Which Napier Tours & Experiences To Choose? Our Best 11 Picks

Napier, on New Zealand’s North Island, is famous for its striking Art Deco architecture, world-class wineries, and outdoor activities. The city’s compact size makes it perfect for exploring via guided tours, bike rides, or scenic drives. We love how many of these experiences combine history, natural beauty, and local flavor. For example, the Top-Rated Hawke’s Bay Wine Tour offers a personalized, small-group wine tasting with snacks and a cheeseboard, perfect for wine lovers and those who enjoy intimate, relaxed outings. Meanwhile, outdoor adventurers can’t miss the Scenic Rafting from Napier, a gentle river trip with stunning native bush views—ideal for cruise passengers craving land-based activity.

Whether you’re into wine, history, wildlife, or active outings, Napier has something to match your style. From scenic drives on supertrikes to self-guided cycling tours along vineyard trails, there’s no shortage of options that suit different interests and fitness levels.

Quick Overview

This list covers a wide range of tours and experiences including wine tastings, outdoor adventures, art deco walking tours, bike rides, and scenic drives. Highlights include the small-group wine tours that offer personalized tastings, adventure-filled rafting trips, and self-guided cycling excursions through the region’s award-winning vineyards. Each experience is designed to give you a taste of Napier’s unique charm while accommodating different budgets and activity levels.

1. Top-Rated Hawke’s Bay Wine Tour – Small Group

At number 1 on our list, the Top-Rated Hawke’s Bay Wine Tour offers an excellent introduction to Hawke’s Bay’s renowned wine scene. This 4-5 hour tour is limited to just 11 people, ensuring a more personal experience. You’ll be chauffeured around sunny vineyards, visiting up to four wineries with tastings included, and enjoy a complimentary cheeseboard. The guide, with over 20 years of experience, makes the day both informative and relaxed. Guests rave about the variety of wines, the friendly guides, and the relaxed pace — “surprisingly at the second winery, all wines were great,” one reviewer notes. This tour is perfect for wine enthusiasts who want a laid-back, intimate day out without the stress of driving.

Bottom Line: A well-priced, high-value experience for wine lovers who appreciate small-group intimacy and local storytelling.

2. Shore Excursion: Scenic Rafting from Napier

For around $140, the Scenic Rafting from Napier combines sightseeing with light outdoor adventure. This 5.5-hour trip on the Mohaka River is suitable for cruise passengers and families alike. The rapids are manageable (grade II), so you don’t need to be an experienced rafter. Your guide shares insights into the local Maori legends and the region’s natural beauty, making it both educational and fun. The river’s tranquil sections are perfect for spotting native birdlife and enjoying the lush bush surroundings. Many reviewers appreciate the flexibility—“you don’t need to get wet unless you want to swim”—and praise the scenery and friendly staff.

Bottom Line: Ideal for active, curious travelers who want a scenic outdoor experience without intense rapids or complicated logistics.

3. Napier: Cape Kidnappers Gannet, Nature & Sightseeing Tour

This 3-hour wildlife adventure takes you to the largest mainland gannet colony in the world at Cape Kidnappers. You’ll travel with a knowledgeable guide who shares stories about the native birds and Maori legends as you approach the majestic cliffs. Visitors get close-up views of these fascinating birds and learn about the native forest and predator-proof reserve. The tour also includes a visit to a native Kiwi reserve, adding a conservation angle to the trip. Past guests love the “feet from the birds” experience and the guide’s insight. It’s suitable for families and nature enthusiasts wanting an easy, memorable outing.

Bottom Line: A compact, informative wildlife tour emphasizing birdlife and Maori stories, great for photography and nature lovers.

4. Guided 10am Morning Art Deco Walk From Napier Art Deco Trust

Walking through Napier’s Art Deco district is a must for history buffs and architecture lovers. The Morning Art Deco Walk starts at just $20 and lasts about 1.5 hours. The tour begins with an introductory film about the 1931 earthquake that reshaped the city, followed by a stroll past iconic Art Deco buildings. Your guide shares stories behind the architecture and local recovery efforts, making the experience both educational and visually delightful. Despite some rain, reviews praise the “informative and relaxed” pace and the guide’s passion. It’s perfect for first-time visitors wanting context and a quick, engaging overview.

Bottom Line: An affordable, informative intro to Napier’s unique architecture and history, suitable for all ages and weather conditions.

5. Napier: Afternoon Wine Tasting + visit Silky Oaks Chocolates

This 5-hour tour offers a relaxed afternoon visiting four top wineries, including New Zealand’s oldest, Mission Estate. With included tastings, cheese, and biscuits, you can enjoy the region’s best wines without the worry of driving. The tour also stops at Silky Oaks Chocolates, satisfying your sweet tooth before heading back. Guests love the variety, with some remarking on the “friendly guide and the good range of local wines.” The tour is ideal for those who want a flexible, all-in-one experience and want to bring home a souvenir wine glass from Mission Estate. It’s perfect for wine and chocolate lovers looking for a flavorful afternoon.

Bottom Line: A tasty, relaxed way to sample Hawke’s Bay wines and chocolates in a small-group setting, with a focus on quality and comfort.

