Napier
North Island, New Zealand
Daily Budget
~NZ$95
~US$55 · per day
Best Months
Climate
Tropical / Summer
Vibe
Cultural gem
Overview
Napier is a coastal city on New Zealand's North Island, famous for its stunning Art Deco architecture rebuilt after a devastating earthquake in 1931. Sitting at the heart of the Hawke's Bay wine region, it blends heritage charm with world-class vineyards, a dramatic gannet colony at Cape Kidnappers, and seasonal fruit-picking work that draws backpackers from around the globe. It is one of the sunniest cities in New Zealand, making it a reliable stop on any North Island itinerary.
Editor's Pick
Napier stands out for: One of the world's most complete collections of Art Deco buildings, with guided walking tours and a famous annual festival in February; Gateway to the Hawke's Bay wine region, with over 70 wineries and cellar doors accessible by bike along flat trails; Cape Kidnappers is home to the world's largest mainland gannet colony, with thousands of birds nesting on dramatic coastal cliffs.
Things to Do
View all 10 activitiesAttend the Art Deco Festival in February, when 40,000+ visitors celebrate with vintage cars, jazz, and period costumes
Attend the Art Deco Festival in February, when 40,000+ visitors celebrate with vintage cars, jazz, and period costumes
Browse the Napier Urban Farmers' Market on Saturday mornings for local produce and cheap eats
Browse the Napier Urban Farmers' Market on Saturday mornings for local produce and cheap eats
Top Hostels
View all 6 hostels
Budget Breakdown
| Category | Daily (NZD) | Daily (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Hostel dorm | NZ$35 | $20 |
| Food | NZ$28 | $16 |
| Transport | NZ$8 | $5 |
| Activities | NZ$25 | $15 |
| Total | ~NZ$95 | ~$55 |
Hostels
6 hostels with reviews and vibe scores
Things to Do
10 activities and experiences
Getting Here
Transport routes, prices, and tips
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does it cost to backpack in Napier?
- Budget around NZ$95 NZD (~US$55) per day in Napier, covering a hostel dorm, meals, local transport, and a few activities.
- When is the best time to visit Napier?
- The best months for backpackers to visit Napier are Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, when the weather is most favourable and conditions are ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
- What are the best hostels in Napier?
- Top-rated hostels in Napier include Toad Hall Accommodation, Kennedy Park Resort, Stables Lodge Backpackers. Prices for a dorm bed typically start from NZ$29 per night.
- What are the top things to do in Napier?
- Must-do activities in Napier include Attend the Art Deco Festival in February, when 40,000+ visitors celebrate with vintage cars, jazz, and period costumes, Browse the Napier Urban Farmers' Market on Saturday mornings for local produce and cheap eats, Cycle the Hawke's Bay Trails through vineyards and along the coast on a self-guided wine trail. There are 10 activities and experiences listed for backpackers.
