Things to Do in Kapiti, Wellington
If you want a super relaxed atmosphere to share with the native wildlife of New Zealand, then Kapiti is your place. Just under an hour away from Wellington, the Kapiti Coast is a beach and dune-filled paradise home to nature reserves and small settlements.
Relax on the beach with a view of Kapiti Island with a local beer in hand or go for a horse ride on the coastal cliffs for epic views. You can even stay on Kapiti Island overnight to spend time with a Maori community and get the rare opportunity to see a kiwi bird in the wild.
Get your full fix of Kapiti with our complete travel guide to the Kapiti Coast.
Table of Contents
1. Explore Nga Manu Nature Reserve
Located near Waikanae, Nga Manu Nature Reserve is a family-friendly haven for native New Zealand wildlife. We personally love the walk-through aviaries, where you can get up close to various bird species like tui and kaka parrots.
The reserve also offers unique encounters with tuatara, geckos and eels. It’s one of the best places we’ve experienced for seeing native wildlife outside of zoos.
From what we’ve seen, it’s an incredible way to spend an afternoon discovering New Zealand’s natural treasures. Check out more Great Things to Do in Waikanae.
© NZPocketGuide.com2. Whareroa Farm Recreation Reserve
Located in Paekākāriki, Whareroa Farm is a nature lover’s paradise that doubles as a working farm. This expansive recreation reserve boasts a network of trails perfect for walking, mountain biking, and horse riding through a diverse landscape of retired pastureland, regenerating native bush, and wetlands.
With seven remnant blocks of native forest and numerous streams, it’s a haven for over 30 bird species.
We love the 16 different trails to explore, many leading to superb views of the Kāpiti Coast.
This local gem also serves as a valued connection between Queen Elizabeth Park to the west and Akatarawa Forest Park to the east, truly linking the hills to the sea.
© Caleb Smith Photography - WellingtonNZ3. Sample Local Flavours at Kāpiti Foodie Hotspots
Embark on a tantalising culinary journey along the picturesque Kāpiti Coast, where a diverse array of foodie delights awaits. Start your adventure with a breathtaking vista from the top of Paekakariki Hill before diving into a world of flavours that will delight your taste buds.
Indulge in a wide variety of local specialities, from aromatic coffee and award-winning olive oil to unique liqueurs, spirits, satay and chilli sauces. Don’t miss the chance to sample refreshing cider, exquisite chocolates, and craft beer that showcase the region’s culinary prowess.
For an immersive experience, we recommend booking the “A Taste of Kapiti – Kapiti Foodie Delights Tour” with Kaewa Tours Ltd. This guided tour offers a comprehensive taste of the region’s finest culinary offerings, ensuring you don’t miss any of the Kāpiti Coast’s gastronomic treasures.
© Kaewa Tours Ltd4. Stroll the Paraparaumu Beach Waterfront
Paraparaumu Beach is the beating heart of Kāpiti’s coastal scene. We love the vibrant atmosphere, with its array of inviting cafés and charming shops lining the waterfront.
It’s the perfect base for leisurely beach walks, indulging in classic Kiwi fish and chips, and soaking up breathtaking views of Kāpiti Island.
According to locals, weekends often bring a buzz of activity with pop-up markets and events, adding an extra layer of excitement to your visit. Whether you’re after a relaxing day by the sea or a lively coastal experience, Paraparaumu Beach delivers it all in spades.
© NZPocketGuide.com
5. Explore Queen Elizabeth Park
Stretching between Paekākāriki and Raumati South, Queen Elizabeth Park offers a diverse coastal playground for nature lovers and history buffs alike.
We’re big fans of its walking and cycling trails that meander through sand dunes and wetlands teeming with birdlife. The park also boasts a fascinating WWII legacy, having once housed over 20,000 US marine units.
Whether you’re up for a scenic picnic, a barbecue with friends, or a refreshing dip at the beach, this place has you covered. It is an ideal place to enjoy New Zealand’s natural beauty and rich history.
© NZPocketGuide.com6. Visit Kāpiti Island Nature Reserve
Escape to a protected wildlife sanctuary just off Wellington’s coast. Kāpiti Island is a haven for rare native birds, including kākā, takahē and kiwi. We personally love the chance to spot these incredible creatures in their natural habitat.
Book a guided tour or, for a truly immersive experience, stay overnight to catch a glimpse of nocturnal wildlife. Capital Personalised Tours can help organise your visit to this wild and isolated gem.
For the adventurous, a hike to the summit of Tuteremoana rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views.
