Napier Off The Beaten Path Tips by kiwi

Maori Heritage in Napier.

Napier has a lot of Maori heritage, this statue depicts 'Pania', a figure from Maori folklore.
This is on the waterfront, near Marine Parade.

Take a drive and explore.

You'll need to rent a car, or find someone to drive you, but this short journey is worth it.
Venture south from Napier, to the small town of Havelock North. Just about 3kms out of town, is Te Mata Peak. From up here you get a lovely view over the flatland and out to sea. You get to view a classic New Zealand river and depending on the time of year will depend on whether the farmland is luscious green or golden brown.
This peak is used for parapenting, hang gliding and model flying also.