Napier’s charm isn’t just in its Art Deco architecture or scenic coastlines; it’s also in the wide variety of tours that bring out the best of this vibrant city and its surroundings. Whether you’re a wine lover, an outdoor enthusiast, or a history buff, Napier offers experiences that go beyond the usual. We love the Half Day Small-Group Hawkes Bay Wine Tour for its personalized touch and the chance to taste some of New Zealand’s finest wines without the hassle of driving. As cruise ships dock, many travelers also enjoy an active Scenic Rafting from Napier that combines fun with a touch of adrenaline. For a glimpse into local wildlife and Maori stories, the Cape Kidnappers Gannet, Nature & Sightseeing Tour is hard to beat.
Quick Overview
Napier’s best tours cover a broad spectrum—from wine tasting and art deco walks to outdoor adventures like e-bike rentals and scenic drives. For wine enthusiasts, options include premium winery tours and afternoon tastings. History and architecture fans can explore the city’s Art Deco District with guided walks and afternoon tours. For outdoor lovers, options include white-water rafting, scenic supertrike rides, and cycling along Hawke’s Bay trails. Whether you’re drawn to sipping wine, learning history, or biking through vineyards, this list has something to match your style.
1. Half Day Small-Group Hawkes Bay Wine Tour
At number 1 is the Half Day Small-Group Hawkes Bay Wine Tour, a perfect choice for anyone wanting a relaxed, intimate wine experience. For around $104, you’ll be chauffeured to four highly regarded wineries, each offering comprehensive tastings. The tour includes a complimentary cheeseboard and snacks, making it easy to sample wines without feeling rushed. The guide, Deidre, is praised for her friendly, knowledgeable style, sharing insights in plain English and making the process accessible. This tour is ideal if you want to keep your morning free and enjoy a personalized, small-group setting with round-trip transfers from Napier, Hastings, or Havelock North. Visitors rave about the variety of vineyards and the quality of the cheese platter.
Bottom line: If you love wine and prefer a cozy, friendly vibe, this tour offers excellent value and a memorable experience without the crowds.
2. Shore Excursion: Scenic Rafting from Napier
For those arriving by cruise and craving an active adventure, the Scenic Rafting from Napier is a standout. Priced at about $137, it’s a 5.5-hour tour suitable for first-timers and families. The rapids are class II—easy enough for kids and seniors—so you don’t need prior experience. The guide, Deon, shares local culture, birdlife, and history while you float along the native bush-lined river. You can swim if you want or simply relax and soak in the scenery. The included lunch makes this trip a well-rounded outdoor outing. Many reviews highlight the friendly service and the scenic beauty of the river and native bush.
Bottom line: Perfect for active travelers who want to combine sightseeing with a splash of adventure, all in a calm, accessible setting.
3. Napier: Cape Kidnappers Gannet, Nature & Sightseeing Tour
At number 3, the Cape Kidnappers Gannet, Nature & Sightseeing Tour is a wildlife highlight. For just $58, this 3-hour trip takes you to the world’s largest mainland gannet colony. The guide provides lively commentary and insights into Maori legends and local ecology. You’ll get close enough to see these magnificent birds in their natural habitat, perched high above the cliffs. The tour also includes visits to a native forest and a predator-proof reserve, giving a well-rounded nature experience. Reviews mention how magical it is to be feet from the birds and how knowledgeable the guide is.
Bottom line: If you’re interested in wildlife and stunning coastal scenery, this is a must-do for a half-day outing.
4. Guided 10am Morning Art Deco Walk From Napier Art Deco Trust
Starting off your day, the Morning Art Deco Walk is an engaging 1.5-hour tour priced at only $18.90. It begins at the Art Deco Trust with a short film on the 1931 earthquake, then takes you through the city’s iconic buildings. Your guide shares stories behind the architecture and the rebuilding process that gave Napier its distinctive look. Most reviews praise the friendly guide and the opportunity to see the city’s landmarks from a local perspective. It’s a perfect way to orient yourself and appreciate the architectural resilience of Napier.
Bottom line: An affordable, informative introduction to Napier’s architecture and history, ideal for first-time visitors.
5. Napier Afternoon Winery & Gin Tasting (no gin Mon-Wed)
For about $103, the Napier Afternoon Winery & Gin Tasting offers a relaxed exploration of Hawke’s Bay’s vineyards. The tour includes visits to four wineries, including New Zealand’s oldest, Mission Estate, with a guided tasting. Out in the vines at Linden Estate, you’ll enjoy wine, cheese, and biscuits, all with stunning scenery. The tour is small and customizable, perfect for wine lovers eager to learn regional secrets without the crowds. Reviewers describe the guide, Ross, as friendly and knowledgeable with plenty of insight into the wine-making process.
Bottom line: Great for a leisurely afternoon sampling some of New Zealand’s best wines and enjoying the countryside.
6. Premium-Hawke’s Bay, Napier Winery Tour – 5.5 hours
This Premium Winery Tour is for dedicated wine enthusiasts. Over 5.5 hours, you’ll visit four diverse wineries, from the oldest to innovative new establishments. The tour includes tastings and options to explore vineyards on guided walks or enjoy cheese and pizza. It’s limited to small groups, with plenty of time to ask questions. The reviews highlight Kirsty’s knowledgeable approach and the scenic variety of vineyards visited. It’s ideal for travelers who want an in-depth look at the region’s winemaking.
Bottom line: If you’re serious about wine and prefer a private, relaxed experience, this tour offers excellent value.
