Located in New Zealand’s Hawkes Bay region, Napier has the largest concentration of buildings in the Art Deco style than any other city in the world. So, architecture enthusiasts, especially those with an interest in the Art Deco style, will find this city irresistible. Napier is served by
Hawkes Bay Airport, which is located in Westshore just a few kilometers outside of town.
Napier is home to New Zealand’s oldest prison, which has since been closed to the public and there are several tour groups that operate themed tours of
Napier Prison. As the building has also served as an insane asylum and an orphanage, it’s easy to understand why the spooky night tours of the prison are also a popular tourist activity. More brightly, take a stroll around the
Napier Soundshell, eventually ending up at the statue of
Pania on the Reef, one of the most famous landmarks of New Zealand. According to Maori mythology, Pania was a beautiful young maiden who lived in the sea, and at sunset would travel to the area which is now Napier and sit among the bushes to take her rest. This statue is one of the most photographed landmarks in New Zealand, and a symbol for the city of Napier.
The
National Aquarium of New Zealand is one of the largest in the country, offering a complete underwater experience for visitors. The aquarium covers everything about the country’s marine life, including the country’s shores and the environment which surrounds the marine life. It’s a great attractions for all visitors to this city, especially recommended for oceanography enthusiasts.
Find out where the rest of Napier’s hotels, attractions, and must-see destinations are located by exploring the interactive map on this page.
