A fun-tastic family weekend away
Come and play for the weekend! Kāpiti Coast’s big backyard is the perfect place for families of all ages - and there's no shortage of things to do. Here are some ideas for an adventure-packed weekend that won't be forgotten quickly.
Southward Car Museum
Otaihanga Rd, Paraparaumu
Housing some of the world’s rarest and most valuable vehicles, Southward Car Museum is considered the premier privately owned automotive collection in the Southern Hemisphere.
The grounds include stunning landscaped gardens and lake including a bush walk.
There are regular theatre and music performances, and conference and exhibition facilities are available for hire. Refreshments available from the gift shop. Watch for the annual Open House and Auto Jumble Sale Days, advertised on their website and in the press.
Choose a local favourite for lunch, brunch and dinner
With so many great eateries on the Kāpiti Coast, it can be hard to choose which one to visit. These are some child-approved favourites.
Salty’s Diner
44 Seaview Road, Paraparaumu Beach
Calling itself the "rowdy little sister who gets away with anything", the Salty's team deliver good ole diner food served up with friendly and casual service, and a side of inappropriate kitchen banter. Salty's tasty eats & North End Brewing beers are served from a lovingly converted vintage Airstream inside the building - right in the heart of Paraparaumu Beach.
They promise to keep the food fresh with a big, bold and smokey menu that provides an epic tasting experience. It's a place to catch up with mates, chill, and enjoy the feed. For the competitive types there's old-school pinball and arcade machines to while away your time.
What more could you want?
Two Fat Chefs
30 - 31 Marine Parade, Paraparaumu
Nestled into the Paraparaumu waterfront is a fantastic cafe, after opening in 2019 it has quickly become a local favourite and is regularly packed out for Sunday brunches! Two Fat Chefs is the perfect place to sit down and watch Paraparaumu go by!
Sunday Cantina
31 Poplar Avenue, Raumati South
Well known for their spectacular salads and divine raw baking, the Sunday Cantina kitchen makes the most of the abundance of local produce the region has on offer. Not only is the food fresh and full of flavour the ingredients also tell the stories of the amazing local people who, with love, grow and produce food for their community.
It's the perfect place for food that will delight all of your senses.
Insider's secret: join one of chef Fi's famous cooking classes to take your cooking to another level!
Relax, recharge and do it all again tomorrow
With these fantastic family-friendly accommodation options.
Paekākāriki Holiday Park
180 Wellington Road, Queen Elizabeth Park, Paekākāriki
Welcome to the Paekākāriki Holiday Park! A relaxed holiday park in the small coastal township of Paekākāriki. Just a 45 minute drive from Wellington City, this lovely wee holiday park offers affordable accommodation for everyone.
From RV camp sites and caravan travellers to backpackers, retirees and families - everyone can unwind, relax and enjoy their stay.
El Rancho Holiday Park
58 Weggery Drive, Waikanae Beach
El Rancho Holiday Park, just off the Expressway and a short walk to Waikanae Beach provides comfortable accommodation from camping and caravan sites to cabins and lodges. Most of the accommodation is self-serviced leaving you more dollars to enjoy your holiday.
With a wide variety of on-site activities, the location is ideal for walking and cycling with tracks bordering the Waikanae River and around the estuary to Waikanae Beach.
The El Rancho complex also has a range of really decent motel units depending on budget and preference. There are units suitable for individuals, couples and families at a very competitive price.
Kāpiti Coast Visitor Map
Pick up your free copy from Kāpiti Coast District Council’s libraries, swimming pools or main reception at 175 Rimu Road Paraparaumu. Maps are also available at visitor attractions around the district and the Greater Wellington Region.
Download the PDF here: Kāpiti Coast Visitor Map