7. Napier E-bike Hire
For about $64, the Napier E-bike Hire invites you to explore Hawke’s Bay at your own pace. The region’s trails connect top wineries, beaches, and cultural sites. The bikes are easy to ride, making them perfect for casual explorers and active travelers alike. Many reviews mention the convenience and the scenic views that come with self-guided riding. It’s great for those who want to customize their day and skip the crowds.
Bottom line: Perfect for independent travelers who want flexibility and scenic beauty combined with light exercise.
8. Scenic Te Mata Peak Tour by Supertrike
At number 8, the Scenic Te Mata Peak Tour is a fun way to see Napier’s surroundings. For just over $134, you’ll ride in a stylish supertrike through the Tukituki Valley, stopping at the summit of Te Mata Peak for 30 minutes of unbeatable views. The ride includes hotel pickup and is limited to four people, ensuring an intimate experience. Reviews highlight the thrilling ride and spectacular scenery, especially at the peak, where you can bring a blanket and drinks for a relaxing moment.
Bottom line: If you’re after a mix of adventure, scenery, and a bit of luxury, this tour is a memorable choice.
9. Napier: Afternoon Winery & Gin Tasting Tour Thu Fri Sat
For about $99, this Afternoon Winery & Gin Tasting Tour combines multiple tastings. You visit two wineries and a distillery, with the chance to savor New Zealand gins and wines paired with cheese and biscuits. It’s a balanced mix of vineyard visits and spirits, with reviews praising the guide’s friendly demeanor and the quality of tastings. It’s ideal for those who want a comprehensive tasting experience in a manageable afternoon.
Bottom line: A good pick for those wanting to taste both wine and gin, with a scenic drive and relaxed atmosphere.
10. Napier Gourmet Luncheon + Winery & Gin Taste
For about $140, the Gourmet Luncheon + Winery & Gin Taste offers a full 5-hour experience. It features a gourmet chef’s platter at Mission Estate, combined with tastings at the oldest winery in New Zealand and a gin distillery. The inclusion of a delicious lunch makes this a popular choice for food and drink lovers who want a relaxed, all-inclusive day. Reviewers mention the quality of the food and the personable guide.
Bottom line: Best suited for foodies who want a gourmet experience paired with top-quality wines and spirits.
11. Guided 2pm Afternoon Art Deco Walk from Napier Art Deco Trust
This afternoon Art Deco walk is a 1.5-hour tour, perfect for those who want a detailed look at Napier’s architecture. For only $18.90, your guide will share stories behind the buildings and how they were reconstructed after the 1931 earthquake. It’s a great way to understand the city’s resilience and design, with reviews highlighting the guide’s enthusiasm and knowledge.
Bottom line: An affordable way to deepen your appreciation of Napier’s architecture and history.
12. Wine Tour and Tastings in Hawkes Bay
For about $149, the Wine Tour and Tastings in Hawkes Bay takes you to four wineries, including the historic Mission Estate. Traveling in a restored VW Kombi, you’ll enjoy commentary and scenic views. The reviews mention the fun of the vintage van and the quality of the wines. It’s perfect if you want a leisurely, stylish day with a personal touch.
Bottom line: Excellent for vintage car fans and wine lovers seeking a relaxed, guided experience.
13. Cape Winery Cycle Tour – 6 wineries, self-guided
If cycling is your thing, the Cape Winery Cycle Tour lets you explore at your own pace. For about $70, you’ll get route instructions, bike, and trail map, with options to visit up to seven wineries. The reviews praise the scenic route, excellent signage, and the ability to stop where you want. This is perfect for independent travelers who enjoy a bit of exercise with their wine tasting.
Bottom line: A self-guided, flexible way to experience Hawke’s Bay’s wineries on two wheels.
14. Napier: Winery + Gin Tasting Tour with Lunch
For about $134, the Winery + Gin Tasting Tour with Lunch combines a scenic lunch at Mission Estate with visits to a gin distillery and two wineries. This full-day experience appeals to those wanting a gourmet touch paired with tastings from historic wineries and craft spirits. The reviews highlight the quality of the food and the friendly hosts. It’s an excellent choice for a relaxed, all-inclusive day with plenty of local flavor.
Bottom line: Ideal for food and drink connoisseurs wanting a comprehensive, leisurely day.
15. Small group – Napier, Wine and Beer Tour
Lastly, the Wine and Beer Tour is a 5.5-hour experience that explores both wine and craft beer. It includes visits to the oldest winery and a popular local ale house, with three glasses of beer included. The tour is praised for its personable guides and the ability to sample a range of beverages without worrying about driving. It’s perfect if you want to combine the regions’ best wines with local brews in an intimate setting.
Bottom line: Great for those who want variety — sampling both wines and beers in a relaxed, small-group atmosphere.
How to Choose the Best Tour for You
When selecting the right experience, consider your interest level in wine, history, or outdoor activities. If you’re a dedicated oenophile, tours like the Premium-Hawke’s Bay Winery or Wine Tour and Tastings provide in-depth tastings. For history lovers, the Art Deco walks and afternoon tour are ideal. Those seeking outdoor fun might prefer the scenic rafting or supertrike rides, while active travelers can enjoy the bike or cycling options. Budget, time, and fitness level all play a role—so choose what fits your style best.
Napier offers diverse tours that cater to nearly every traveler’s taste. Whether you’re after a relaxing wine day, a cultural walk, or an adventure in nature, you’ll find these experiences enrich your visit. Consider booking early, especially in peak season, to secure your spot. For a well-rounded trip, mixing a wine tour with a scenic walk or outdoor activity can give you a full picture of this lively city and its surroundings. No matter your choice, you’re sure to leave with memorable stories and a few bottles of local wine or spirits.