Discover the captivating beauty and rich history of Napier-Hastings, nestled in Hawke's Bay, New Zealand. This region is renowned for its stunning Art Deco architecture, a legacy of its rebuilding after the devastating 1931 earthquake. The city boasts a picturesque coastline, offering breathtaking views and opportunities for relaxation. Inland, you'll find rolling hills, vineyards, and orchards creating a picturesque landscape. Napier-Hastings offers a unique blend of cultural experiences, historical landmarks, and natural wonders, attracting travellers seeking a diverse and engaging holiday. The region is also known for its thriving culinary scene, offering an array of delicious food and wine experiences.

The average flight duration from Queenstown to Napier-Hastings is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes for a direct flight. However, flight times can vary slightly depending on weather conditions, wind speed and the specific aircraft used. Air New Zealand offers multiple direct flights daily, providing travellers with convenient options. While Air New Zealand is the major airline for this route, other airlines may offer connecting flights via Auckland or other major hubs. Finding the cheapest flights often depends on booking in advance. The ideal months for budget travellers are typically during the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn), where you often find lower fares and fewer crowds. For the best deals, it's wise to book your flights at least 40 days prior to your departure date. It's worthwhile checking for price fluctuations throughout the year; peak seasons such as summer and public holidays tend to have higher prices, while off-peak seasons such as winter typically offer more cost-effective options. To fully experience this region, be aware that the summer months (December to February) are Napier's busiest, with the highest number of tourists due to the perfect weather. Conversely, winter (June to August) offers a tranquil atmosphere with significantly fewer crowds.

Napier-Hastings enjoys a Mediterranean-like climate, with warm, dry summers and mild, relatively wet winters. Summer (December-February) brings temperatures between 20°C and 30°C, perfect for exploring the beaches and vineyards. Winter (June-August) is cooler, with average temperatures ranging from 10°C to 15°C; however, this provides a unique charm and opportunity to explore indoor attractions. Spring (September-November) and autumn (March-May) offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds, making them ideal shoulder seasons for travel. While extreme weather events are rare, occasional strong winds and rainfall can be expected, particularly during the autumn and winter months.

Queenstown has one major airport currently operating and serving commercial flights: Queenstown Airport.

Queenstown Airport

Queenstown Airport (ZQN) is a modern airport serving both domestic and international flights. Opened in 1965, it has undergone several renovations in recent years to improve passenger experience and increase capacity. The airport has one terminal and serves as a key gateway for tourism in the Queenstown Lakes District.

Main airlines for this route

• Air New Zealand
• Jetstar
• Qantas

Napier-Hastings has one main airport currently operating and serving commercial flights: Napier Airport.

Napier Airport

Napier Airport (NPE) is a smaller, domestic airport serving mainly regional flights. It provides convenient access to the twin cities of Napier and Hastings. Getting to the city centre from the airport is straightforward. Public transport options include regular bus services that connect the airport to both Napier and Hastings city centres. Taxis are readily available at the airport, providing a direct and comfortable ride into the city. Car rentals are also conveniently located at the airport for those who prefer independent travel.

Napier-Hastings offers a fantastic array of activities and attractions. From its Art Deco architecture to its stunning coastline and world-class wineries, there is something to suit every taste.

• Explore Art Deco Napier: Take a guided walking tour or wander independently, admiring the unique architecture of this city rebuilt after the 1931 earthquake.
• Visit the National Aquarium of New Zealand: Discover a diverse range of aquatic and land animals from around the globe, including many native New Zealand species.
• Wine tasting in Hawke's Bay: Indulge in a wine tour and sample the region's award-winning wines at various renowned wineries.