Napier City Council | “When you bring people to Napier, it’s easy for them to see what a great lifestyle we have here,” James says. “The value for money is exceptional compared to bigger cities. It’s green, it’s open, and it’s affordable. It may be a smaller city, but it has all the attractions of the large city. Hawke’s Bay is also renowned for its excellent schools.” With a wonderful climate, the region is also known for its produce – especially its vineyards. “Many of the great New Zealand wines come from about 10 minutes from where I’m sitting,” James adds. “Wine is a very, very big part of our local economy, and we also have outstanding restaurants here to compliment that, which helps drive tourism. Our main challenge is our geographic isolation; however, Napier has an excellent airport and seaport providing easy and multiple connections for travellers and trade alike.” Following a devastating earthquake in 1931, Napier was forced to rebuild – and the resulting art deco architecture was the “making” of the city, says James. Each February, visitors from around the world flock
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