Overview
Napier sits on the sunny shores of Hawke's Bay, on the east coast of New Zealand's North Island. Rebuilt in striking Art Deco style after the 1931 earthquake, it is one of the world's most complete Deco cities, wrapped around a palm-lined seafront and backed by acclaimed vineyards. There are no direct flights from the UK, so every trip means a connection through a major hub plus a short domestic hop.
Best time to fly to Napier
New Zealand's seasons are the reverse of the UK's. Hawke's Bay is among the country's driest, sunniest regions, so summer (December to February) brings beach weather, the wine harvest and peak fares, and February's Art Deco Festival sells out early. For better value, target the shoulder months of October to November or March to April, when days are mild and crowds thinner. Winter (June to August) is cool but rarely harsh, and usually the cheapest time to travel. See the When to book chart above for seasonal price trends.
Airlines and routes
Reaching Napier from the UK is a two-stage trip. First fly to Auckland with a one-stop carrier such as Emirates via Dubai, Qatar Airways via Doha, Singapore Airlines via Singapore or Cathay Pacific via Hong Kong. From London, Auckland takes around 24 to 26 hours including one stop; from Manchester, usually via a Gulf or Asian hub, allow roughly 26 to 28 hours. Air New Zealand then flies Auckland to Napier (Hawke's Bay Airport) in about 55 minutes, with connections also from Wellington and Christchurch.
Things to do in Napier
Compact and walkable, Napier rewards slow wandering between its Deco facades, seafront and nearby wine country.
- Art Deco Quarter: pastel 1930s streetscapes around Tennyson and Emerson Streets, best seen on a guided walk.
- Marine Parade: a palm-lined seafront promenade with gardens, the Sound Shell and the Pania of the Reef statue.
- National Aquarium of New Zealand: kiwi, sharks, rays and native species, right on the waterfront.
- Hawke's Bay wineries: some of the country's oldest vineyards, known for Syrah and Chardonnay, a short drive or cycle away.
- Te Mata Peak: a short drive inland for sweeping views over the bay and farmland.
At Hawke's Bay Airport (NPE)
Hawke's Bay Airport sits about 8 km north of the city centre, a 10 to 15 minute drive. It is domestic-only, so you arrive on a connecting flight from within New Zealand. Taxis and door-to-door shuttles meet arrivals, and all the major car hire firms have terminal desks, which is ideal for touring the wineries, coast and the nearby towns of Hastings and Havelock North.
Top tips for finding cheap flights to Napier
- Book early for the NZ summer: fares for December to February and the Art Deco Festival climb months ahead, so booking six to ten months out usually pays off.
- Travel off-peak: shoulder seasons and mid-week departures, away from UK school holidays, tend to be cheaper, and the price charts on this page help you spot the best windows.
- Compare hubs and carriers: fares via Dubai, Doha, Singapore and Hong Kong vary widely, and the Auckland to Napier leg is often cheaper booked with your main ticket.
Travel essentials
UK passport holders do not need a visa for visits of up to six months, but must request an NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) before travelling and pay the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy at the same time; the NZeTA is usually valid for two years. Your passport should be valid for at least three months beyond your departure date. The currency is the New Zealand dollar (NZD), cards are widely accepted, and comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended.
