population: 0.138 million

extension: 1,428 square kilometers

Museums

You can visit the Hawke's Bay Museum and Art Gallery, located in Napier. It features a collection of artifacts, art, and exhibits related to the cultural heritage and natural history of the region. You may also want to check out the MTG (Museum Theatre Gallery) Hawke's Bay in Napier, which showcases local and national art exhibitions, as well as historical and cultural displays.

If you are interested in visiting more museums, you can head to Auckland, which is about 5-6 hours by car or 1-hour by plane from Napier-Hastings. Auckland has several excellent museums, including the Auckland War Memorial Museum, which provides insights into New Zealand's history and culture, and the Museum of Transport and Technology (MOTAT), which showcases New Zealand's transportation history through interactive exhibits.

Food

Some of the most recommended, popular, and typical dishes to eat according to local people in Napier-Hastings (New Zealand) are:

1. Fish and Chips: This classic New Zealand dish is a must-try when visiting Napier-Hastings. You can find this dish at many fish and chip shops throughout the region.

2. Pies: Meat pies are another popular food in New Zealand, and there are many varieties to choose from, such as steak and cheese, mince and cheese, and bacon and egg.

3. Kiwi Burger: This burger is made with a beef patty, beetroot, lettuce, tomato, onion, cheese, and fried egg, and is a unique take on the classic hamburger.

4. Whitebait fritters: This dish is typically made with fresh whitebait mixed with eggs, flour, and milk or cream, then pan-fried until crispy. It's a delicious and unique New Zealand specialty.

5. Hokey Pokey Ice Cream: This ice cream flavor, which features crunchy pieces of honeycomb toffee, is a favorite among locals and a must-try when visiting Napier-Hastings. You can find it at many ice cream shops and cafes throughout the region.

Activities

Sure, here are some fun activities that locals enjoy in Napier-Hastings:

1. Visit the farmers' markets: There are several farmers' markets in Napier and Hastings where you can taste some of the best locally grown produce, artisanal cheeses, olive oils, and baked goods.

2. Explore Art Deco architecture: Napier is known for its stunning Art Deco architecture, which was built after a massive earthquake destroyed the city in 1931. You can take a self-guided walking tour or join a guided tour to explore the beautiful buildings.

3. Go cycling: The Hawke's Bay region is famous for its scenic cycling routes, which will take you through vineyards, orchards, and picturesque coastal towns. You can rent a bike or join a guided tour to explore these routes.

4. Visit wineries: Hawke's Bay is one of New Zealand's top wine regions, and there are several wineries in the area that offer tastings and tours. Some popular wineries include Craggy Range, Te Mata Estate, and Mission Estate Winery.

5. Surfing: If you're into water sports, there are several great surf spots around the Napier-Hastings area. Ocean Beach and Waimarama Beach are two popular spots among locals.