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Home , Northern Explorer, Overlander (train), Paraparaumu, Paraparaumu Beach, Reikorangi, Southward Car Museum

Kapiti VISITOR GUIDE

tararua forest park otaki te araroa trail queen elizabeth park te ara o whareroa track tuatara brewery nga manu nature reserve trinity farm golf club otaki kite festival maoriland film festival shop sport reserve play waikanae estuary www.kapiticoastnz.com RAUMATI BEACH AT SUNSET

Photo credit: Grace Simmonds

See the largest private collection of rare and collectible cars TOP THINGS in the Southern Hemisphere at Southward Car Museum. WELCOME Go to a craft beer tasting session at Tuatara Brewery with TO DO IN KĀPITI matched hors d’oeuvres made from local ingredients. Visit the birds and tuatara at Ngā Manu and feed the eels. TO KĀPITI Have a coffee and slice of cake at Ruth Pretty’s Springfield House and explore the kitchen and garden shop, or maybe take a cooking class. With 40kms of unspoilt beaches sheltered from Enjoy a takeaway and sunset on ‘Fish 'n Chip Hill’ Paraparaumu Beach. prevailing westerly winds by Kāpiti Island, to the magnificent, wild landscape of theTararua Fly over Kāpiti in a plane or helicopter. Range and Forest Park, the natural beauty of Follow in the footsteps of Tiger Woods and play golf at Kāpiti is breath-taking. The area attracts artists Paraparaumu Beach Golf Club. and entrepreneurs who help make it a vibrant, Fish for whitebait and trout on Waikanae or Ōtaki rivers creative place with a friendly coastal village or surf cast off the beach and enjoy your kai moana. atmosphere. Easily accessed by car, train or air, Experience the spectacle of hundreds of kites on the beach and just 45 minutes drive from at the Ōtaki Kite Festival in February 2019. on the Expressway, it is the perfect place for a Be moved and inspired by watching some of the amazing relaxing break. shorts and feature films shown at the largest indigenous Te Araroa ’s Trail Photo credit: Martyn Cole film festival this side of the world –Māoriland Film Festival March 2019. CONTENTS Climb to the top of Kāpiti Island and enjoy an incredible panoramic view from The Sounds to Taranaki. 2 On two wheels or two legs 34 Raumati 6 Get closer to nature 34 Tramp in the Tararua Forest Park. Paraparaumu 9 Taste Kāpiti 35 Otaihanga Reserve Play 36 Walk the ‘Stairway to Heaven’ part of the national Te and Waikanae Estuary 11 Enjoy the arts 36 Araroa Trail. Paraparaumu Beach 12 Kāpiti in the movies 37 Get into your groove at the family friendly day-long Kāpiti Island Nature Reserve 16 Shop ‘til you drop 37 Coastella Music Festival held in the park–like grounds Waikanae 19 Indulge those green fingers 38 at Southward Car Museum in February 2019. Ōtaki 24 i-SITE information 40 Explore our rich history 28 Stay in Kāpiti 40 Take the kids or grandkids to Marine Gardens to the Museums 30 Getting here 42 playgrounds, splash pad and ride on the miniature trains. Come to the beach 32 Freedom camping 44 Cycle through Queen Elizabeth Park on the Te Ara o Go up river 33 Activity Directory 46 Whareroa track from Paekākāriki to Raumati South. Eel feeding at Ngā Manu Nature Reserve Photo credit: Ngā Manu Have a go 33 Accommodation Directory 50

Revised July 2018 1 VIEW FROM PAEKĀKĀRIKI HILL ROAD

Photo credit: Mark Coote tea rooms (open weekends PAEKĀKĀRIKI 11am–3pm) features displays about the rich and varied history of the station and surrounding area. Browse in the bookshop (believed to be the only one on a train The southernmost village in Kāpiti, Paekākāriki is station in New Zealand) and then an authentic Kiwi seaside village, regarded as have a cup of tea yourself in the the creative hub of the district with many actors, old tea rooms. dancers, musicians, film-makers, artists and Paekākāriki Holiday Park is sculptors choosing to make their home here. For a situated at the far end of the village next to Queen Elizabeth Park. It Te Ara o Whareroa cycle path small village, it has great facilities with cafés, a bar, was originally a US military base in Photo credit: Mark Coote bookshop, hotel, 24 seat luxury cinema, dairy, its World War II and became a holiday own radio station (tune in at 88.2FM), monthly camp in the 1950s. This tiny village The traditional Māori art of flax market, library, tennis court, organic greengrocer was home to 15,000 Marines weaving – harakeke – is alive and during the war. A memorial and and other speciality shops. well in Paekākāriki where the Te Rau historic display in Queen Elizabeth o Te Rangi weaving collective meet Park commemorates their part of in their own tiny club room in Tilley the area’s history. Road, on the outskirts of Queen The locals set the unique and Elizabeth Park. They run an annual relaxed vibe in Paekākāriki. It’s Queen Elizabeth Park can be event for beginners to learn about infectious. Visitors are made to feel accessed from Paekākāriki, offering care of harakeke bushes and how to like locals. They say experience lots of walking and cycling options harvest the leaves to use in weaving. Paekākāriki for a day and it will including a popular family-friendly stay with you for life. The eclectic cycle path Te Ara o Whareroa The surf’s often up in Paekākāriki. mix of residents demonstrate their through to Raumati South. A new When it’s not, paddle boarding in community spirit with planted Visitor Hub opened in 2017, near the sunset is a popular pastime. berms (areas of grass outside the entrance at Mackays Crossing. properties going on to the road). Anyone can help themselves to the fruit and vegetables grown in what Restored signal box at Paekākāriki is locally known as the community Station Photo credit: Mark Coote orchard and garden. The parks around Paekākāriki are cared for by cars were removed from passenger community groups who plant tens trains in World War 1, Paekākāriki of thousands of trees annually. was the main refreshment stop Paekākāriki was once an important on the trip north. The station tea stop on the Wellington and rooms were so busy, a 17 bed Manawatu Railway Company’s hostel was built nearby just for line from Wellington to , the girls serving teas. Nowadays completed in 1886. When dining a museum housed in the old Market Day in Paekākāriki Photo credit: Mark Coote

