Art Deco Trust Napier
Napier's Art Deco Trust preserves and showcases the city's unique architectural heritage, rebuilt after the 1931 earthquake.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Immerse in the vibrant Art Deco Festival.
Art Deco Trust Napier
Best Time
Immerse in the vibrant Art Deco Festival.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Napier's Art Deco Trust preserves and showcases the city's unique architectural heritage, rebuilt after the 1931 earthquake.
"A superlative tour experiencing the art deco buildings and a fabulous ride in the vintage cars!"
Book Tours in Advance
Highly recommended to book walking or vintage car tours with the Art Deco Trust to learn about Napier's history. [:ticket:]
Look Up for Details
Napier's Art Deco magic is in the details; don't forget to look up at the stunning architecture! [:camerawithflash:]
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Art Deco Walking Tour
Napier City
Discover Napier's unique Art Deco architecture with passionate guides sharing stories of the 1931 earthquake and rebuilding.
Vintage Car Tour
Napier City
Cruise through Napier in a classic 1930s car, experiencing the city's heritage in style with knowledgeable drivers.
Art Deco Festival
Napier City
An annual celebration of all things Art Deco, featuring dressing up, vintage cars, music, and a vibrant atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Art Deco Adventure
+1Embrace the Vintage Vibe
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Tours in Advance
Highly recommended to book walking or vintage car tours with the Art Deco Trust to learn about Napier's history. [:ticket:]
Look Up for Details
Napier's Art Deco magic is in the details; don't forget to look up at the stunning architecture! [:camerawithflash:]
Dress the Part!
Many visitors embrace the 1920s vibe by dressing up, especially during the festival. [:dress:]
Support Local Trust
Supporting the Art Deco Trust helps them continue their outstanding work preserving Napier's heritage. [:heart:]
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Tours in Advance
Highly recommended to book walking or vintage car tours with the Art Deco Trust to learn about Napier's history. [:ticket:]
Look Up for Details
Napier's Art Deco magic is in the details; don't forget to look up at the stunning architecture! [:camerawithflash:]
Dress the Part!
Many visitors embrace the 1920s vibe by dressing up, especially during the festival. [:dress:]
Support Local Trust
Supporting the Art Deco Trust helps them continue their outstanding work preserving Napier's heritage. [:heart:]
Souvenir Treasures
The Art Deco Trust's souvenir shop is a treasure trove of unique finds. [:gift:]
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Art Deco Trust's tours for their organization, passion, and insightful content, particularly highlighting the knowledgeable guides and the unique historical context provided by the 1931 earthquake. The vintage car tours are a standout experience, offering a fun and memorable way to explore Napier's iconic architecture. While most reviews are overwhelmingly positive, some may find the tours a bit lengthy if not deeply interested in architecture.
"A Must-Do in Napier!
The Art Deco Trust offers a fantastic and well-organized tour. It started with a fascinating short film about the 1931 earthquake, featuring rare footage and historical insight. Our small-group walking tour was led by a passionate volunteer guide who brought the city’s unique Art Deco heritage to life. Highly recommended for anyone visiting Napier!"
Manuela H (ManuelaH)
"We had a fantastic tour and experience with the charming and funny Simon. His detailed knowledge of the local history was very insightful. Definitely recommend and support the Art Deco Trust to help them continue their outstanding local work!"
Brad Collins
"We had a great experience with our volunteer guide Simon.
Just a small group of 6 of us taking in some great architecture and stories of the town.
Even if you're not an "Art Deco" fanatic, well worth 2 hours of your day."
Rob Brooks
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Napier is accessible by car, bus, and has a regional airport (Hawke's Bay Airport - NPE) with flights from major New Zealand cities. Many visitors arrive as part of a wider North Island road trip.
Yes, there is street parking and several car parks available in Napier's city center, though it can be busy during peak times and events.
Absolutely! Napier's Art Deco precinct is very walkable, and the Art Deco Trust offers guided walking tours to enhance your experience.
Napier has a local bus service, but for exploring the Art Deco highlights, walking or taking a guided tour is often more convenient and informative.
Yes, Napier offers a unique historical and architectural experience, making it a worthwhile stop on any North Island road trip.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tour prices vary, but walking tours are generally affordable. Vintage car tours are a premium experience. It's best to check the Art Deco Trust website for current pricing and booking details.
It is highly recommended to book your tours in advance, especially during the Art Deco Festival or peak tourist seasons, to guarantee your spot.