6. Premium 4 – Best Wineries Napier Hawke’s Bay Tour, 5.5h

For about $115, the Premium Wineries Tour visits four of Hawke’s Bay’s best wineries. This small-group tour includes hotel pickup, visits to high-end vineyards, and tastings of a wide range of local wines. The itinerary features one boutique winery on Gimblett Gravels, known for natural wines, plus a flight at New Zealand’s third-oldest winery. The guide, who is knowledgeable and eager to answer questions, makes this a great choice for wine aficionados wanting a thorough tasting experience. Past guests appreciate the personalized attention and the chance to explore different vineyard styles. Note that the tour does not compromise on quality, selecting premium wineries over quantity.

Bottom Line: Perfect for serious wine enthusiasts seeking in-depth tastings and expert insights in a small-group environment.

7. Napier E-bike Hire

If you prefer exploring at your own pace, the Napier E-bike Hire provides an easy way to enjoy Hawke’s Bay’s scenic trails. For around $65, you can rent a comfortable step-through e-bike for up to 8 hours. The region’s flat paths connect vineyards, beaches, wetlands, and cultural sites. Reviewers highlight the “well-organized shop” and “fantastic bikes,” perfect for all fitness levels. One recommended route takes you from Napier to Mission Winery, passing coastal views and native bush. It’s ideal for independent travelers who want flexibility and the ability to customize their day.

Bottom Line: Flexible, user-friendly, and perfect for self-guided exploration of Napier’s beautiful surroundings.

8. Scenic Te Mata Peak Tour by Supertrike

This 2-hour tour in a stylish supertrike is a fun way to see Napier’s countryside. For about $137, you’ll ride through vineyards and the Tukituki Valley, then ascend to Te Mata Peak for stunning 360-degree views. The tour includes hotel pickup and small-group sharing, making it an intimate experience. Many recent reviewers call it “exciting,” “beautiful,” and “highly recommended,” especially praising the guide’s friendliness and the comfort of the vehicle. It’s ideal for those who want a quick but memorable scenic ride with minimal effort.

Bottom Line: An exciting, comfortable way to enjoy the vistas of Hawke’s Bay without strenuous hiking or driving.

9. Napier: Afternoon Winery & Gin Tasting Tour Thu Fri Sat

This 4.5-hour tasting tour combines wine and gin at two wineries and a distillery. For $99, you’ll sample various wines paired with local cheeses and enjoy a gin tasting at the historic Art Nouveau National Tobacco Building. The visit also includes the oldest winery, Mission Estate, and a stop at Askerne Estate for more tastings and nibbles. Reviewers mention the “friendly guide,” “great wine,” and the relaxed pace. It’s perfect for those who want an afternoon of diverse tastings with cultural and historical context.

Bottom Line: Great for those who want variety—wine, gin, and cheese—in a manageable afternoon.

10. Napier Gourmet Winery Luncheon + tastings at 3 Great Wineries

This 6-hour experience is a true feast for lovers of good food and wine. Indulge in a gourmet chef’s lunch at Mission Estate, then visit three top wineries for tastings, including Trinity Hill and Pask. The tour also stops at Silky Oak Chocolates for a sweet break. Guests rave about the “memorable lunch” and “well-organized” itinerary. It’s suited for travelers wanting a leisurely, culinary-focused day with in-depth tastings and a premium lunch.

Bottom Line: An excellent choice for foodies who want to combine wine tasting with culinary delights, all in a small-group setting.

11. Guided 2pm Afternoon Art Deco Walk from Napier Art Deco Trust

This afternoon 2.5-hour walking tour offers a deeper dive into Napier’s architecture and history. Starting at 2 pm, you’ll explore the Art Deco district, visit the Art Deco Centre, and see key buildings while hearing stories about the city’s reconstruction post-1931 earthquake. Reviewers mention the “knowledgeable guide” and the “informative” experience. It’s perfect for travelers who want to understand the city’s character in a relaxed, guided walk.

Bottom Line: A comprehensive, engaging tour ideal for history and architecture fans, perfect for an afternoon outing.

How to Choose the Right Tour

When selecting your experience in Napier, consider your budget, activity level, and interests. For wine lovers craving a personalized, relaxed day, the Small-Group Hawke’s Bay Wine Tour and the Premium Wineries Tour offer detailed tastings and expert guides. If outdoor adventure calls, the Scenic Rafting delivers a gentle yet scenic river trip, suitable for families and cruise passengers. History enthusiasts should not miss the Art Deco walking tours, which combine storytelling with architecture.

For those seeking free exploration, the Napier E-bike Hire lets you craft your own route at your pace, while the Scenic Supertrike offers a quick, stylish scenic ride. Remember to book early, especially during peak season, and always check the weather forecast—some tours are more enjoyable in sunshine.

Final Thoughts

Napier’s diverse offerings mean there’s something for every type of traveler. Wine lovers will appreciate the variety of guided tastings, while history buffs can enjoy Art Deco architecture. Active travelers will find plenty of outdoor options, from biking to river trips. We recommend a small-group tour if you want personalized insights and a relaxed pace, or rent an E-bike for complete independence.

To truly enjoy Napier, plan ahead—many tours fill up quickly, especially in summer. Whether you want a leisurely day exploring vineyards or an adrenaline rush on the river, these experiences will give you a memorable taste of this charming New Zealand city.