Napier

The ships dock at the Port of Napier. Just a 2 km pleasant walk following the shore.

Te Whiti (6 Wharf), completed in late 2022. The expansion allows Napier Port to accommodate some of the world’s largest cruise vessels, including the Oasis-class liners.

Taxis are generally available at the pier.

It is not allowed to walk on the pier due to port's safety regulation. There is a free shuttle bus. Where the bus stops, there are a lot of locals offering various tours etc.

Printable map to take along.

Napier was leveled by an earthquake in 1931, and the entire city was rebuilt in the Art Deco style.

Napier is a very small town with only a couple of main streets.

Supported by a Mediterranean climate and over 2,200 hours of sunshine a year this popular year-round destination boasts a vibrant cafe culture amongst the splendor of the Art Deco buildings. Around 30 cafes are within walking distance of the central city area, while Ahuriri, just over Bluff Hill, is home to a further cluster of up-market establishments.

Napier oozes fun and adventure and a visit to the attractions of Marine Parade is a must. Marine Parade overlooks the Pacific Ocean and out towards Cape Kidnappers, home to the worlds largest mainland gannet colony.

Par 2 - MiniGolf is perfectly located on Marine Parade, "by the Soundshell, beside the Sea". Two 18 hole MiniGolf courses are designed both for fun and for those with a competitive edge. With panoramic views of Hawke Bay and the Pacific Ocean, and Napier's wonderful Art Deco architecture alongside, the setting is spectacular for a game (or two) of miniature golf.

A full day can be taken visiting Ocean Spa hot pools and swimming complex, the Hawkes Bay Museum, the National Aquarium of New Zealand.

A landmark of Napier is Bluff Hill, which is home for many Napier residents and provides views of the town beaches of Perfume Point and Westshore, past the newly upgraded airport and out towards Whirinaki. Bluff Hill also overlooks the Port of Napier, one of New Zealands busiest ports, transporting timber, local fruit and meat products to worldwide destinations.

Soundshell and Pania of the Reef. One of the most photographed landmarks in New Zealand, Pania is a figure of Maori mythology, and a symbol of Napier. She is located on Napier's Marine Parade, a short stroll from the city center.

Pop into one of the information centers or Official National i-SITE Visitor centers to pick up a brochure, book a tour or just grab some friendly advice from one of the knowledgeable local staff.

The biggest natural attraction in the vicinity of Napier is the colony of Australasian gannets at Cape Kidnappers. This is the world's largest mainland gannet colony. Usually these large sea birds breed only on isolated islands; Cape Kidnappers provides a unique opportunity to see them up close.

Take Route 12 for Napier-Hastings, and Route 13 to access Taradale where many of the local wineries are located.

Most stores stay open when cruise ships are in town.

The Napier Business District, approximately one mile from the port, is the main shopping area. Wines are very popular items in this famous wine region. At Classic Decor you will find products ranging from bed covers to bicycle seat covers, foot warmers and sheepskin rugs.

The New Zealand dollar is used in New Zealand. A few traders do accept foreign currency, particularly in tourist destinations. The conversion from US dollars to NZ dollars is approximately US$1=NZD1.30.

Automatic teller machines (ATMs), locally known as 'the hole in the wall', are available in just about every town.

English, Maori and New Zealand Sign Language are the official languages of New Zealand. English is universal, and is written with Commonwealth ("British") spelling.

The emergency telephone number in New Zealand is 111.

Many public libraries have public Internet access. Generally there is a charge.