Napier's Pier area
by Kate-Me
Several minutes from Napier by car, Napier's pier is kind of set near wetlands and a kind of 'back beach' which I believe was created when the harbour was changed as a consequence of the earthquake.
We were staying just down the road a little bit from it, or wouldn't have discovered it at all.
It's where the Waitangi Day festivities were held.
Gannet colony...
by dragontml
Bird enthusiasts should plan to visit nearby Cape Kidnapper Gannet Reserve: Gannets (related to pelicans) nest there from October to April. Contains the largest, most accessible mainland colony in the world.
Art Deco Tour
by jono84
Of all the things to do in Napier, particularly if you have limited time, you have to make sure you get to the Art Deco Tour. Its pretty cheap, normally several tours run each day, and the tours are all run by volunteers - and believe they know what theyre talking about when it comes to Napier and its history!! Its so refreshing to see so many people so enthusiastic about their town, and keen to tell the world about it!
The tours kick off from different places, but you can find out all the info from the Information Centre (naturally!) or the Deco Centre (which is the official base for all Art Deco tours around the city). Our tour started at the Soundshell on Marine Parade, and took us around all the streets in the centre, finishing at the Deco Centre itself for refreshments and an interesting video on the famous earthquake, and more info on what Art Deco actually is, and where you can spot it in and around the city. I thoroughly recommend, and the whole jazz is run by very friendly people who are happy to answer any plaguing questions, and generally there to make you feel welcome.
The Deco Centre also has a good gift shop - so i also recommend this as THE place to get you souvenirs - from Deco posters to Deco Tablemats (uck!)
Marine Parade
by TomorrowsAngel
Marine Parade is worth the walk down and back again. Lots of gardens, fountains, memorials and scullptures line both sides. Oh, and of course there's the goregeous blue sea also!
My favourite statue is Pania, a Maori girl (at the northern end of the Parade).
ART DECO CITY
by balhannah
"NAPIER"
Located in Hawkes Bay, Napier was rebuilt in the Art Deco style in the
1930"s after an earthquake and fires demolished it.
About 250 people died.
The fertile valleys surrounding the city are used for vineyards and
market gardening, with further away, for Sheep farming.
Its a pleasant city to walk around by yourself or on a guided tour.
We thought this city was beautiful, and well worth a visit.