An Art Deco Amble -- The city of Napier is virtually a museum of Art Deco and Spanish mission architecture, built from 1931 to 1933, after the earthquake. Some 80 years later, the buildings are remarkably unchanged. A map outlining a 1 1/2- to 2-hour self-guided walk through the downtown area and another showing a more extensive scenic drive are available for NZ$5 each at the visitor center and at the Art Deco Shop, 163 Tennyson St. (tel. 06/835-0022; www.artdeconapier.com), which is open daily from 9am to 5pm (closed Dec 25), and is stocked with a wide range of brochures and terrific Art Deco gifts.
Guided walking tours run all year. Bookings are not necessary; just go to the Art Deco Shop and inquire about the next tour. The 1-hour Morning Walk leaves from the visitor center daily at 10am (except Dec 25). It includes an Art Deco booklet and ends at the Art Deco Shop, where you can watch a video. This walk is NZ$16 for adults, free for children ages 5 to 15. The Afternoon Walk begins at the Art Deco Shop at 2pm, daily from October through June and on Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday from July to September. The 2-hour program includes an introductory slide presentation, an Art Deco booklet, and a 1 1/2-hour walk. The cost is NZ$21 for adults. A 1-hour vintage car tour of Art Deco landmarks in a 1934 Buick costs NZ$140, maximum three people. Ask about the Evening Walk (NZ$20) and the Deco Bus Tour (NZ$40). You'll find more Art Deco and a whole cluster of boutique stores, restaurants, cafes, and accommodations over at the portside village of Ahuriri (www.ahuriri.co.nz). Just follow Marine Parade around past the port and follow the signs. The visitor center also has an Ahuriri brochure detailing businesses and attractions. If you'd like to explore the Spanish Mission architecture of Hastings, take the 1-hour guided walking tour that leaves from the Hastings i-SITE Visitor Centre every Saturday at 11am from October through May (or by appointment). It costs NZ$12 per person. You can book at the visitor center, or just show up on the day.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
