History
Come to New Zealand’s oldest prison and learn about the different phases of the complex as an army barracks, quarantine centre, lunatic asylum and more.
Hangings Stand in the hanging yard and picture yourself as a spectator who paid a shilling to watch a hanging taking place.
Ghosts Listen to stories of ghostly sightings and paranormal activity in the prison’s creepy corridors. Feel the chill as you are told the sinister story of Roland Herbert Edwards' ghostly appearance on the anniversary of his death.
Criminals
Learn about some of the famous and infamous characters that called Napier Prison home, including a mass murderer, a drug baron and gang members from all over New Zealand.
Escapes Hear tales of death-defying escapes, as we show you where and how the most daring criminals made their break for freedom!
End of an Era... The prison was deemed unfit as far back as the 1970s and was described as "comfortable but draconian". It was finally decommissioned in 1993.
...Or was it? Re-opened in 2002 as a tourist attraction and backpackers’, Napier Prison has been given a new lease on life. Now is your chance to see the truth behind the walls.
More...
Visit beautiful Centennial Gardens with its walkways and waterfalls, built on the old quarry site excavated by prisoners under the supervision of quarry master Jack "the bastard" Adams.
As you leave have a look closely at the prison walls built by the inmates at and see the pictures carved in the solid blocks of limestone.
The beautiful Centennial Gardens.
Combining historical fact and amazing personal tales in the original
prison environment, Napier Prison Tours offer guests and visitors alike an experience
behind bars you'll always want to remember.
