Par2 MiniGolf

Updated June 6, 2025

Description

Let me set the scene for you: a breezy day on the Hawke’s Bay coast, and you’re ready for some light-hearted action that’s just a step up from the ordinary. That’s where Par2 MiniGolf comes in—a place where locals mull over their best shots and visitors end up giggling over wild putts. The real beauty? It’s a charming mix of competition and casual hangout right across from some stunning waterfront views. So you’re battling a cheeky wind putt while ferries and dolphins laze by (okay, maybe not every day for dolphins). Whether you’re rolling in with the family or wrangling a couple friends for afternoon bragging rights, it’s amazing how much fun is packed into 18 holes.

I remember my last trip here—a friendly wager with my cousin turned into a surprisingly epic contest. One second you’re lining up a seemingly simple shot, the next you’re bent over in stitches as the ball ricochets into the rough. I’ll be honest: I lost. But just barely! Is it perfect? Not always. Some holes might feel a bit dated, but there’s a certain old-school charm buried in the quirks. Plus, the staff are usually in good spirits, offering pointers with a wink. It’s just good, classic fun—nothing pretentious or over the top.

The course itself is split into two themed layouts. You can pick your challenge based on your mood or the age of your mini golfers (or how ambitious you all are after lunch). And, yes, it’s totally kid-friendly—there’s rarely an angry parent or bored child here. One thing I absolutely love: it’s accessible, with wheelchair-friendly paths and parking, so no one’s left out. No onsite restaurant, mind you, so don’t come starving, but downtown’s eateries are just a hop away if your victory calls for pizza and ice cream.

Key Features

• Two uniquely designed 18-hole courses—each with a local flavour and its own personality. Makes for great replay value.
• Family-friendly, with easy rules and gentle challenges suited for all ages—from toddlers wielding giant clubs, to teens out for TikTok-worthy fails.
• Wheelchair-accessible entrance and parking—everybody gets to join in, and I appreciate how rare that still is, honestly.
• Located right by the scenic waterfront; your Instagram feed will thank you for the sea breeze and backgrounds.
• Open year-round, slaying the myth that mini golf is only a summertime thing.
• Quirky obstacles and local motifs that tip a hat to Napier’s culture and art deco history.
• Affordable rates, especially if you’re rolling deep with family or friends.
• No restaurant on site, but Napier’s buzzing café scene is just across the street for all after-game hunger emergencies.
• Staff friendly enough you’ll wish you could tip your scorecard instead of just returning it at the end.
• Free putter and ball hire—no need to lug around your own (my old rubber-gripped “lucky” putter can stay at home).

Best Time to Visit

In my humble opinion, the ideal moment is a bright, breezy afternoon. That’s when you get the best light off the bay (and the funniest wind-blown putts). Summer does tend to get a little crowded, especially on weekends and school holidays—families love this spot (can’t really blame them). Weekday mornings or early evenings are gems. Fewer people, more room to behave like a goofball without an audience.

Winter? Honestly, mini golf in a beanie and scarf has a surprising kind of charm, and the place is quieter. Plus, if you catch a clear day, the air feels extra crisp—not to mention there’s no sunburn risk. Locals know: after a rain, the courses can be a touch slick, so check the forecast or give them a ring if the weather’s a bit iffy. Don’t sleep on autumn either; you might just get a solo course when the leaves start to turn and the crowds thin out.

One last thought: if you’re the competitive type, timing your visit before catching a sunset over the water really sets the mood for a hole-in-one photo finish.

How to Get There

First things first—you don’t need to be a human GPS to find this spot. Par2 MiniGolf sits right across from Napier’s main waterfront drag. If you’re coming from downtown, you can literally stroll over in under ten minutes (no excuse for not taking a seaside detour, in my book). For folks driving in from out of town, parking’s usually pretty manageable close by. They’ve got wheelchair-friendly spots too.

Coming by bike? You’ll fit right in with the locals. And public transport around Napier is pretty straightforward, though the walk along the parade is half the fun—seriously, not many cities have a seaside promenade quite like this one.

Just a heads up: during big events or festivals, traffic around the waterfront can be weirdly slow. Plan for a few extra minutes and treat yourself to a stroll if you can. You’ll wind up mentally prepping your best golf puns as you go.

Tips for Visiting

Here’s where I spill the secrets I wish I’d known my first time out:

• Arrive a little early—especially in peak season. The front desk can get chatty with lines, but that’s half the local charm.
• Bring sunblock. Seriously. No matter how many clouds are rolling through, that bay sun will sneak up on you. Umbrella hats are optional, but sunglasses are never a bad call either.
• If you can, try both courses. Each one’s got its own curveballs. One’s tougher, one’s a bit more playful. You’ll definitely end up with favorites that surprise you.
• Go for a rematch. The second round’s always better—I learned you play smarter (or at least, with less dignity, which is almost as good).
• Hydrate and snack. There’s no snack bar. I pack a water bottle and maybe a few granola bars if I’m leading the family charge. Post-game, take your appetite to the nearby cafés—they’ve got everything from fish and chips to vegan treats.
• Keep it friendly. Par2 isn’t the PGA Tour—no need to take things too seriously. You’ll get more out of it cheering each other on than trying to one-up your six-year-old nephew.
• Bring wipes or hand sanitizer. There’s nothing gross here, but mini-golf means a lot of surfaces, and sometimes laughter-induced face-palming. Trust me.
• Watch out for wind. Sometimes you’ll line up the perfect putt, only for the coastal breeze to nudge it off course. Call it a “local hazard” and thank the golfing gods for good stories to tell.
• Group bookings? Well worth it for birthdays or team-building. Call ahead if you want the whole gang rolling.
• Meet the locals. If you see a regular, don’t be shy—folks here are chatty. One local once showed me a crazy bank-shot trick the pros would envy. Let’s just say, putt-putt wisdom gets freely shared here.

Last bit of advice? Don’t forget to take silly photos (bonus points for matching golf poses). Par2 MiniGolf in Napier is one of those simple joys where the experience is bigger than the game. You might come for the putts but you’ll leave with stories—plus maybe a playful rivalry or two. Go on, give it your best swing.

Key Highlights

• Two uniquely designed 18-hole courses—each with a local flavour and its own personality. Makes for great replay value.
• Family-friendly, with easy rules and gentle challenges suited for all ages—from toddlers wielding giant clubs, to teens out for TikTok-worthy fails.
• Wheelchair-accessible entrance and parking—everybody gets to join in, and I appreciate how rare that still is, honestly.
• Located right by the scenic waterfront; your Instagram feed will thank you for the sea breeze and backgrounds.
• Open year-round, slaying the myth that mini golf is only a summertime thing.
• Quirky obstacles and local motifs that tip a hat to Napier’s culture and art deco history.
• Affordable rates, especially if you’re rolling deep with family or friends.
• No restaurant on site, but Napier’s buzzing café scene is just across the street for all after-game hunger emergencies.

Location

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