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Napier is an urban gem! The
sun drenched city of 56,000 can lay claim to being the sunniest spot in the
North Island, being New Zealand’s wine capital, and one of the best
preserved art deco cities in the world.
The art deco origins of Napier
result from a devastating earthquake which practically destroyed the city
and the surrounding area in 1931. The airport and several suburbs are now
built on land that rose up to 8 feet from the harbour. The earthquake gave
architects an opportunity to rebuild the city in the contemporary designs of
the period – art deco; which has been lovingly preserved.
The surrounding Hawkes Bay region produces excellent wine, the soils and
climate harmonising to produce perfect conditions for chardonnay, pinot noir
and many other grape varieties. No visit to the area is complete without
sampling the fruit of the vine at one of the many world class vineyards a
short drive from town.
Napier is also home to the New Zealand tobacco
industry the perfect conditions ideal for tobacco cultivation.
Napier’s maritime outlook is reflected in the many superb attractions
such as Marineland, the National Aquarium and the harbour developments at
Ahuriri.
With reasonably priced accommodation, numerous attractions and a
great climate, Napier makes a perfect destination, especially as a stopover
if you are travelling by road from Auckland to
Wellington.
For more
information visit the tourism visitor centre. For Napier accommodation
click here: |
