Napier, New Zealand

Capital City

With a population of just 66,400, Napier is a small coastal city that can feel sleepy at times. The 1931 earthquake that destroyed much of the city center has left it rebuilt in a distinctive Art Deco style, drawing tourists but also making it susceptible to soil liquefaction. And while the sunny, dry climate is a boon, the city's location leaves it vulnerable to devastating floods, as evidenced by the extreme rainfall event in 2020. Overall, Napier offers a relaxed pace of life, but persistent bureaucratic headaches and natural disaster risks make it better suited for retirees and laid-back vacationers than ambitious strivers.