10 Things To Do In Napier: Top Attractions & Activities Guide

Napier, on New Zealand’s North Island, is a coastal city with plenty to explore. Known for its wineries, waterfront views, and local food scene, it offers various outdoor activities and cultural experiences. With plenty of things to do in Napier, visitors can check out the National Aquarium of New Zealand or stroll along Marine Parade. The city hosts markets, festivals, and events throughout the year, adding to its appeal. It is also a great place to relax, explore, and enjoy what the region offers.

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Top 10 Things To Do In Napier

Listed below are the best things to do in Napier, for your next trip to this city of New Zealand:

1. Explore Art Deco Architecture

Image of a pink and white Art Deco Architecture, with dormer windows, and columns.

Photo: August Geyler / Wikimedia Commons

Napier was almost entirely rebuilt in the Art Deco style after the 1931 earthquake, making it a standout destination for architecture lovers. Walking through the city, visitors will see geometric patterns, pastel-coloured facades, and intricate detailing on buildings. Guided tours provide insights into the reconstruction and the cultural influences behind the designs.

Ideal Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Timings: Tours typically run between 10 AM – 3 PM
Location: Napier City Centre

2. Visit The National Aquarium Of New Zealand

Fishes in the National Aquarium of New Zealand, visiting this is one of the must things to do in Napier

Photo: Abdulmomen Bsruki / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

This aquarium houses a variety of marine life, from native New Zealand species to exotic fish, sharks, and stingrays. One of its main attractions is the tunnel walkway, where visitors can watch sea creatures swim overhead. The aquarium also has a kiwi enclosure, allowing guests to see the country’s famous nocturnal bird. Interactive exhibits and feeding sessions make it one of the great things to do in Napier for families or anyone interested in marine conservation.

Ideal Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Entry Fee: Adults ₹1,830, Children ₹830
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM daily
Location: 546 Marine Parade, Napier

3. Wine Tasting In Hawke’s Bay

Photo: Phillip Capper / Wikimedia Commons

Napier is part of Hawke’s Bay, one of New Zealand’s top wine regions, known for its Syrah, Chardonnay, and Pinot Gris. Visitors can tour wineries, sample different vintages, and enjoy meals at vineyard restaurants. Many wineries offer guided tastings that explain the region’s climate, soil, and winemaking techniques. Some tours also include cycling routes through the vineyards, combining wine tasting with a relaxed outdoor experience.

Ideal Duration: Half to full day
Timings: 10 AM – 4 PM

4. Hike Te Mata Peak

Image of green, grassy hills with rocky cliffs of Te Mata Peak, hiking here is one of the popular things to do in Napier.

Photo: Rodrigo.Argenton / Wikimedia Commons

Te Mata Peak offers sweeping views of Hawke’s Bay and the surrounding countryside. Several hiking trails lead to the top, ranging from easy walks to more challenging climbs. The peak is popular for sunrise and sunset hikes, where changing light adds to the atmosphere. Paragliding and mountain biking are also common activities in the area, making them popular things to do in Napier.

Ideal Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Entry Fee: N/A
Timings: Open year-round
Location: Te Mata Peak Road, Havelock North

5. Visit The Gannet Colony At Cape Kidnappers

Scenic view of the Gannet Colony At Cape Kidnappers during broad daylight

Photo: Pseudopanax / Wikimedia Commons

Cape Kidnappers is home to the world’s largest mainland gannet colony. The best way to see these seabirds is through guided tours, which take visitors along the coastline by vehicle or on foot. The tour includes stops at cliffside viewpoints where thousands of gannets nest and dive into the ocean for food. Along the way, guides share information about the birds and the area’s geological features.

Ideal Duration: Half day
Entry Fee: Varies by tour
Timings: Tours typically run between 9 AM – 3 PM

6. Stroll Through The Sunken Gardens

The Sunken Garden featuring symmetrical pathways, trimmed hedges, tall trees, and colourful flowers.

Photo: Pseudopanax / Wikimedia Commons

Located along Marine Parade, the Sunken Gardens provide a quiet space to take a break from sightseeing. The gardens feature well-kept flower beds, ponds, and sculptures, creating a pleasant place for a walk. Originally built as part of Napier’s post-earthquake reconstruction, the gardens have been maintained as a peaceful retreat for visitors and locals. Benches and shaded areas make it a good spot for a short rest or a casual picnic.

Ideal Duration: 30 minutes – 1 hour
Entry Fee: N/A
Location: Marine Parade, Napier

7. Cycle The Hawke’s Bay Trails

Image of the Hawke’s Bay trails, surrounded by greenery and trees, under a partly cloudy sky.

Photo: Lesbardd / Wikimedia Commons

Hawke’s Bay offers over 200 km of cycling trails that pass through vineyards, along coastlines, and beside rivers. Many visitors rent bikes to explore the trails at their own pace, with routes suitable for beginners and experienced cyclists alike. The Water Ride, Wineries Ride, and Landscapes Ride are among the most popular routes, making it one of the best things to do in Napier, New Zealand.

Entry Fee: Bike rental fees apply
Timings: Open year-round
Location: Various trails around Hawke’s Bay

8. Explore The MTG Hawke’s Bay Museum

View of Hawkes Bay Museum & Art Gallery entrance, highlighting symmetrical stairs and ornate architecture.

Photo: Tony Hisgett / Wikimedia Commons

This museum focuses on the history, art, and culture of Hawke’s Bay. Exhibits include artefacts from the 1931 earthquake, Maori heritage collections, and contemporary art pieces. The museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions, workshops, and talks. It’s an informative stop for those interested in learning more about the region’s past and artistic contributions.

Ideal Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Entry Fee: Adults ₹830, Children free
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM daily
Location: 1 Tennyson Street, Napier

9. Visit The Napier Prison

Image of H.M. Prison 1906 entrance, exploring this is one of the most unique things to do in Napier

Photo: Pseudopanax / Wikimedia Commons

Napier Prison, New Zealand’s oldest, operated from 1862 to 1993 and is now a museum. Self-guided audio tours tell stories of past inmates and life behind bars. Visitors can walk through the old cells, see the exercise yards, and learn about some of the country’s most infamous criminals. Night tours add an extra element for those interested in paranormal history, making it one of the most interesting and eclectic things to do in Napier, New Zealand.

Ideal Duration: 1–1.5 hours
Entry Fee: Adults ₹1,660, Children ₹830
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM daily
Location: 55 Coote Road, Napier

10. Relax At Ocean Spa

A spa setup featuring a massage table, pink flowers, and candles in Napier.

Photo: Pixabay / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Ocean Spa, located along Marine Parade, offers heated pools, spa treatments, and ocean views. Visitors can enjoy outdoor hot, hydrotherapy, and lap pools. The facility also has saunas and steam rooms, making it a good place to unwind after sightseeing. Day passes are available for families who want to spend a few hours soaking and relaxing.

Ideal Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Entry Fee: Adults ₹830, Children ₹580
Timings: 6 AM – 10 PM daily
Location: 42 Marine Parade, Napier

Napier, located on New Zealand’s North Island, offers a mix of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and local food and wine. Wine lovers can tour Mission Estate and Church Road wineries, while those interested in history can visit the Faraday Centre. Cycling trails, local markets, and Cape Kidnappers’ gannet colony add to the many things to do in Napier. Book your trip with TripXL and discover these amazing experiences.

Cover Photo: Phillip Capper / Wikimedia Commons

Things To Do In Napier: Your Complete Guide To Art, Wine And Coastal Charm