Napier and Hawkes Bay Scenic and Art Deco Tour by VW Kombi

If you’re considering a way to see Napier and Hawkes Bay that’s both personal and fun, a VW Kombi tour might just be your ideal pick. This isn’t your typical sightseeing jaunt — it’s a cozy, intimate drive in a beautifully restored 1970s vintage van, with a knowledgeable guide, Craig, leading the way.

What sets this experience apart? First, the small group size of just six guests creates a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Second, the personalized approach means you’ll get plenty of time for photos and questions, plus a genuine local perspective.

One thing to keep in mind is the price point (around $143 per person); for some, it’s a fair deal considering the personalized service and sightseeing, but others might compare it to larger bus tours. This tour is best suited for visitors who appreciate a more laid-back, authentic way to explore, especially if you’re into vintage vehicles, scenic drives, and local flavors.

Key Points

• Personalized experience with a small group of only six guests
• Beautifully restored vintage VW Kombi adds character and nostalgia
• Diverse stops from scenic hilltops to local produce stands
• Expert commentary from Craig, making the sights come alive
• Flexible itinerary tailored to cruise ship schedules
• Value includes bottled water, though some treats like coffee and ice cream cost extra

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

This tour, offered by Avantogo Tours, is more than just a drive — it’s an opportunity to soak in the essence of Napier and Hawkes Bay in a relaxed, friendly setting. The fully restored 1970 Kombi is a real highlight. Its vintage charm and cozy atmosphere immediately make you feel like you’re part of something special, especially with just six seats to keep it intimate.

The Ride in the Kombi

From the moment you step into the van, you’ll notice the care that’s gone into restoring this classic vehicle. It’s not just a mode of transport; it’s part of the experience. The van isn’t equipped with air conditioning, so on very hot days, it might get a little warm, but most reviews note the weather was accommodating when they visited.

Craig’s friendly, humorous style makes the journey even more enjoyable. He’s clearly passionate about Napier and Hawkes Bay, and his commentary gives you a sense of connection to the area. The small group size isn’t just about comfort — it’s about fostering conversation and sharing stories that larger tours often miss.

Scenic Route and Stops

The first leg of the tour takes you along the stunning coast line as Craig navigates the scenic roads into the Tuki Tuki valley. Expect sweeping rural views and river vistas that showcase the natural beauty of the region. It’s the kind of scenery that makes you want to stop and snap photos — and you’ll have plenty of opportunities.

One of the most popular stops is the Red Bridge Container café, where you can grab a coffee or snack (at your own expense). It’s a laid-back spot perfect for stretching your legs and taking in the rural surroundings. Several reviews mention how much they enjoyed this pause, with some even describing it as a highlight.

Next, the journey takes you up Te Mata Peak, a must-see for panoramic vistas over Hawkes Bay. The drive itself is scenic, but the views from the top are breathtaking, providing a perfect backdrop for photos or just taking a moment to appreciate the landscape.

Descending the peak, the tour stops at a local fruit and vegetable outlet. This is a great chance to sample seasonal produce, with some reviews mentioning the freshness of the fruit and the pleasure of tasting local cherries, nectarines, and peaches.

The Arataki Honey Centre in Havelock North is another key stop. Here, you’ll enjoy honey tastings, see live hives, and learn about the sweet stuff that’s such a staple of New Zealand’s natural offerings. Guests often comment on how much they appreciated the opportunity to sample different honey varieties.

Art Deco Napier

The final segment of the tour takes you into the famous Napier Art Deco district. With the vintage van, it’s a fitting way to explore the architecture and history of this unique town. Craig’s commentary explains the significance of the Art Deco style, and the city’s buildings make for some excellent photo opportunities.

Flexibility and Suitability

An important aspect of this tour is its adaptability. For cruise ship passengers, the itinerary can be adjusted to fit tight schedules, ensuring you get a taste of Napier without the worry of missing your departure.