The Art Deco Festival 2025 is scheduled for February 13-16. Programme details are released in stages, with early access for Trust members.
While you can explore Napier's Art Deco buildings independently, a guided tour with the Art Deco Trust provides invaluable historical context and insights.
Membership with the Art Deco Trust may offer benefits like early access to festival programs and potentially discounts on tours.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Both the walking tour and the vintage car tour are highly recommended. The walking tour offers in-depth historical context, while the car tour provides a unique perspective and experience. +1
The Art Deco walking tours typically last around 1.5 to 2 hours, providing a comprehensive overview of the city's heritage.
Comfortable walking shoes are essential for the walking tour. Many visitors enjoy dressing in vintage attire to enhance the experience, especially during the festival.
Yes, the MTG Hawke's Bay Museum often hosts exhibitions related to Art Deco, such as the 'Art Deco on the Edge' exhibition.
The devastating 1931 earthquake led to Napier's complete rebuilding in the popular architectural styles of the era, primarily Art Deco, creating its distinctive character.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Napier's city center, including the Art Deco area, offers a variety of cafes, restaurants, and bars catering to different tastes and budgets.
While not explicitly stated, the vintage atmosphere of Napier lends itself to charming cafes and restaurants that complement the Art Deco theme.
Hawke's Bay is known for its excellent food and wine, so expect fresh local produce, seafood, and award-winning wines at many Napier eateries.
Yes, Napier has many family-friendly restaurants and cafes, particularly in the central areas, offering diverse menus to suit all ages.
Numerous cafes throughout Napier serve excellent coffee, often with a focus on local roasters and a relaxed atmosphere.
📸 📸 Photography
Focus on the intricate details of the buildings, the geometric patterns, and the iconic facades. The waterfront and central streets offer numerous opportunities.
Yes, photography is generally encouraged during the tours, allowing you to capture the unique architecture and atmosphere.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful shadows and highlight the architectural details of the Art Deco buildings.
Any camera or smartphone with good resolution will work. Consider a wide-angle lens to capture the full facades of the buildings.
Generally, photography is permitted in public spaces. Be mindful of private property and any specific signage.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 Consider booking a shorter walking tour if your children have shorter attention spans, and focus on the visually interesting buildings and stories. Look for cafes with outdoor seating where kids can move around a bit more. The Art Deco Festival can also be a hit with families, offering a lively atmosphere and opportunities for dressing up.
The MTG Hawke's Bay Museum often has exhibits that can engage younger visitors. 💰 Budget Travelers
Many of Napier's Art Deco buildings can be admired from the outside for free, so simply strolling through the city center is a great way to soak in the atmosphere. Look for affordable dining options in local cafes and bakeries. The Art Deco Trust's souvenir shop is also a good place to find unique, reasonably priced mementos.
💖 Couples
+1 Enjoy a leisurely walking tour hand-in-hand, discovering hidden architectural gems and sharing stories. Napier has a charming selection of restaurants and wine bars, ideal for a romantic dinner after a day of exploring.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of the 1931 Earthquake
The rebuilding process was swift and efficient, transforming Napier into a unique architectural gem. The Art Deco Trust plays a crucial role in preserving this heritage, offering tours and educational programs that highlight the city's resilience and distinctive style. Visitors can learn about the challenges faced and the vision that shaped modern Napier.
Today, Napier is celebrated as one of the world's finest examples of Art Deco city planning. The commitment to maintaining this architectural integrity is evident throughout the city, making it a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Experiencing Art Deco Tours
For a more distinctive experience, the vintage car tours are a highlight. Imagine cruising through Napier's streets in a classic 1930s vehicle, with a fun and knowledgeable driver as your guide. This offers a unique perspective on the city's architecture and history, often including stops at key landmarks.
+1Beyond these core offerings, the Art Deco Trust also organizes events and exhibitions, most notably the annual Art Deco Festival. This vibrant celebration draws visitors from around the globe, featuring themed events, vintage fashion, music, and a palpable sense of stepping back in time.
+1The Art Deco Festival
The festival program is packed with a diverse range of activities, including guided tours, vintage car parades, fashion shows, live music, and theatrical performances. It's a fantastic opportunity to experience Napier at its most lively and to connect with the city's rich history and culture. The Napier Art Deco Trust is instrumental in organizing this spectacular event, ensuring its authenticity and success year after year.
+1Planning ahead is crucial if you intend to visit during the festival, as accommodation and tours book up quickly. The festival is a testament to Napier's enduring charm and its commitment to preserving and celebrating its Art Deco heritage.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit