Napier & Hastings
Napier is located in the Hawke’s Bay, on the east coast of the North Island. Situated on the coast-line, Napier is well known for its 1930s preserved architecture and Art Deco buildings. In 1931, a massive earthquake caused the death of 260 people and the destruction of the commercial centre of Napier. The buildings that were built post earthquake were in styles of the time, such as Stripped Classical, Spanish Mission and Art Deco. It’s a great idea to just walk/wheel around Napier and take a look at the streetscape. You can also do guided walks from the information centre. If you are there in February, it is worth looking at the Art Deco festival which celebrates all things 1930s from fashion to cars to music.
Hastings is one of two major urban centres in Hawke’s Bay on New Zealand’s east coast. The region’s key focus is food production, with many stone fruit, kiwifruit and vegetables coming from the area. Red wine is also produced widely in the area. The centre of Hastings has many open spaces for people to relax in alongside a number of restaurants, cafes and bars. In Clive Square, you can find a collection of Māori carvings called Ngā Pou o Heretaunga, which each represent a significant Māori ancestor from the Heretaunga district.
