Napier City Drive & Aquarium

OVERVIEW

Drive past the marquee attractions of New Zealand’s ‘Art Deco City,’ then explore its underwater world at the National Aquarium. Considered one of the most attractive cities in New Zealand, Napier was completely rebuilt after enduring a devastating 1931 earthquake and fire. The result is what you’ll see on this leisurely drive: the world’s largest concentration of stylish Art Deco buildings, most of which still stand in their streamlined, original condition. You’ll also enjoy a spin along Marine Parade, the coastal road lined with symmetrical Norfolk Island pines that traces the gentle curve of Hawke’s Bay and showcases beaches beloved by surfers and boaters alike. The Maori-inspired Pania of the Reef bronze and graceful Spirit of Napier monument and among the sights you’ll see en route to your independent tour of the National Aquarium. Here you’ll encounter every imaginable sort of marine life, including preserved giant squid, living coral reefs, seahorses, eels and fish indigenous to New Zealand. Other tanks showcase penguins and marine oddities like the endangered pacu, a toothy Amazonian fish that feeds on fruits and berries. Even land animals like flightless kiwi birds and scaly tuatara lizards are among the attraction’s attractions.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Enjoy a coach-driven tour of the Art Deco District of Napier, a living time capsule of the 1930s.
• Drive along Marine Parade, a Norfolk Pine-lined coastal boulevard whose scenery includes sunken gardens, iconic sculptures and the beaches of Hawke’s Bay.
• Visit the National Aquarium of New Zealand, touring the diverse tanks and exhibits at your leisure.
• See everything from preserved giant squids to tiny seahorses, penguins, fruit-eating fish and even kiwi birds.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Wear layered, weather-appropriate clothing.
• Flat, comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
• Bring a hat, a bottle of water from the ship, sunglasses and sunscreen as needed.