Napier, New Zealand: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Napier, New Zealand? If you're planning to go to Napier, I've got some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Napier, New Zealand

Based on the climate and weather in Napier, New Zealand, the best time to go is January. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Napier, New Zealand

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Napier, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Napier, New Zealand by month

January

January in Napier is warm. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Napier. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Ensure that you get the necessary type. Most adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

If you go to the MTG Hawke's Bay, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

February

February for Napier is a perfect temperature. Temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day. It rains a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Napier. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Be careful to get the correct type. Many adapters available are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most places.

If you go to the MTG Hawke's Bay, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

March

In March, Napier is mild and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 70s F (low 20s C) and sometimes jump into the low 80s F (high 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the 50s F (low 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Napier, with several of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Napier. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Be careful to choose the necessary type. The majority of adapters available online are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

If you go to the MTG Hawke's Bay, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

April

April is mild and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the high 60s F (high 10s C) during the day. It rains 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Napier. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Check that you pick the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to the MTG Hawke's Bay, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

May

May is chilly and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the low 60s F (high 10s C) during the day. It rains 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Napier. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Check that you find the right kind. Many adapters available are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most areas.

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

If you go to the MTG Hawke's Bay, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

June

In June, Napier is crisp. Temperatures routinely are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Napier, with a few of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Napier. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. It's important that you choose the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters currently available are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to the MTG Hawke's Bay, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

July

In July, Napier is chilly and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the 50s F (mid 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Napier, with several of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Napier. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Be careful to get the right kind. A lot of adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

If you go to the MTG Hawke's Bay, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

August

August in Napier is cool. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 40s F (single digits C). It tends to rain a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Napier. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. It's important that you pick the correct type. The vast majority of adapters available are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to the MTG Hawke's Bay, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

September

September here is crisp. Temperatures average in the low 60s F (high 10s C) during the day. It rains occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Napier. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Be careful to choose the right type. The majority of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

If you go to the MTG Hawke's Bay, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

October

October for Napier is mild. Temperatures average in the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day. It rains once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Napier. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Ensure that you pick the correct kind. The majority of adapters currently available are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

If you go to the MTG Hawke's Bay, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

November

If you go to Napier in November, you will notice that it is mild. Expect it to rain once in a while. Daytime temperatures are in the high 60s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Napier. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Be careful to find the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most locations.

If you go to the MTG Hawke's Bay, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

December

In December, Napier is balmy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 70s F (low 20s C) and a bit less than half of the time jump into the low 80s F (high 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the 50s F (low 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Napier, with a few of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Napier. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Be careful to get the necessary kind. Many adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you go to the MTG Hawke's Bay, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

What to do in Napier, New Zealand

Napier, located in the Hawke's Bay region on the east coast of the North Island of New Zealand, is a city renowned for its unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. Known worldwide as the Art Deco capital, Napier is a vibrant city with a plethora of tourist attractions catering to visitors of all interests. So, whether you are seeking adventure, culture, shopping or relaxation, Napier has something for everyone. Here are five of the top tourist attractions in Napier.

1. Art Deco Architecture

Napier's stunning art deco design movement, which began to flourish following the devastating 1931 earthquake, is one of the primary reasons tourists flock to the city. The city's streets are lined with buildings such as hotels, cinemas, and shops adorned in unique art deco architecture. The best way to experience the stunning architecture of Napier is by taking a guided walking tour or a vintage car tour from the city cenotaph.

2. National Aquarium of New Zealand

Located at Marine Parade, overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the National Aquarium of New Zealand offers visitors an insight into the marine life of New Zealand's coastal waters. Open daily, visitors can explore a variety of exhibits featuring impressive displays of stingrays, sharks, seahorses, and other marine creatures. The aquarium also houses a rehabilitation center, where injured marine life is nursed back to good health before they are returned to the wild.

3. Cape Kidnappers Gannet Colony

Located a few kilometers south-east of Napier, the Cape Kidnappers Gannet Colony is a must-visit spot for all nature lovers. The colony, home to more than 20,000 seabirds, offers stunning views of the seabirds in their natural habitat. Visitors can access the colony through tours organized by the Gannet Safari Beachside Experience, which offers 4x4 bus tours or on foot, which is about a two-hour walk each way.

4. The Pania of the Reef Statue

One of Napier's most iconic landmarks, the Pania of the Reef Statue is located at the northern end of Marine Parade. The statue portrays a Maori legend of a beautiful woman named Pania, who fell in love with a human but was forced to return to the sea after being seen by her husband. The statue is a symbol of the city's devotion to the relationship between Europeans and Maori culture.

5. Hawke's Bay Farmers Market

The Hawke's Bay Farmers Market, held every Sunday at Hawke's Bay Showgrounds in Hastings, is the perfect place to discover the region's delicious produce. The market offers a vast selection of local fruits, vegetables, and culinary delights ranging from organic produce, artisanal bread, gourmet cheeses, and seafood. Visitors can also enjoy live music and entertainment while they shop.

In conclusion, Napier, New Zealand, is a fantastic tourist destination with so many attractions that cater to visitors of all preferences. The above-mentioned attractions are only but a glimpse of what this city has to offer. Whether you are interested in culture, history, or simply want to explore the natural beauty of New Zealand, Napier is undoubtedly the perfect destination for you!

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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