Where to stay in Napier & Hawke’s Bay – A Guide to New Zealand’s Wine Region
Napier is a city located in the Hawke’s Bay of New Zealand, on the east coast of the North Island.
It is a city with a dry, temperate climate, mainly oceanic, so it can be visited throughout the entire year.
Napier is located on one of the world’s most active tectonic fault lines, so it was nearly destroyed by an earthquake in 1931.
It was then that city planners began to rebuild it, turning it into the “art deco world capital.”
Napier has an airport located approximately 10 minutes from the city centre. This air terminal is the main gateway to the city, but it is also possible to get to Napier by land and by sea.
The centre of Napier is very pedestrian-friendly, but it is also possible to rent a car to move between its areas.
Among the things worth seeing in Napier are Hawke’s Bay with its natural attractions, the port, Te Mata Peak and Elephant Hill.
One of the best ways to enjoy the Napier urban landscape is a walk through its centre, where the most emblematic attractions of the city are located.
In addition, the city centre is the best area to stay in Napier for its hotels of all kinds, variety of restaurants and bars. (See accommodation in Napier city centre).
Here’s a guide with the best areas to stay in Napier, New Zealand.
The Best Areas to Stay in Napier & Hawke’s Bay
1. Our Favourite Area: Napier City Centre
Napier city centre is a small but visually beautiful place.
Its main attractions are its gorgeous art deco buildings, especially attractive to architecture lovers.
In this area, there are restaurants, bars, banks and shops of different categories that are, for the most part, located in buildings of that style.
The centre of Napier is the most important area of Hawke’s Bay, where its main seaport is located, surrounded by lanes that are suitable for cycling or walking, especially during the sunset.
This is the best area to stay in Napier for being the heart of the city and for having excellent public transport connections and hotels of all kinds.
In addition, here, there are also galleries and museums that allow you to learn about the history of the city.
Why is this a recommended area to stay in Napier & Hawke’s Bay:
- Best area for sightseeing
- Art decó architecture
- Heart of the city
Accommodation in this area
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Top Choice
expressotel
Located across from picturesque Clive Square, Expressotel is a 7-minute walk from the Marine Parade Boardwalk. It offers modern rooms with a flat-screen TV. Guests enjoy free WiFi.
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Budget
Toad Hall Backpackers
Toad Hall Backpackers is located a 10-minute walk from the centRE of Napier and has a rooftop terrace with barbecue facilities. The property has a shared kitchen and a common lounge area.
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Luxury
Scenic Hotel Te Pania
Scenic Hotel Te Pania is located on the seafront at Marine Parade and overlooks Hawke’s Bay. It offers a restaurant with indoor and outdoor dining, as well as rooms with large windows and beautiful views of the sea. Free WiFi is also available.
2. Hastings
Hastings is another town in Hawke’s Bay that is located about 32 kilometres from Napier and is known for being an agricultural area.
It is a place that stands out for its green areas and mountain peaks that attract many visitors who enjoy nature and hiking.
Here is Splash Planet, New Zealand’s largest water park.
Other important places to visit in Hastings are Cape Kidnappers and Te Mata Peak.
Reaching this nature reserve is only possible by car or taxi.
Hastings is a good area to stay in Hawke’s Bay for those who practice trekking and or seek peace in the midst of nature.
Why is this a recommended area to stay in Hawke’s Bay:
- Splash Planet
- Green spaces
- Peaceful area
3. Te Awanga
Te Awanga is located south of the bay, on the coast, offering the opportunity to do bird watching, as well as enjoying spectacular views.
This city is surrounded by shops, cafes and wineries, while its beach is suitable for fishing, swimming and sailing.
Te Awanga is also home to a popular farm petting zoo, ideal for those visiting the area with children.
This city is about 20 minutes from Napier and Hastings and is one of the best areas to stay in Hawke’s Bay. However, it must be taken into account that there are not as many accommodation options and, therefore, it is advisable to book a hotel in advance.
Why is this a recommended area to stay in Hawker’s Bay:
- Good area for outdoor activities
- Chep accommodation
- Good area for family trips
4. Havelock North
Havelock North is a rural town in Hawke’s Bay that stands out for its orchards, vineyards, and bee honey production.
On the lower slopes of its hills, there are elegant houses and an interesting artistic community.
Here is Keirunga Gardens, with many souvenir shops and Maori folk art.
A curious fact is that Havelock is on Te Mata Peak, a hill of about 400 metres that, according to traditional Maori history, is the body of the giant Te Mata.
In this area, there are many pedestrian trails for trekking lovers.
It is a very quiet area, away from the hustle and bustle of big cities.
Havelock North is one of the best areas to stay in Hawke’s Bay if you want to take a break from the daily routine and be close to nature.
Why is this a recommended area to stay in Hawke’s Bay:
- Peaceful area
- Keirunga Gardens
- Boutique-type hotels
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