Hawke's Bay Express
86 Meeanee Road, Taradale, Napier 4112
Rating: 4.9 ★ (42 ratings)
Details
Hawke's Bay Express offers a charming and unique way to explore Napier, presenting itself as a modern road train artfully styled to evoke an old-fashioned 1930s steam engine. This family-owned sightseeing tour provides a romantic, old-time atmosphere, immersing visitors in the glamour and decadence of the Art Deco era with its polished wooden floors, velvet-covered cushioned seats, and tasseled curtains. It stands out by travelling directly on city roads, allowing guests to experience Napier's vibrant character up close, even venturing into pedestrianised zones typically inaccessible to larger tour buses.
The journey itself is filled with highlights, including picturesque drives along Marine Parade with stunning seascape views of Cape Kidnappers, and a detailed exploration of Napier's iconic Art Deco architecture. Visitors will also discover historic Bluff Hill, home to early settlers' residences, and the lively port district of Ahuriri, now a haven for summer visitors. Engaging commentary brings the region's history to life, covering the catastrophic 1931 earthquake, the city's remarkable rebuild, and fascinating Maori legends, often including a brief stop at the Customs House.
This delightful tour suits a wide range of visitors, from families to history enthusiasts and architecture admirers, offering a relaxed and informative sightseeing experience with minimal walking. It is particularly popular with cruise ship passengers, often providing convenient quayside pick-ups and a comprehensive overview of Napier's distinctive charm and culture. The overall appeal lies in its ability to transport guests back in time, offering a stylishly memorable and fun way to discover the unique heritage of this beautiful New Zealand city.
Location
Contact
+64 21 935 820 | http://www.hbexpress.co.nz/
Comments
It’s very comfortable, quaint, cosy, and relaxing. We took the Hawkes Bay Express as part of a shore excursion from Royal Caribbean.
This is an excellent short trip around Napier revealing the town’s charm and allure.
The driver is the owner, his wife and daughter also worked the trip with us.
Overall- fully recommend this tour without hesitation.
The tour is operated by a father and son team, who also constructed the "train" which transports it's passengers around the Napier CBD and surrounding areas. The son drives the "locomotive" (a modified agricultural tractor), and provides commentary about the history of Napier, with an emphasis on the 1931 earthquake which largely destroyed the city, and the subsequent rebuilding effort, which resulted in most of the buildings being designed in the Art Deco style. His delivery style includes a great deal of dry humour.