7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Napier

Napier, is a coastal city known for its sunny climate, Art Deco architecture, and rich cultural heritage. It's a haven for digital nomads who enjoy the blend of urban living and easy access to nature. While the city itself offers plenty to do, sometimes a weekend getaway is just what you need to refresh and recharge. From popular tourist spots to hidden gems, here are seven destinations perfect for a short trip from Napier.

Te Mata Peak

Just a short drive from Napier, Te Mata Peak in the Hawke's Bay region offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. It's a popular spot for hiking, paragliding, and mountain biking. The peak is steeped in Maori legend, adding a layer of cultural significance to your visit. On a clear day, you can see as far as the volcanic Ruapehu and out to the Pacific Ocean.

How to Get There: Te Mata Peak is about a 25-minute drive from Napier. The best way to get there is by car, allowing you the flexibility to explore the park at your own pace.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the chance to witness the sunrise or sunset from the peak. The changing colors of the sky make for an unforgettable experience.

Where to Stay: Consider staying at the nearby Craggy Range Luxury Vineyard Retreat for a touch of luxury, or the Havelock North Motor Lodge for a more budget-friendly option.

Where to Eat: After a day of exploring, enjoy a meal at Craggy Range Restaurant, known for its fine dining and locally sourced ingredients.

Castlepoint

Castlepoint is a scenic coastal destination that offers a mix of sandy beaches, a lighthouse, and the striking 'Castle Rock'. It's a great spot for fishing, surfing, and hiking. The lighthouse walk is a must-do, providing stunning views of the Wairarapa coast. Wildlife enthusiasts will also enjoy spotting fur seals and various seabirds.

How to Get There: The drive to Castlepoint from Napier takes approximately 3 hours. The journey itself is picturesque, with plenty of spots to stop and enjoy the rural New Zealand landscape.

Travel Tip: Visit the Deliverance Cove Track for a relatively easy walk that offers spectacular coastal views and leads to a historic lighthouse.

Where to Stay: Castlepoint Holiday Park and Motels offer comfortable accommodations with beachfront views, while Whakataki Hotel provides a more traditional stay.

Where to Eat: The Whakataki Hotel is not only a place to stay but also serves hearty meals perfect for refueling after a day of adventure.

Waipatiki Beach

For those seeking an off-the-beaten-path destination, Waipatiki Beach is a hidden gem. This secluded beach is surrounded by native bush and offers golden sands and clear waters. It's ideal for swimming, picnicking, and simply unwinding away from the crowds. The nearby scenic reserve also provides excellent opportunities for bird watching and nature walks.

How to Get There: Waipatiki Beach is about a 40-minute drive from Napier. A car is the best mode of transport, as it allows you to carry all you need for a day at the beach.

Travel Tip: Keep an eye out for the local wildlife, including native birds like the tui and bellbird, which are often seen in the surrounding trees.

Where to Stay: Accommodation options are limited in this secluded area, but nearby Napier offers a range of options, from the boutique Art Deco Masonic Hotel to the beachfront East Pier Hotel.

Where to Eat: Pack a picnic to enjoy on the beach, or head back to Napier to indulge in the diverse culinary scene, such as the fresh seafood at Pacifica Restaurant.

Central Hawke's Bay

The Central Hawke's Bay region is a pastoral idyll, with rolling hills, charming farms, and historic homesteads. It's a perfect getaway for those who appreciate New Zealand's rural heartland. Visit the local wineries, explore antique shops, and take in the history at the Central Hawke's Bay Settlers Museum.

How to Get There: Central Hawke's Bay is about an hour's drive south of Napier, making it an easy destination for a day trip or weekend stay.

Travel Tip: Check out the local farmers' markets during your visit to sample and purchase some of the region's freshest produce and artisanal goods.

Where to Stay: The Wallingford Homestead offers a unique stay in a historic setting, while Thornton Lodge Motel provides a comfortable base for exploring the area.

Where to Eat: Enjoy a meal at the historic Waipawa Hotel, which serves up classic Kiwi pub fare in a cozy atmosphere.

Porangahau

Porangahau is a coastal village that boasts one of the longest place names in the world. It's a tranquil spot known for its expansive beach, fishing, and historical sites. The area is also home to the Porangahau Country Club, where visitors can play golf or tennis.

How to Get There: The drive to Porangahau from Napier takes about 1.5 hours. The journey is straightforward, with scenic rural views along the way.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the chance to take a photo with the sign that displays the full Maori name of Porangahau, which is over 85 characters long!

Where to Stay: Accommodation options in Porangahau are limited, but the nearby Duke of Edinburgh Hotel offers a quaint and comfortable stay.

Where to Eat: The Duke of Edinburgh Hotel also serves as a local eatery, offering delicious meals and a chance to mingle with the locals.

Mahia Peninsula

The Mahia Peninsula is renowned for its stunning beaches, clear waters, and excellent surf. It's also a launching site for Rocket Lab's space missions, adding a unique twist to your visit. Enjoy water sports, explore the Morere Hot Springs, or simply relax on the beach.

How to Get There: Mahia Peninsula is about a 2-hour drive from Napier. The route is scenic, with coastal views for much of the drive.

Travel Tip: If you're lucky, you might catch a rocket launch from Rocket Lab's private launch site, which is an unforgettable experience.

Where to Stay: Mahia Beach Motel and Holiday Park offers a range of accommodations, from campsites to self-contained units with ocean views.

Where to Eat: The Sunset Point Sports Bar & Bistro in Mahia offers great food with a view, perfect for ending a day of exploration.

Kaweka Forest Park

For a true escape into nature, Kaweka Forest Park is the place to go. This rugged wilderness area is ideal for experienced hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. It offers a range of tracks, from day hikes to multi-day tramps, with the chance to encounter native wildlife and soak in natural hot springs.

How to Get There: The park is about a 1.5-hour drive from Napier. A 4WD vehicle is recommended for some of the more remote access points.

Travel Tip: The hot pools at Mangatutu Hot Springs are a must-visit for a soothing soak after a day of hiking.

Where to Stay: There are several Department of Conservation huts within the park for overnight stays, or you can opt for accommodations in nearby towns like Napier or Taupo.

Where to Eat: Due to its remote location, it's best to bring your own food and cooking supplies. However, the nearby town of Taupo offers a variety of dining options, such as the popular Bistro Lago.