Marine Parade

djacent to the Pacific Ocean, Napier's Marine Parade is a destination in its own right. Visit the attractions, public gardens & art or just enjoy the sea

Lined with Norfolk Pines and seaside background Marine Parade is iconic to Napier City. Take some time and wander along the Rotary Pathway to enjoy the seabreeze and stunning seascape.  With coffee cup in hand and friendly nods from the rollerbladers and cyclists you could easily think you are in Miami or Venice Beach.

Travelling from the Southern end of the Parade you will find the National Aquarium of New Zealand You will find everything from marine life to Kiwis and Tuataras in this impressive building. If you fancy an ice cream as you wander then stop off at ‘Lick This’. Further along is Par 2 Mini Golf which is good fun for the family (or competitive others!)  There is also public statues such as the 'Millenium Arch' and the 'Spirit of Napier' which are great photo opportunities.  

Other buildings of note are the Art Deco Dome Building and Marine Parade Arch. The Sunken Gardens and Marine Parade Gardens are perfect for whiling away the afternoon with friends or a book, and there is always something happening at the famous Art Deco Sound Shell. The Tom Parker Fountain and Pania of the Reef Statue are great for people watching.

Pania of the Reef statue is one of Hawke's Bay's most famous Maori legends. It is said  she was the beautiful maiden of a handsome Maori lover, who was lured by the sea people off the Napier coastline to the depths of the Pacific Ocean, never to return to the land of mortals again. If you pass over Pania Reef it is said that you will see Pania with arms outstretched, ever striving to return to the lover she left on that fateful day.  (Count the number of people who come to touch Pania for luck)

Further along the Northern end you will find Ocean Spa which is perfect for taking a swim whilst still enjoying the ocean views. Outside they have four swimming pools and two spas with an additional two spas indoors (all heated between 18-36 degrees). They are open every day from 6am-10pm

Finish the day with a nice bite to eat and a glass of wine at one of the many restaurants dotted along the Parade. For a special treat head to Pacifica to experience the genius of Chef Jeremy Rameka or check out the newly opened ‘2 of 6’-located in one of the “Six Sister houses’ opposite the Skate Zone.