While the tour isn’t specifically geared toward families, it’s suitable for most travelers who enjoy scenic drives and interesting stops. It’s especially appealing if you’re into vintage vehicles or want a more personal, relaxed experience compared to large bus tours.

The Value of the Tour

At around $143 per person, this experience offers a good balance of personal attention, scenic variety, and local insight. Included in the price is bottled water, which keeps you refreshed, and the stops allow for exploring at your pace. The extra treats — coffee, ice cream, wine — are paid for separately, so budget accordingly.

Reviewers consistently mention how warm and engaging Craig is, with many highlighting the small group dynamic as a major plus. Several reviews rave about the knowledgeable guidance, noting that Craig answered all questions and shared amusing anecdotes.

The three to four hours duration strikes a nice balance — not too rushed but enough time to see multiple highlights without feeling exhausted. As one reviewer put it, “Craig was an incredible guide! We really enjoyed all the stops and the history he provided.”

What We Love About This Tour

• The small group size creates a friendly, intimate environment that feels personal.
• The vintage Kombi adds a sense of nostalgia and charm that elevates the whole experience.
• The variety of stops, from scenic lookouts to local food outlets, keeps the trip engaging.
• Craig’s storytelling and local knowledge make the sights come alive.
• The flexibility to tailor the itinerary to cruise schedules is a real bonus.
• The scenic drives through Hawkes Bay are genuinely beautiful, with plenty of photo opportunities.

What Could Be Improved

• The lack of air conditioning might be uncomfortable on very hot days, though most reviews indicate weather was fine during their visits.
• Some might find the cost slightly higher compared to larger tours, but the small group setting and personalized approach justify the price for many.
• The stops at coffee and ice cream are at your own expense, so budget extra if you want treats.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect if you’re after a relaxed, personable way to explore Napier and Hawkes Bay. It suits travelers who appreciate vintage charm, scenic beauty, and local flavors. It’s especially good for cruise ship visitors who need a flexible, efficient way to see highlights without feeling rushed.

If you’re looking for a more intimate experience with plenty of photo stops, stories, and a friendly guide, this is a solid choice. It’s also ideal for those who want to learn about the area from someone genuinely passionate about sharing its secrets.

FAQ About the Napier and Hawkes Bay Scenic and Art Deco Tour

Is this tour suitable for cruise ship passengers?
Yes, it’s designed with cruise visitors in mind. The itinerary can be adjusted to fit your schedule, making it a convenient way to explore without worry.

How many people will be on the tour?
The tour is limited to 6 guests, providing a cozy, personal experience that’s more engaging than large bus tours.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers the vintage VW Kombi ride and bottled water. Extras like coffee, ice cream, and wine are paid separately.

How long does the tour last?
The typical duration is about 3.5 to 4 hours, giving ample time to enjoy each stop without feeling hurried.

Can I customize the stops or itinerary?
The tour is flexible and can be adjusted, especially for cruise schedules, so you can prioritize the sites that interest you most.

Is the van air-conditioned?
No, the van does not have air conditioning. Most visitors find this acceptable, especially if the weather is mild, but it might be a consideration in extreme heat.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, most travelers find it suitable for most ages, especially those who enjoy scenic drives and casual stops.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a personable, scenic, and slightly nostalgic way to experience Napier and Hawkes Bay, this VW Kombi tour ticks a lot of boxes. Its small-group vibe, expert guidance, and scenic stops make it stand out from larger, more generic tours.

Whether you’re a vintage vehicle enthusiast, a lover of scenic countryside, or simply wanting to explore Napier without a rush, you’ll find this experience both enjoyable and meaningful. Just keep in mind that it’s a weather-dependent, relaxed outing — perfect for those who like a laid-back pace and engaging storytelling.

All in all, this tour offers genuine value, memorable moments, and a chance to see Hawkes Bay through the eyes of someone who loves sharing its beauty. It’s one of those experiences that stays with you long after the van pulls back into town.