© Capture Studios - WellingtonNZ7. Meet the Wildlife of Kāpiti Island
Kāpiti Island isn’t just a scenic sanctuary, it’s a haven for rare native birds you won’t see elsewhere. Stay overnight and you might just hear or spot the elusive little spotted kiwi, one of the smallest and rarest of New Zealand’s iconic birds.
During the day, keep your camera ready for the colourful takahē, a chunky, flightless bird once thought extinct and now thriving thanks to conservation efforts on the island.
Don’t be surprised if a cheeky kākā swoops down near you. These playful forest parrots are loud, curious, and not above stealing your snacks if you’re not careful.
Whether you’re a bird nerd or just love wildlife, Kāpiti Island delivers some unforgettable encounters. As we discovered first-hand, it’s a unique opportunity to see New Zealand’s native species in their natural habitat.
© NZPocketGuide.com8. Discover the Ōtaki Māori Heritage and Arts Scene
Immerse yourself in the rich Māori culture of Ōtaki, a town steeped in indigenous heritage. We’re particularly drawn to the historic Raukawa Marae, a focal point of Māori community life.
Art enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to Toi Matarau Gallery, showcasing exquisite indigenous artworks. As you explore the town, you’ll notice the bilingual signage, a testament to Ōtaki’s commitment to preserving te reo Māori.
Be sure to visit the Kapiti Coast Museum, which is located in a beautifully preserved post office building from 1907. Open Friday to Sunday from 1 pm to 4 pm, this place offers a captivating journey through time with its period rooms and communications heritage.
For more cultural experiences, check out our guide to the 10 Best Art Galleries & Museums on the Kapiti Coast.
© NZPocketGuide.com9. Marvel at the Southward Car Museum
Rev up your engines for a journey through automotive history at the Southward Car Museum. Boasting one of the Southern Hemisphere’s most impressive private motor collections, this 6,000 m² wonderland showcases over 400 classic cars, motorcycles, and even aircraft.
But that’s not all, folks! You’ll also find a magnificent Wurlitzer organ and event spaces to explore.
Open daily from 9 am to 4:30 pm, the museum offers more than just eye candy for car enthusiasts. Grab a bite at the on-site café, pick up a souvenir at the gift shop, or time your visit to coincide with one of their regular community events.
According to our editor-in-chief, Laura, “It’s a must-visit for anyone with a passion for wheels and engines!”
© Flying Saucer - WellingtonNZ10. Cycle Trails in Kapiti
Kapiti Coast Cycleway, a flat and scenic trail that runs along the coast and inland. It’s perfect for casual riders and families, connecting charming townships like Paekākāriki, Raumati, Paraparaumu, Waikanae and Ōtaki. But that’s not all Kapiti has to offer for cycling enthusiasts!
For those seeking a bit more adventure, the Whakatikei Loop in Akatarawa Forest Park offers a challenging 22 km (13.6 mi) ride through lush forest and along the Whakatikei River. It takes about 3-5 hours to complete and includes an exhilarating 8 km (5 mi) descent.
Families and beginners will love the Whareroa Stream Loop in Queen Elizabeth Park. This easy 4 km (2.5 mi) trail starts at Whareroa Beach and takes about 40 minutes to complete. For a mix of coastal views and inland trails, try the Paekakariki to Raumati South Loop (Grade 3), a 9 km (5.5 mi) ride through dunes and historic sites.
© Capture Studios - WellingtonNZMore About the Kapiti Coast
That’s it for our guide to the Kapiti Coast; for more information about this stunning coastal region, check out the following articles:
- Kapiti Coast – Guide for Backpackers
- 10 Best Art Galleries & Museums on the Kapiti Coast
- 10 Spots to Freedom Camp on the Kapiti Coast
Finally, if there’s anything we’ve missed, you’re likely to find it in The Complete Travel Guide to Wellington.
Sources:
The information in this guide has been compiled from our extensive research, travel and experiences across New Zealand and the South Pacific, accumulated over more than a decade of numerous visits to each destination. Additional sources for this guide include the following:
- Tourism New Zealand (General travel advice - Updated [2025])
- Adventure Mark (Health and Safety Audit - Updated [2025])
- Work Safe NZ (Adventure Activities Guidelines - Updated [2025])
- Department of Conservation (Tracks, hikes, campsites and more - Updated [2025])
- AdventureSmart (Know before you go - Update [2025])
- NZ Māori Tourism (Official Māori Tourism platform - Updated [2025])
- Tourism Export Council New Zealand (Tourism trade association - Updated [2025])
- TIA (Independent tourism association - Updated [2025])
- Tiaki Promise (Care for people place and culture - Updated [2025])
- Council websites and freedom camping maps (Local travel advice region by region - Updated [2025])
Our editorial standards: At NZ Pocket Guide, we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure accurate and quality content.
