Immediately in front of the Napier town centre is the start of one of the loveliest waterfront walks in New Zealand. On Saturday mornings, a farmers' market is immediately below Bluff Hill. From there, follow the path as it meanders through a series of gardens, parks, playgrounds, and the National Aquarium. Art deco through to more modern sculptures are along the route.
Among the many highlights of this walk are the Tom Parker art deco fountain, a testament to the city's architectural heritage, and the Pania of the Reef statue, a symbol of resilience that was once stolen but was recovered. The art deco memorial Colonnade and Plaza, the Sunken Garden, and the Spirit of Napier, a poignant reminder of the city’s recovery from a devastating earthquake, all add to the historical depth of the walk.
You can easily get to the beach by taking this walk. The combination of dark (black when wet) pebbles and coarse sand is spectacular against the surf, but it’s not a swimming beach.
