Sample the finer things in life in a beautiful region where the stunning Art Deco city of Napier nestles between the blue Pacific and the sun-bleached hills of wine country.

Take a stroll through a charming seaside city where the fresh whites of perfectly preserved Art Deco buildings contrast a blue sky. From Marine Parade lined with Norfolk Pines to the boutiques and café culture of the CBD, Napier is easily one of New Zealand’s most appealing destinations. Venture beyond the main centre and you’ll quickly discover this region is generously blessed. One of the sunniest parts of the country, Hawke’s Bay is the oldest wine-growing region in New Zealand and it remains a top producer of stunning wines. Add excellent hiking and mountain biking, and a stunning cliff-top golf course, and you have the recipe for an unforgettable holiday.

DESTINATION-NZ.COM HIGHLIGHTS

Take a walk through streets bursting with Art Deco architecture. Get a dose of history with your Merlot, sampling the latest in a long line of vintages at New Zealand’s oldest winery. Get up-close with the residents at Cape Kidnapper’s Gannet Colony – these elegant seabirds are unafraid of their human visitors.

NOTABLE CULTURE

Over 150 years ago, Hawke’s Bay’s French Catholic missionaries planted grapes to produce sacramental and table wine. Today, Mission Vineyards is the oldest surviving wine producer in New Zealand.

MOMENT IN HISTORY

At 10:30am on 3 February 1931, Napier was hit by a devastating earthquake measuring 7.9 on the Richter Scale. The town was virtually levelled and over 3,600 hectares of coastline was thrust upward several feet. The rebuilding of the town resulted in the collection of Art Deco architecture that makes Napier famous today.

THE ICONIC EXPERIENCE

Take a walking tour and let an expert introduce you to the Art Deco city of Napier – nowhere else can you see such a variety of buildings in this unmistakable style.

Plan your trip with a detailed map of this region and peruse our suggested travel itinerary. Read More Sights, activities and top picks to make planning easier. Read More