Discover Family-Friendly Activities in Napier, New Zealand 🇳🇿
Napier, a beautiful coastal city on the North Island of New Zealand, is a fantastic destination for families with young children. With its striking art deco architecture, beautiful beaches, and an array of kid-friendly attractions, there’s no shortage of fun and exciting activities to enjoy. In this guide, we’ve compiled some of the top family-friendly things to do in Napier so you can create unforgettable memories with your tiny explorers.
🌞 Marine Parade
Marine Parade is the heart of Napier’s waterfront, offering stunning views and plenty of activities for the entire family. Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade, rent bikes, or have a picnic in one of the many grassy areas. Don’t miss these family-friendly attractions along Marine Parade:
- Ocean Spa: Enjoy a family swim in the heated pools with views of the ocean.
- Junior Bike Track: A perfect spot for young kids to learn and practice their biking skills.
- Sunken Gardens: Wander through a beautifully landscaped garden that provides a peaceful retreat from the bustling waterfront.
- Playgrounds: Let the little ones burn off some energy at the various playgrounds along the parade, including the popular Spriggs Park playground.
🐠 National Aquarium of New Zealand
Experience marine life up close at the National Aquarium of New Zealand, located on Marine Parade. Home to over 100 species of fish, reptiles, and birds, the aquarium offers a unique opportunity for children to learn about aquatic life and conservation efforts. Highlights include:
- Penguin Cove: Watch the adorable little blue penguins in their custom-built enclosure.
- Oceanarium: Be mesmerized by the colorful marine life as you walk through the underwater tunnel.
- Touch Tank: Get hands-on with sea stars, sea cucumbers, and other friendly marine creatures.
- Feeding Times: Plan your visit around feeding times to see sharks, stingrays, and other marine life in action.
🚂 Napier’s Miniature Train Rides
Located in Anderson Park, the Hawke’s Bay Model Engineering Society offers miniature train rides every Sunday afternoon (weather permitting). These charming little trains are a hit with children and adults alike, providing a fun and affordable way to spend a sunny afternoon.
🏰 The Faraday Centre
The Faraday Centre is an interactive museum that showcases the history of technology and innovation. With hands-on exhibits and displays, children can explore the world of science, engineering, and communication in a fun and engaging way.
| Attraction | Age Group | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Marine Parade | All Ages | Free |
| National Aquarium of New Zealand | All Ages | Adults: NZD 22, Children (3-14): NZD 11, Family Pass: NZD 56 |
| Miniature Train Rides | All Ages | NZD 1 per ride |
| The Faraday Centre | All Ages | Adults: NZD 9, Children (4-15): NZD 4, Family Pass: NZD 20 |
🍽️ Kid-Friendly Dining in Napier
When it comes to dining with children in Napier, there are plenty of family-friendly options to choose from. Some of our top picks include:
- Milk & Honey: A café with a relaxed atmosphere, offering a kids’ menu and outdoor play area.
- Mister D: A popular dining spot with a creative menu and a dedicated children’s menu.
- Emporium Eatery & Bar: A stylish eatery with a separate kids’ menu and a welcoming atmosphere for families.
No matter what your family’s interests are, Napier has something to offer for everyone. With its picturesque setting, friendly atmosphere, and an abundance of family-oriented activities, you’re sure to create lifelong memories with your little ones in this beautiful New Zealand city.