Kapiti Coast

Kapiti Coast

Why go here? Wildlife in a beautiful coastal setting.

Need to know ...

The Kapiti Coast offers wildlife experiences and craft galleries.

Main Centres

Paraparaumu – main centre.
Levin – ideal base for exploring.
Otaki – historic town midway along the coast.

Eating Out

Waterfront Brasserie (Marine Gardens, Raumati Beach, Paraparaumu, t +64 4 902 6363) – unbeatable views of Kapiti Island. Relaxed atmosphere.
Fishermans Table Paekakariki (SH1, Main South Rd, Paekakariki, + 64 4 292 8125) – relaxed dining overlooking the Kapiti Coast.
Lindale Farm Kitchen (Lindale Centre, SH1 Paraparaumu, t +64 4 297 0916).

Something to Take Home

NZ Gifts & Souvenirs (Lindale Centre, SH1 Paraparaumu, t +64 4 297 0916) – knitwear and sheepskin products.
The Olive Shop (Lindale Centre, SH1 Paraparaumu, t +64 4 297 0916) – olives, olive oil, pestos and more.

Did you know?

The Kapiti Coast was the stronghold of the Maori Chief Te Rauparaha in the 1820s and 1830s.

Websites to Check Out

www.naturecoast.co.nz
Kapiti Coast Travel Information

Sights

The incredible birdlife of Kapiti Island – where else can you experience a native New Zealand Kaka parrot landing on your head?

Watch the sun setting across the ocean – Paekakariki Hill is the perfect vantage point.

Action

Saddle-up and go horse riding on the beach.

Hike or cycle along the Kapiti Coast Walkway and Cycle Way.

Relax

Taste the local goodies at roadside stalls or specialist stores! The Kapiti region is renowned for gourmet foods including chocolates, wines, liqueurs, gourmet sausages, confectionery, cheese and ice-cream.

Explore the Southwards Car Museum – home to the Southern Hemisphere’s largest collection of antique and unusual cars.

THE experience

Kapiti Island is a wildlife reserve of international importance. Pests have been eradicated from the island to create a predator-free sanctuary for some of the world’s most endangered birds. The result is an unparalleled opportunity to see rare native birds in the wild. You’ll need a permit from the Department of Conservation. Contact the Conservation Information Centre (t +64 4 472 7356).