Napier has proven to be a tourist hotspot, with a strong February performance and more momentum expected as the year progresses.
February has delivered a strong month for Napier’s CBD, with both foot traffic and consumer spend showing significant increases, reinforcing the power of events and visitation in driving economic activity.
Data from Marketview shows the Art Deco Festival 2026 generated a 10.08 percent increase in spend compared to 2025, highlighting not just strong attendance, but high-quality local and visitor spending.
Across the month, momentum continued to build. Average daily spend in February was up 3.48 percent on January, while daily foot traffic increased significantly, up 103 percent month-on-month, driven by key events including Art Deco.
Napier City Business Inc (NCBI) General Manager Pip Thompson said the results tell a compelling story.
“February was a really strong month for Napier. What we’re seeing is not just more people in our city, but people spending well, and that’s a real measure of success for our local businesses.”
A combination of major events and visitor activity contributed to the strong performance, including the Art Deco Festival, the Warriors game, and a steady flow of cruise ship visits.
Napier’s compact layout also plays a part, with McLean Park’s proximity to the CBD helping drive strong visitor flow into local businesses around events.
Napier City Council Tourism and Events Lead Kevin Murphy said sporting brands like the Warriors play a big role in drawing people into the city.
“A team like the Warriors naturally draws a crowd, with a wide range of fans across the country. It was fantastic to have them back in the region and to see such a strong turnout, bringing real Wahs energy into Napier.”
Art Deco Trust Marketing Manager Matthew Bonnett said the Art Deco Festival continues to deliver strong economic benefits for the city.
“Many inner-city venues reported some of their strongest trading on record during the festival, highlighting the impact of a multi-day event. As New Zealand’s largest heritage festival and a global arts event, Art Deco attracts visitors from around the world and delivers millions in economic impact across the CBD and nationally.”
Thompson said the results reinforce the importance of continuing to invest in events and activations.
“Foot traffic is one thing, but quality spend is what keeps businesses thriving. February shows what’s possible when we create reasons for people to come into our city and stay a little longer.”
With a strong pipeline of events and ongoing investment in the city centre, Napier is well-positioned to build on this momentum.
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