Beauty isn’t hard to come by in the historic city of Napier/Ahuriri. Tucked away in the eastern coast of the North Island/Te Ika-a-Māui, this charming city in the Hawke’s Bay region is brimming with heritage buildings, lush nature and plenty of spots for activities that’ll give the whole family a thrill. 

You don’t have to break the bank to enjoy a road trip around this stunning city. Napier is made up of a collection of Art Deco style buildings that were built after the tragedy of the 1931 earthquake. Today, these buildings characterise the eccentric face of the city, just as the unique landscapes and local activity hubs you’ll discover across the city’s region do. Pick up your Thrifty rental car, strap the whole fam in, and let’s get exploring the scenic drives and playgrounds that bring this city to life. 

Journey Through Art Deco Napier to the Picturesque Hastings 

Not too far at all from Napier is the inland city of Hastings/Heretaunga. While driving straight from Napier to Hastings only takes a little more than twenty minutes, the scenery that accompanies you on your journey is enough to make memories that will last a lifetime. As you’re leaving Napier, make sure to drive down the sunswept Marine Parade. This stretch of road doesn’t only deliver sweeping seaside views of the endless blue stretching out toward the horizon, but also gives you a taste of some of the Art Deco architecture that Napier is famous for. Stop off at the Soundshell on Marine Parade and discover an outdoor amphitheatre, or pay a visit to the Sunken Gardens to discover the perfect spot for a serene picnic. The first stretch of the drive as you leave Napier will take you down south of Hawke Bay, along the coastline of the South Pacific Ocean—talk about scenic ocean views! From there, follow the highway signs toward Hastings and watch as the lush greenery of the bush builds up before you hit the urban area.  

Immerse Yourself in Nature at Te Mata Park 

There are few other places in the region surrounding Napier more expansively beautiful than the phenomenal Te Mata Park. Under half an hour’s drive from the heart of Napier’s city, Te Mata Park covers a whopping 107 hectares on the Heretaunga Plains. Known as a historical and cultural treasure, this massive area of rolling hills and thriving vegetation delivers stunning views from wherever you find yourself around Te Mata. While visitors can hike and bike their way throughout the network of trails, there’s no need to fret if you don’t want to leave the comfort of your car. The drive up to the summit of Te Mata peak along the road is a thrilling (and easy!) way to make the most of the jaw-dropping view. You truly can’t find a scenic drive like this anywhere else. Plus, entry to the park is completely free! 

Discover A Playground with Ocean Views 

Napier might be a stunning city to look at as you’re wandering around the streets with the family in tow (and make sure you do go for a good wander among those gorgeous buildings), but this beautiful city is also a whole lot of fun. With twenty-six playgrounds across Napier, you and the kids are spoilt for choice for where to burn some energy on an exciting afternoon. The Marine Parade Playground combines sweeping ocean views with bucket loads of fun, and should be at the top of your list when you’re looking for ways to spend a day. Just across from the shoreline on the city’s coast, this playground has designated areas for kids of all ages. No matter how small or big your child is, there’s sure to be some fun awaiting them in their own corner of this action-packed playground. 

Embrace Adventure at Anderson Park 

A few minutes’ drive out of the heart of the city, you’ll find a playground to rival all others at Anderson Park. This impressive play space is sure to keep kids of all kinds entertained for hours on end, and it’s got an award to prove it! There is a diverse array of play areas for kids of any age, with activities like flying foxes, swings, water play, climbing, sliding and even functional artwork to keep the little ones busy. This playground is so incredible that the adults will be forgiven for wanting to get in on the fun! Better yet, Anderson Park is completely free. Save those dollars and spend a few hours (and then maybe a few more) adventuring around this haven of fun. 

What do you get when you combine the beauty of scenic drives with the excitement of action-packed playgrounds? Napier! Start exploring this wonderland of sweeping views and thrilling adventure today in your Thrifty rental car.