Excursion Hawke’s bay express tour at Napier

Experience the Art Deco beauty of Napier and its surrounds by road train during this scenic excursion aboard the elegant Hawke's Bay Express.

Napier, Hawke's Bay Express Road Train-Ride

Depart the pier for a ride aboard the Hawke's Bay Express, a modern road-train with the look-and-feel of an old-fashioned steam engine, complete with a romantic atmosphere straight out of the opulent Art Deco era. The Hawke's Bay Express features velvet-covered cushioned seats, spacious carriage benches, tall windows, polished wooden floors, and crimson-tasselled curtains. As the bell rings and whistle blows, you are transported back in time for an Art Deco experience in Napier like no other.

Marine Parade, City Centre, Art Deco Architecture, Bluff Hill, Ahuriri Village

Head out along scenic Marine Parade, with seascape views of Cape Kidnappers. From here, proceed through the elegant city centre of Napier and along the main street, which is mostly a pedestrian zone, and marvel at some of the world's most stunning examples of Art Deco architecture. Along the way, learn about the catastrophic 1931 earthquake and city's subsequent Art Deco-style rebuilding effort. Leaving the town centre, head over Bluff Hill, an older area featuring early settlers' homes, then continue on to Ahuriri, once an old port village and now a haven for summer tourists.

National Tobacco Company Building, Bar and Restaurant Area, Ahuriri Port, Marine Parade

Learn about the life and culture in New Zealand, as well as some famous Kiwis and fascinating Maori legends during the bay's history and changes over the last 600 years. Following a photo stop outside the former National Tobacco Company building, perhaps the region's Art Deco masterpiece, ride through the vibrant bar and restaurant area, then past the sailing port of Ahuriri before turning back towards Napier's Marine Parade. Upon arrival, you may opt to return directly to the pier, or leave the train for shopping and further exploration in Napier, and return to the pier on your own.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Napier, Hawke's Bay Express Road Train-Ride, Marine Parade, City Centre, Art Deco Architecture, Bluff Hill, Ahuriri, National Tobacco Company Building

Note

Please note: This tour involves a minimal amount of walking for approximately 54 yards (about 50 metres), with a few steps to negotiate to board/de-board the Hawke's Bay Express Train. This tour is suitable for guests with limited mobility but not those guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection and bottled water from the ship. The Hawke's Bay Express Train-Ride is air-cooled via large opening windows. Space on this tour is very limited; we suggest you book in advance to avoid disappointment.