Top ten activities to do in Napier

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Well-known for its Art Deco architecture, Napier is a hive of activity, sun and surf. Located on the right-hand side of the North Island, it’s around five hours drive from Auckland or four hours from Wellington. With numerous vineyards and artists to visit, beaches to walk along and parks to explore, Napier is a must visit New Zealand city.

We’ve put together our list of the top ten must-do activities in Napier. They are:

  1. Marine Parade – this seafront promenade is a must visit Napier attraction. Walk along and see the numerous parks, Pania of the Reef statue, Tom Parker fountain and the Sound Shell.
  2. Cape Kidnappers Gannet Sanctuary – 23km south of Napier, Cape Kidnappers is home to the world’s largest gannet colony. Be prepared to walk 8km from the carpark to the colony though.
  3. National Aquarium of New Zealand – visit sharks, tropical fish, stingrays and reef fish at this amazing aquarium. It is also home to kiwi, tuataras and little blue penguins too.
  4. Art Deco Architecture – Napier is bursting with 1930s style buildings, built following the devastating earthquake during that decade. Or wait until February and attend the famous Art Deco Weekend!
  5. Mission Estate Winery – home to many concerts, the Mission Estate Winery is one of NZ’s oldest wineries. Offering cellar door tastings and guided tours, it’s the perfect afternoon experience.
  6. Splash Planet – located where the old Fantasy Park used to be (some of which still can be seen there), Splash Planet is an outdoor water theme park for all ages.
  7. Hawkes Bay Farmers Market
  8. Napier Prison – founded in 1862, this old ex-prison offers ghostly tours and spooky stories at night for visitors.
  9. Bluff Hill Lookout – drive or walk up to the Bluff Hill lookout and you’ll be rewarded with a dazzling view of Napier. Originally a World War 2 lookout, you’ll see as far as Cape Kidnappers and the Mahia Peninsula from the top.
  10. Sunken Gardens – formed in 1960, the Sunken Gardens is positioned on Marine Parade and is described as a hidden treasure. Located below road level, it is a tranquil and stunningly beautiful garden to explore.

With so many wonderful places to visit and experiences to enjoy, what are you waiting for? Come and visit Napier today!