🇳🇿 Retro Town in New Zealand’s North Island | Napier
Fell in love with this city at first sight! 💕 Today, I’m sharing a super underrated but absolutely must-visit city in New Zealand’s North Island—Napier! Yep, that charming little town rebuilt in Art Deco style after the 1931 earthquake 😍. My first visit here was jaw-dropping—everywhere you look, there are pastel pink and blue vintage buildings, each one a perfect Instagram backdrop! 📸 Every shot feels like a magazine spread! 🚗｜Transport Guide From Auckland to Napier, it’s about a 4-5 hour drive. If you’re road-tripping, just follow State Highway 1 & 5! 🏛️｜Must-Visit Spots ✨ Art Deco District This is Napier’s signature! The entire city center is packed with perfectly preserved 1930s Art Deco architecture! Highly recommend joining the official Art Deco walking tour (daily at 10 AM & 2 PM, only $28). The guides dress in vintage outfits and spill all the fascinating stories behind each building! 🔍 Best photo spots: Daily Telegraph Building T&G Building ASB Bank Building 🌊 Marine Parade A stunning seaside promenade! Walk along the coast with the ocean on one side and gardens + art installations on the other. Sunset here is magical—every shot is a masterpiece! Don’t miss the Tom Parker Fountain and the Pania of the Reef statue. 🏠｜Accommodation Picks 🏨 Art Deco Masonic Hotel – Right in the city center, oozing historic charm, and within walking distance to all attractions! (~$180-220/night) 🏡 Scenic Hotel Te Pania – A seafront hotel with spacious rooms and ocean views from every window! (~$200-250/night) 💰 Swiss-Belhotel – A clean, modern hotel with great value, right across from a supermarket and fast food spots. (~$120-150/night) 📝｜Pro Tips 🌦️ Best time to visit: November-April (best weather + wine festivals!). 📅 Art Deco Weekend: Every February & July, Napier transforms into a Gatsby-esque party! Vintage cars, retro performances, and everyone dresses in 1920s-30s fashion 🎩✨. But hotels get pricey—book early! #NewZealand #HiddenGems #TravelGuide #100WaystoTravel #Napier #ArtDeco #Wanderlust
