48 Hours to Reconnect with Nature
Visit the Kāpiti Coast and Reconnect with Nature through all that the Coast has to offer. From the first Nature Reserve in New Zealand to huge marine reserves and great outdoorsy eateries scattered throughout the Kāpiti Coast is a great nature-based escape.
WHERE YOU'LL STAY
Kāpiti Glamping - Te Hapua Wetlands
Kāpiti Glamping's Te Hapua Wetlands tent, which sleeps up to five, is the ideal family or group accommodation in a very special setting. The tent sits next to a wetland lake - one of New Zealand's most rare and precious ecosystems and recognised locally as an area of special significance.
Decked out with a luxurious 4-poster queen bed, a bunk room containing 3 single beds, and lots of comfortable seating - everything has been thought of for comfortable glamping. A spacious verandah to the front of the tent is a great gathering space for socialising and watching the wetland wildlife in comfort.
In the evening kick back, relax, and jump in the hot tub (big enough for the whole family) for some soaking and star-gazing.
If you like the look of this, have a look at Kāpiti Glamping's Te Hapua Coastal site!
WHAT YOU'LL EXPERIENCE
Kāpiti Aero Club
Be wowed by the views from up above in a trial flight with Kāpiti Aero Club! From the cockpit, you'll be able to see the stunning landscape of the Kāpiti region and maybe even be able to fly the plane yourself!
WHERE YOU'LL EXPLORE
Kapiti Island Trip and Guided Tour
Take the 20 minute ferry ride across the marine reserve and land on New Zealand's oldest nature reserve! Be taken through the trails and tracks on the island with the guided tour from the Barrett whānau and be treated to a fully cooked lunch at the lodge on the island.
Kapiti Island is a popular destination all year round so bookings for the popular summer season need to be made well in advance. Authorised operators provide transport and tours of Kapiti Island as private boats may not land at Kapiti Island Nature Reserve.
E-bike Hire
Explore all Kāpiti has to offer from the comfort of an e-bike! With many flat paths and tracks suitable for all levels of fitness, the Kāpiti Coast offers some of the best cycling in the country and with a motor to help you its the perfect way to relax in nature!
TASTES YOU'LL ENJOY
The Lockup
52b Marine Parade , Paraparaumu
Home of the famous Jackie’s Gems, Lockup is a fun, casual, takeaway eatery serving delicious home-style food and locally roasted Dark Horse Coffee. With a seated backyard it's a great place to enjoy delicious coffee and food! The Lockup is kid and dog friendly so there's no need to leave the messy ones at home!
Ruth Pretty's Garden Room Cafe & Cooking School
41 School Road, Te Horo
Pretty by name and nature, Ruth's place is a foodie's delight. Open Tuesday to Sunday 9am to 4pm, Ruth Pretty's kitchen shop and Garden Room Cafe is locally famous for their coffee and cake deal. Set in a rustic glass-covered outdoor area it is the perfect place to unwind. The locals make a beeline for the Ginger Gems!
You're not a true foodie until you've graduated from one of Ruth's Cooking school classes!
Salt and Wood BBQ
11 Ngaio Rd, Waikanae
The Salt & Wood BBQ brew-pub is unashamedly all about meat and beer. Connected to the North End Brewery by a large glass wall, the Salt & Wood team insist that "there's no combo on earth like legit American BBQ and a cold pint"
Can't decide which of the 14 or so beers brewed at the on-site North End Brewery you should have with your meal? Ask the team which pairs best with your meal or share a 6-beer tasting tray with a friend and then have a pint of your favourite.
There’s also a large wine and cocktail selection, and well-thought breakfast and burger menus for all-day dining.
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!
Relish Cafe
12 Elizabeth Street, Waikanae
Relish Cafe - An Iconic Cafe over the tracks in Waikanae.
The cosy 1923 built cottage now converted to Cafe, is on the corner of Elizabeth St & Anne St.