Napier

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Napier Regional Information

Napier is a significant port city in the Hawke's Bay region, one of the largest apple, pear and stone fruit producing areas in New Zealand. The region is now also famed for growing grapes, with a large number of vineyards producing award winning Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon wines. Napier provides the point of departure for much of the region's produce and other exports, such as wool, timber and frozen meat.

Historically, the site of present day Napier was settled by Maori hundreds of years ago and was home to the Ngati Kahungunu tribe, one of the first tribes to come into contact with Europeans. The future site of Napier was first seen by Europeans in 1769, when Captain James Cook sailed along the coastline of New Zealand's North Island. European traders, whalers and missionaries later established a settlement at Napier. For those interested in the history of the city and the region, a visit to the Hawke's Bay Museum is well worthwhile.

Today, history is still a vital part of Napier's identity. Having been leveled by a powerful earthquake on February 3rd, 1931, the destroyed city was rebuilt in the Art Deco style, which was the predominant style of the time. By the 1990's, the town was recognised as being a unique and architecturally important site, and its buildings were protected and restored. The town itself has become its own tourist attraction, drawing many visitors who enjoy a walking tour of the city's Art Deco facades and structures. In February, the city hosts the Brebner Print Art Deco Weekend, an informal celebration offering wine and fine food, jazz music and dancing, films and theatre productions.

In the same month, the city celebrates its fine wine and gourmet food at Harvest Hawkes Bay, and event offering three days of wine tasting and tours, concerts, culinary feasts, workshops and live music.

Navigate with our great Napier map to stay on the right track and find what you're looking for when traveling in the region. While you're on the road, be prepared for all seasons with weather forecasts, reports and current information on Napier weather.

For more information on events and attractions in Napier, visit the Hawke's Bay information site.