The 1931 Napier earthquake and a subsequent fire destroyed much of the downtown business area. When this area was rebuilt, it was reconstructed in the prevailing '''Art Deco''' style. The demolition rubble was dumped along the eastern foreshore and turned into gardens and a recreational reserve.
The earthquake also raised the land by several metres. The airport and low lying land in the suburb of '''Pandora''' was previously an estuary. Some of the streets in the area have retained their original street type names that they had when they were on the coastline. Although the street may be called a ''quay'' or a ''bay'' it may be inland now.
Taxis are relatively inexpensive and can take you anywhere, anytime. The public transport system however can be a little confusing and unreliable. A new company recently took over the bus service and routes will likely be subject to change.
For some lovely free and relaxing activities, visit the golden sanded southern Hawkes Bay beaches. '''Waimarama''' and '''Ocean Beach''' are located approximately 30min south of Napier by car and are local retreats in the summer months. These long sandy beaches cater for surfing, fishing, and long walks to check out the native habitat.
'''Cape Kidnappers''' is at the southern tip of '''Hawke Bay''' where you will find a colony of Ganets. These Ganets migrate seasonally and are popular with tourists during the season. You can jump on a trailer towed by tractors to reach the Cape, run by a local business out of the small community called Te Awanga. Bookings and information about these tours are available from the information centre.
'''Depart Napier 1pm ? Return 5pm'''
Visit 4 ? 5 local wineries Tour Includes Taste Syrah, Merlot, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and much more Some of New Zealand's finest cheeses matched with wine Walk amongst the vines and learn about Terroir Winery tour can be arranged if requested when booking We like to keep our tours as flexible as possible and always set time aside for people wanting to take time for a winery lunch. We start half an hour earlier if lunch is requested. _gHighly recommended_h
Accommodation is abundant in Napier and the surrounding area and ranges from luxury to budget; hotels, self-catering apartments, motels and lodges (some with restaurants), homestay; holiday parks and motor camps with self-catering units, budget cabins and campsites. There is also a beachfront youth hostel for backpackers. Families and groups welcome at most establishments; seasonal and group discounts may apply.
It pays to ring and book in advance for several places due to regional events like Art Deco weekend. Such events are very popular and accommodation can be scarce during these events.
Just north of Napier past the airport is the '''Esk Valley'''. This is an area that is now mainly orchard, vineyards and a lavender farm. The area is peaceful but only 10 minutes from the bars and restaurants of Napier. It provides a good place to stay for those who want to experience New Zealand country life or stay on a vineyard. There are numerous accommodation options including Esk Valley Lodge which is a renovated house of character formed from one of the original homesteads in the valley.