Need to Know About Napier
Napier is a small coastal city, with a population of slightly more than 60,000 people, that sits on the east coast of New Zealand’s North Island. The city is renowned for its unique Art Deco architecture, and it is the home of one of the world’s largest groupings of Art Deco buildings. These structures were built following an earthquake in the 1930s, and some of the rubble that was unable to be repurposed can also be seen in some of the city’s public gardens. Another drawcard of Napier is its delicious wine, especially the vintages produced in the surrounding Hawke’s Bay region. Travellers who booked airfares to Napier looking to relax will find this city is a go-to destination for all tastes.
What to do in Napier
Bluff Hill
This wonderful lookout will let you take in the beauty of Napier from a lofty perch. Plus the views make for pretty incredible holiday happy-snaps, too. From the summit’s lookout, visitors are treated to a gorgeous outlook of Hawke’s Bay and the working Napier port. Reach the lookout with a short drive, or a 30-minute walk from the Napier city centre.
National Aquarium of New Zealand
Travelling with the family to Napier? An excursion that will keep everyone happy is a trip to the National Aquarium of New Zealand, home to an array of sea life such as stingrays, sharks, turtles, and various tropical fish. Time your visit to watch the feeding of the sharks or little penguins, or you might even book one of the close encounters with piranha or alligators.
Waiapu Cathedral of Saint John the Evangelist
The Waiapu Cathedral of Saint John the Evangelist is one of the city’s best samples of Art Deco architecture. Its stained-glass windows and linear lines make the Cathedral an eye-catching sight.
Napier Urban Farmers’ Market
Happening every Saturday morning from 9am to 1pm, the Napier Urban Farmers’ Market is the place to go to pick up supplies for your holiday. Expect to fill your hamper with just-roasted coffee, fresh fruit and veggies, baked treats and other items.
Getting Around Napier
Thanks to its size, Napier is a city that is easily discovered on foot. A walk along the city’s waterfront is especially scenic, and there are a series of marked paths and walkways woven throughout the neighbourhoods. Swap two feet for two wheels by renting a bike and using pedal power to get around the city, or jump onto one of the local buses. Some bus services also connect Napier with other destinations around Hawke’s Bay.
When is the Best Time Visit Napier?
Napier is at its best during the summer, from December to February. Temperatures are warm, around 20℃, and conditions are ideal for taking advantage of outdoor adventures and excursions. Many of Napier’s festivals cultural events take place during February, so be sure to book your cheap flights in advance. Airfares to Napier at the cheapest for travel during the winter months, between June and August. Take note of school holidays however, as flights and accommodation rates increase at these times.
Travelling to Napier Airports
Airlines that offer flights to Napier include Air New Zealand, Qantas and Jetstar. Direct flights are available from Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch.
Hawke’s Bay Airport (NPE)
Napier is serviced by Hawke’s Bay Airport (NPE), which is located 6 kilometres from the centre of the city. The airport’s traffic has increased to more than 600,000 passengers per year, and the airport is set to begin an extensive terminal expansion project in 2019. The best way of reaching the Hawke’s Bay Airport is booking a seat on one of two shuttle services: the Super Shuttle and Village Shuttle. These shuttles should be booked in advance, however some Napier accommodations may also offer free airport transfers. There are no public transport options, however, various taxi services operate between the airport and city CBD.
