New Zealand in Focus

 

 

Napier: The Art Deco Discovery

Napier is New Zealand’s art deco capital and a stunning location at any time of the year. Arts, culture and wine combine with fantastic iconic events to create a destination unlike any other.

 

As well as the many favourites for visiting this area, including the National Aquarium of New Zealand and the beauty of Cape Kidnappers with its gannet colonies, there are plenty of options to suit any traveller.

 

What to do:

Rock on: April 2017 sees one of America’s favourite country rock bands The Dixie Chicks arrive in New Zealand for one concert only at the iconic Mission Estate Concert. This annual event pulls in the big guns each year, with past performances from Rod Stewart, Barry Gibb, Ronan Keating, Sting, Tom Jones, Boney M and more. A huge event on the Hawke’s Bay calendar and not to be missed.

 

Where to indulge:

A good drop: The Hawke’s Bay region is home to more than 100 vineyards, 70 wineries and dozens of cellar doors. Some of the country’s best wines are produced here, including Church Road, Craggy Range, Ngatarawa Wines and Sileni Estate. The range of wines to sample across the cellar doors is huge and many are award-winning. Many of the vineyards come complete with exquisite dining experiences too, making the region a fantastic food and wine destination.

 

Something a bit fun: On Yer Bike winery tours offer just that – a chance to visit some great wineries on bike. Hire a mountain bike or a tandem bike for added fun, and visit up to seven local wineries from their base. Pack your own lunch or a platter can be organised at one of the cellar doors. Your wine purchases can be collected by the On Yer Bike team as you go, while you enjoy the sunshine and wind in your hair.

 

What to experience:

Go back in time: As the Art Deco capital of New Zealand, Napier is home to some of the most spectacular 1930s style architecture. Having had entire streets and suburbs rebuilt following a large earthquake in 1931. Held in February each year, the Art Deco Festival has 126 events over four days, creating fabulous entertainment from a by gone era. Dress to impress, or simply take in the sights as vintage cars take over the streets, fashion from the day returns, and the glitz and glamour come alive. From cabarets to black tie balls; vintage picnics and high teas; cheeky burlesque and solemn commemorations, the festival really does have something for everyone.

 

 

For more information on the Napier visit Hawkes’s Bay Tourism

Photo credits: Hawke’s Bay Tourism  &  Art Deco Trust

 

See Member Rewards in the Napier region