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Waterfront · Napier (Ahuriri), Hawke's Bay
Marine Parade
Seafront promenade in Napier, with Norfolk pines, gardens, the statue of Pania of the Reef, the sound shell, the national aquarium and a shingle beach facing the bay.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Marine Parade
The Marine Parade runs for several kilometres along Napier's beach, facing Hawke Bay. It is the city's main recreational area, with a row of Norfolk pines, lawns, gardens and a bike path. The beach is composed of dark shingle and the sea becomes deep close to the shore.
In the section near the centre are the promenade's landmarks. The statue of Pania of the Reef, from a Maori legend about a woman of the sea, is one of Napier's symbols. Nearby are the Sound Shell, the colonnade and the Sunken Gardens, built after the earthquake, and the Tom Parker fountain, lit at night.
Further south is the National Aquarium of New Zealand, with tanks of fish, sharks and rays, an area for kiwis and other native species. Along the promenade are also a playground, mini-golf, public pools and a skating rink.
The waterfront cycle path continues south toward Clifton and Hastings, and north to the port and Ahuriri.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
1 to 2 hours for the promenade; another 1 to 2 hours for the aquarium.
Best time
Early morning or late afternoon to walk in low light. The Tom Parker fountain is illuminated at night.
How to get there
On foot from Napier's centre: the promenade starts a few steps from the Art Deco streets. There is parking along the waterfront.
Tip
Hire a bicycle and follow the waterfront cycle path. Do not swim at Napier's beach: the sea deepens suddenly and there are currents; use the promenade pools instead.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Marine Parade
Can you swim at the Marine Parade beach in Napier?
Not recommended: the beach is pebbly and the water deepens soon after the shore, with currents. There are public pools on the promenade.
Who is Pania of the Reef?
She is a figure from a Māori legend, a woman of the sea who married a land chief. Her statue is one of Napier’s symbols.
Is the National Aquarium in Napier?
Yes, on the Marine Parade, south of the centre, with fish, sharks, rays and a kiwi area.