Best of Napier City

Napier City's Art Deco & Coastal Gems

Napier was largely rebuilt in the 1930s following a catastrophic earthquake, resulting in one of the world's most concentrated collections of Art Deco architecture. This list highlights heritage landmarks like the National Tobacco Company building and the Municipal Theatre alongside the coastal attractions of Marine Parade. It also features New Zealand's oldest wineries, including Mission Estate and Church Road, alongside cultural institutions like the National Aquarium.

Napier Municipal Theatre

Opened in 1938, this Art Deco landmark features an auditorium with distinctive neon lighting and preserved period architectural details.

National Aquarium of New Zealand

Located on Marine Parade, this facility houses an oceanarium with a travelator tunnel, a Little Penguin colony, and various native New Zealand species.

National Tobacco Company building

Designed by Louis Hay and completed in 1933, this Ahuriri landmark combines Art Deco and Art Nouveau styles, featuring elaborate floral motifs and a domed entrance.

Waiapu Cathedral of Saint John the Evangelist,

St John's Cathedral, Napier, officially the Waiapu Cathedral of Saint John the Evangelist, is an Anglican cathedral church, located in…

AMP Building

A 1934 Art Deco structure designed by Gummer and Ford, noted for its geometric facade and prominent corner position in the city center.

The Cabana

A historic live music venue housed in an Art Deco building, known for hosting local and international acts since the mid-20th century.

Bistronomy

A restaurant focusing on Hawke’s Bay seasonal produce and modern culinary techniques, located within the central Art Deco precinct.

Indigo

An Indian restaurant situated in a heritage building, offering a menu that blends traditional flavors with local ingredients.

Alexander Klink / CC BY 3.0

Tom Parker Fountain

An Art Deco fountain on Marine Parade that features a rotating sequence of colored lights during the evening.

Community Arts Centre

A public gallery space showcasing works by local Hawke's Bay artists, located within a historic central city building.

Quay Gallery

A contemporary art gallery representing New Zealand painters and sculptors, featuring rotating exhibitions and original works.

Toad Hall Backpackers

Budget accommodation situated in a converted heritage building within walking distance of the city's central architectural landmarks.

Phuntsok Choeling Budhist Centre

A center for Tibetan Buddhist practice and meditation, located in a building reflecting the city's architectural heritage.

Mission Estate Winery

Established by French missionaries in 1851, this is New Zealand's oldest winery, featuring a restored seminary building and underground cellars.

Church Road Winery

Founded in 1897, this winery includes a cellar door, a wine museum located in former underground vats, and extensive grounds.

Reading Cinemas

A multi-screen cinema complex located in the city center providing modern screening facilities for international releases.

Napier i-SITE

The central visitor information center on Marine Parade, providing maps, booking services, and local travel advice.

Sunken Gardens

A landscaped garden area on Marine Parade built below street level, featuring seasonal floral displays and sheltered seating.