The Foodie Guide to Napier

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Food Tours in Napier

Let’s waste no time in diving into the winery experiences in New Zealand’s oldest wine region. Tours like Prinsy’s Tours (more info on Viator and Tripadvisor), Vines and Views Tours (on Viator and Tripadvisor), Hawkes Bay Scenic Tour (on Viator and Tripadvisor), Bay Tours and Charters (on Viator and Tripadvisor) and others will handle the driving and the cellar door tasting fees. You just sit back, relax and enjoy a gastronomical journey past Hawke’s Bays vineyards to various cellar doors learning about and tasting Napier’s wines. Hell, you can even tour the wineries in a vintage car with Napier Classic Cars (on Viator and Tripadvisor) and Hooters Vintage & Classic Vehicle Hire (on Viator and Tripadvisor) or in a classic black London taxi with Deco City Discoverer (on Viator and Tripadvisor). Or how about a taster tour on a V8 trike with Supertrike Tours (on Viator and Tripadvisor)?

Moving on from Hawke’s Bay’s renowned beverages, try some of the artisanry delights at the Hawke’s Bay Farmers’ Market. One of the longest-running farmers’ markets in the country, the Hawke’s Bay Farmers’ Market is a must-do with stalls selling and offering tastings of all sorts, including fresh produce, freshly-roasted coffee, honey, chocolate, fresh pasta, sauces, cider, gourmet meats, artisan bread, wine, feijoa products and oh-so-much-more. The event also has live music and street food-style stalls too. Find it in the Hawke’s Bay Showgrounds from 8.30am to 12.30pm. Alternatively, head to the Napier Urban Farmers’ Market (Clive Square) on Saturday morning between 9am and 1pm.

A hidden gem in Napier, Silky Oaks Chocolates offers one of the most comprehensive chocolate factory tours in the country. Join them for 3,000 years of chocolate history at their on-site museum and take a tour of their factory, viewing the chocolate-making process through the viewing windows. All tours include chocolate tastings, while their cafe is where you can indulge in more chocolatey treats.

For more food tours, like cycling wine tours, beer and cider tours and more, check out the 10 Things to Do in Napier for Foodies.

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The Best Restaurants in Napier

In such a foodie hub as Hawke’s Bay, it’s no wonder that Napier has such a dizzying array of fabulous eateries. We’ve already listed some of the best fine dining restaurants in The Luxury Guide to Napier and even some romantic restaurants in The Honeymoon Guide to Napier, so be sure to check those out! The best of the rest, however, include Hunger Monger (129 Marine Parade) specialising in seafood exclusively from the North Island’s east coast. For a relaxed yet sophisticated vibe that reflects the timeless charm of Napier, head to the Emporium Eatery & Bar (Corner of Tennyson Street and Marine Parade) with its art deco-style decor and contemporary seasonal menu.

For naughty treats, head to Mister D (47 Tennyson Street) open for breakfast, brunch and dinner. Dine on doughnuts that you can inject with flavours yourself. As for the savouries, be assured that they make their own bread, pasta and pastries daily.

And for something a little different but extremely popular with the locals, Restaurant Indonesia (409 Marine Parade) offers an intriguing mix of Indonesian cuisine with Dutch influences. Homemade sambals (chilli) is served on the side of each dish so you don’t have to worry about it being too spicy.

For some of Napier’s street food experiences, check out the cheap eats in The Guide to Napier on a Budget.

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Alternative Things to Do in Napier

While food and wine might be the main highlight of Napier, there is actually some other fun stuff to do. Marvel at New Zealand’s largest mainland gannet colony, enjoy breathtaking views from Te Mata Peak, take an art deco tour and much more! Here are a few ideas:

• Hit the cycle trails of Hawke’s Bay
• Visit the historical Maori site, Otatara Pa
• Do white water rafting on the Mohaka River
• Visit the MTG Hawke’s Bay regional museum
• Do a tour of the art deco buildings of Napier
• Check out the views from Bluff Hill
• Do a spooky tour of the Napier Prison
• Do stand-up paddleboarding…

… and more! Check out the 15 Super Fun Things to Do in Napier for elaboration on each activity and more.