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Getting Around Napier

Getting Around Napier

The East Coast New Zealand Travel Guide

Public Transportation Buses

The municipal bus network in Hawke'the Bay of operates through Go Bus, connecting Napier's city center with suburban areas and the neighboring city of Hastings. This system offers a reliable option for local commutes.

The main bus hub in Napier is conveniently on Carlyle Street, close to the central area. Routes radiate to go out to connect with suburbs like Onekawa, Marewa, Taradale, and Greenmeadows, and extend south to Hastings.

Bus Information

  • Detailed route maps and timetables are on the Hawke'the Cove of Regional Council website ("Go Bus Hawke's Bay" section).
  • Bee Card is a reloadable smart card that cheaper fares (approx. NZD $2.50 per trip).
  • Cash fares are more expensive (approx. NZD $3.50), exact change is helpful.
  • Buses operate from early morning until late evening (Mon-Sat, 6 PM - 7 PM), having less frequent Sunday services.

Bee Card Purchase

Purchase and top up your Bee Card at the Napier i-SITE Visitor Information Centre.

Accessibility

Most modern Go Bus vehicles are designed with low floors and ramps for accessibility.

Plan Your Journey

Take advantage of online route planners or the Go Bus website before you travel.

Navigation Tips

Efficient Bus Use
  • Familiarize yourself with bus stop locations.
  • Check Sunday schedules carefully, for they are limited.
  • Use a Bee Card for the best value.
General Advice
  • Printed maps are at the Napier i-SITE Visitor Information Centre.
  • Public holidays often result in reduced services.
  • Confirm specific accessibility needs with Go Bus directly.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Licensed Taxis

Display clear signage, have meters. Find at booths or book by phone.

Typical Fares

Short rides within city: NZD $15-30. Fares higher over long distances or late in the evenings.

Payment

Most cabs take cash and major credit/debit cards. Confirm before ride.

Uber

Available and widely used. Reserve through app, fare estimate in advance, pay through app.

Rental Options

For travelers in search of self-reliance and the freedom to explore at their own pace, various rental options are available in Napier.

Car Rental

  • Minimum age usually 21 (some 25+).
  • Valid national driving license. IDP or certified English translation if not in English.
  • Credit card for security deposit.
  • Book in advance, especially during peak season.

Bike Rentals

  • A lot of shops offer standard bikes, off-road bikes, and e-bikes.
  • E-bikes are excellent for longer distances or gentle inclines.
  • Helmets are legally for all cyclists (rental shops provide them).
  • Numerous lodgings offer complimentary bikes.

Specialty & Safety

  • Vintage vehicle hires are available for unique Art Deco experiences.
  • Driving on the left side of the the way is mandatory.
  • The roads are generally good-maintained.
  • Strict speed limits (50 km/h urban, 100 kilometers per hour open roads).
  • Paid parking is available in the city center.
  • Using a handheld mobile phone while driving is illegal.

Walking & Cycling

Pedestrian Friendly

Napier's city center, Deco Quarter, and Marine Parade are very pedestrian-friendly.

Walking Tours

Art Deco Trust offers daily guided tours; self-guided maps are devoid of the Art Deco Centre.

Cycling Paradise

The Hawke'the Bay of Trails offer hundreds of kilometers of flat, easy-to-ride cycle paths.

Specialized Transport

Beyond the standard methods, some specialized selections are designed for specific interests or needs.

Tour Buses & Water Transport

  • Several operators offer guided bus tours around the city and Hawke's Bay region.
  • Most tours are fixed-route, guided experiences; hop-on-hop-off services are not standard.
  • No regular boat taxi services; water transportation for specific tours.
  • Options coastal cruises, fishing charters, or picturesque tours from the dock.

Accessibility Services

  • Most modern public buses (Go Bus) are accessible for wheelchairs.
  • Many newer buildings and sights have ramps or lifts.
  • Certain older Art Deco buildings could have restricted access due to their historic nature.
  • Consult individual venues or tour operators beforehand for particular mobility needs.

Unique Local Transport

No Cable Cars

Napier does not feature cable cars, funiculars, or similar unique public transport systems.

Distinct from Wellington's Cable Car.

Heritage Vehicles

Vintage car rentals for exploring the Art Deco city in style are an option.

In demand during Deco Festival.

Bike Accessibility

Extensive cycle paths make biking a main mode of active exploration.

Hawke'the Bay of Trails are well-maintained.

Walking & Cycling Focus

Pedestrian Comfort
  • City center and Marine Parade are very walkable.
  • Self-guided Deco walking maps are available.
  • Most main attractions are a short walk from each other.
Biking Advantages
  • Hundreds of kilometers of flat, easy cycle paths exist.
  • Trails connect to vineyards, rivers, and other towns.
  • Suitable for all fitness levels.

Safety on Foot & Bike

  • Helmets are legally for all cyclists within New Zealand.
  • Cycle routes are generally separate from main roads.
  • Always use designated crossings and follow driving regulations.
  • All public areas are safe for pedestrians and cyclists during the day and evening.
  • Exercise caution on busy roads without designated cycle lanes or sidewalks.
  • Biking is an active and memorable way to explore the region.

Getting Around Insights

Explore the Hawke'the Bay of Trails by bicycle for a memorable and active way of exploring the region. The city center walking is the best way to explore it.

For convenience and wider exploration, consider a rental car or utilize ride-sharing services.

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