If you are visiting New Zealand anytime soon, then put the city of Napier on your itinerary as there are myriad things to do in Napier. Rebuilt from the earthquake, Napier is a coastal city in the Hawke’s Bay renowned for its winemaking regions and Deco art and architecture. Whether you want to go on a sightseeing tour like a tourists or venture into nature and wilderness, Napier offers you all. It is also a great place to know and experience the fascinating Maori culture. While you are at it, make sure you visit the neighboring town of Hastings too which is equally fun.
Things To Do In Napier New Zealand
Here are some of the top experiences in Napier that you should have to make the best of your time here:
1. Marine Parade
One of the best things to do in Napier for free is taking a walk along Marine Parade. The walkway along the sea gives you breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. No wonder, it is Hawke’s Bay’s jewel in the crown. Originally, a seawall was erected to avoid flooding in the area which has now become the current day Marine Parade Road. You will find a number of tourists and locals wandering around. It is a favorite place among families.
Duration: 1-2 hours
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2. Wine Tour
In case you did not know, Napier is also one of the popular wine-making regions in Hawke’s Bay. If you are visiting this part of New Zealand, one of the things to do around Napier, New Zealand is to go on a wine tour. For those who are big-time wine connoisseurs should definitely sign up for one of these events. Not only will you get to taste some of the amazing wines, but also admire the beauty of vineyards. You can also rent a car and hop one vineyard from another on your own if you wish to do things on your time.
Duration: whole day
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3. Maori Cultural Tour
A trip to New Zealand is your chance to know the Maori culture from up close and personal. The early settlers of New Zealand are known as Maoris and these indigenous people may have a thing or two to tell you about their rich cultural heritage. Enjoy dancing with the Maori tribe and visit the significant Maori sites in the village of Waimarama. A path offbeat, it is definitely one of the unique things to do in Napier.
4. White Water Rafting
Do you enjoy wilderness experience? If yes, then white water rafting on Mohaka River may just be one of the most thrilling and fun things to do in Napier. A Grade 3 or 5 river rafting, this is a perfect venture for experienced rafters. Apart from epic rapids, the experience also includes cliff jumps, waterfalls, tunnels, and river floats. Give a boost to yourself if your adrenaline levels begin to lower on your trip to New Zealand.
Duration: 2-3 hours
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5. Climbing
If you love adventure activities like climbing, then you are in for a treat. Located in Te Mata Park at the height of 399 m, the peak offers you the most bewildering views of nature from the top. Be careful as your jaw might drop down to the floor. Bring your camera along for how else would you be able to boast about the stunning views. Plus, it is free too which gives you all the more reason to climb the peak. Climbing Te Mata Peak is a great adventurous activity outdoors and one of the best free things to do in Napier.
Duration: 3-4 hours
6. Biking
Another one of the fun things to do in Napier is to explore the biking trails. The whole of NewZealand is blessed with an abundance of nature which is why it is regarded as an adventure nation. Napier in New Zealand is no less. If you enjoy biking and exploring the offbeat trails, you might be just in for a treat. Take a bike ride along the coast or take your bike up to Te Mata Peak if you are a pro. You can even explore the wine regions around Napier on your bike. The trail is truly breathtaking.
Duration: 5-6 hours
7. Art Deco Tour
One of the most amazing things to do in Napier for all art lovers out there is to take an Art Deco Tour around the city. For those who don’t know, Art Deco is a form of visual arts and design that is believed to have appeared first in France before the Wolrd War I. Napier just happens to be a town built with art deco architecture. The best way to explore is to take an Art Deco Tour. You can either join a guided tour or take a brochure from Art Deco Centre and go on a self-tour around the city.
Duration: 3-4 hours
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8. Splash Planet
Who doesn’t like amusement parks? If you do too, then head to Splash Planet, an amusement and water park located in Hastings New Zealand. Have unlimited fun and frolic on the water rides and dry attractions. Be it kids or adults, water parks are favorite place across all age groups. If you are wondering about all the fun things to do in Napier Hastings, then this definitely should cross your mind.
Location: 1001 Grove Rd, Parkvale, Hastings 4201, New Zealand
Timings: Sat-Sun 10 AM – 5:30 PM
9. Hawke’s Bay Farmers Market
Enjoy having the local produce in the local farmer markets in Napier where you will find delicacies made from the farm-fresh produce. It is one of the best ways to explore Napier like a local. This is also where you will find the perfect souvenirs from your New Zealand trip. Come here in the morning to enjoy live music and street entertainment.
Timings: 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM on Sundays only
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10. Hiking
One of the most refreshing things to do in Napier New Zealand is to explore nature this town is blessed. Go on a Cape Kidnapper’s Walk which is 5-6 hours of hiking. The trail begins from the small village of Clifton and you are greeted with alluring views of coastal points and the world’s largest mainland gannet colony along the trail. The hike is only accessible during the low tide season so plan your trip accordingly.
11. Cape Kidnapper Bird Watching
Cape Kidnappers is one of the best places to visit in Hawke’s Bay for birdwatching. Here you will find the largest gannet colony in the world. Visit during the low tide season to enjoy the best of coastline views. A large number of gannets flock to the coast and it is an amazing sight to see. This is among the most interesting things to do in Napier’s Hawkes Bay.
12. Paddle Boating
With amazing water bodies in its geography, New Zealand is one of the best places to indulge in water sports adventure. Enjoy paddle boarding activity, especially SUP (Stand-Up Paddle Boarding) in Napier. The local beaches and harbours are the best places to experience this sport. Indulging in this sport is one of the top things to do in Napier.
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13. Bluff Hill
Enjoy the amazing views from the top of Bluff Hill in New Zealand. The splendid sights offered from here form a great frame for photography. You would spot the World War II Battery. Port Napier and the entire Napier City looks absolutely breathtaking from the zenith of Bluff Hill. A visit to Bluff Hill is one of the best things to do in Napier for families.
14. Otatara Pa
Pa refers to the fortified villages of Maori. And Otatara Pa is one of the last pa sites that are remaining. Take a walk through the region to enjoy the wonderful ancient archaeological remains and also witness the views around it. The walk-through is about 45 minutes long.
Further Read: Snorkeling In New Zealand: 6 Best Places To Swim Through Ultimate Joy!
This extensive list of things to do in Napier will come in handy on your trip to New Zealand. Just like all other cities in New Zealand, Napier too has an abundance of experiences to offer to its visitors. Make sure you check all these things off the list to have the best time in Napier.
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If some people enjoy window-shopping, Dhaarna takes pleasure in day-dreaming about solo trips when she’s not working. A gypsy at heart, she likes to spend her money on vacations, plants, and all things boho.
