s atmosphere around the place. Check out www.artdeconapier.co.nz for more info.

Quick Tips:

Do spend at least 2 nights in Napier, as there is plenty to see and do and a one-night stop is always regretted—I can say that after running a B&B here for 4 years!

Best Way To Get Around:

Drive yourself or join one of the great wine tours! Bike hire is popular too, especially the On yer Bikes Wine Tour!!

Great imaginative Pacific Rim cuisine. Enthusiastic, friendly staff and imaginative menu made with local produce and freshly caught fish. Great choice of local wines. Closed during winter months (May to September).

Excellent Indian restaurant. Great ethnic decor and good atmosphere. Busy mid- week, as well as weekend, and locals love it! Great for vegetarians and carnivores alike.

Fascinating guided walk (NZ$10) around Art Deco Napier city centre. Destroyed by Earthquake in 1931, Napier was rebuilt in only 2 years in the Art Deco style, and the tour is well worth the few dollars.

Every Sunday morning, come rain or shine (usually the latter!!), The Farmers Market offers you some of Hawkes bay's finest produce. Try before you buy! Everything from freshly roasted coffee to local cheeses. Olives to Venison…it's great. Buy yourself a picnic and head to the beach!! In summer, (November to March) there is also a great market at Havelock North (20km from Napier).