2 3 on what is considered one of the see the Kāpiti Coast all the way highlights of the national Te Araroa to Waikanae and Kāpiti Island in trail but be warned, it is not for silhouette. the faint hearted. You need to be Whareroa Farm recreation reasonably fit to walk it and not reserve near Paekākāriki offers suffer from vertigo. Most walkers walking, picnicking, horse riding train back from the end of the and mountain biking activites. trail in and then treat The reserve links to the adjoining themselves at one of the cafés in Akatarawa Forest. Paekākāriki.

Close to the village is Paekākāriki Hill Road which has a lookout stop Fun at Paekākāriki Beach Photo credit: Mark Coote at the top of the hill where you can

factory but now is home to a number of artists including Alan Wehipeihana whose varied work includes furniture made from old books. Fans of the arts will also enjoy the 1.5km Art Walk around the village made by the community featuring past and present poets and artists.

Paekākāriki is the muso centre of Kāpiti with St Peter’s Village Hall and Campbell Park Paekākāriki the Memorial Hall on the sea front Photo credit: Mark Coote packing in quality acts throughout Te Rau o Te Rangi Collective working on a harakeke project Photo credit: Mark Coote the year. The Memorial Hall is Many enjoy fishing off the beach. home to the Mulled Wine Concerts Safe swimming is available at the which run throughout the winter PAEKĀKĀRIKI 1 north end of The Parade, where and feature quality national and the Paekākāriki Surf Lifeguards international classical performers. St 2 patrol during the summer months. Peter’s Hall has had everyone from national icon Dave Dobbyn to the 4 Campbell Park and skate park on 3 Wellington Road is a great place wild gypsy beats of the Balkanistas. for the kids to play while Mum and Paekākāriki is gateway to the 10km THE PARADE Dad enjoy the vast ocean views. Te Araroa walking trail coastal 5 The village has its own art hub escarpment track featuring the 6 (usually open Friday to Sunday) popular ‘Stairway to Heaven’. upstairs in the Holtom Building. Reaching 220m above sea level, OCEAN RD TILLEY RD 1 This building used to be a sewing walkers enjoy spectacular views

TILLEY RD THE PARADE 9

WELLINGTON RD 7 8 1 Queen Elizabeth Park 2 Paekākāriki Holiday Park 3 Te Ara o Whareroa Cycleway AMES ST 4 Surf Lifesaving Club 5 Whareroa Farm 1 6 Campbell Park Playground 1 7 Station Museum 8 Finn's Cinema 9 Steam Inc. PAEKAKARIKI HILL RD Shops Train Station Playground View from Paekākāriki Hill Road lookout Photo credit: Mark Coote Toilets

4 5 BRIDGE AT RAUMATI BEACH

Photo credit: Mark Coote from the Raumati Sports Fishing RAUMATI Club. The club runs a popular annual surfcasting competition.

The Kāpiti Women’s Triathlon is held annually in Raumati, Raumati is the Māori word for summer, and starting from Marine Gardens and attracts large crowds of summer sure is good here. supporters. The triathlon is For a little place, Raumati Beach village has a designed for any female of any surprising number of speciality shops selling ability to have a go and achieve. fashion, homewares, gifts and books. There are Specialist shops in Margaret Road, Raumati Beach Photo credit: Mark also quality eateries with sushi, a bakery, French Coote Patisserie, cafés, a restaurant, bar and pub to Jackson started his film making choose from. career. A new state-of-the-art performing arts centre is being built here with the entrance off Raumati Road. The Margaret Road boutique shops are a big draw card for “Best park for Marine Gardens is popular with Wellingtonian shoppers and visitors families for its Splashpad waterpark, to Kāpiti with shops offering national young kids in playground, free BBQs to cook your and international brands (some are the Wellington sausages on and miniature railway exclusive New Zealand stockists). running at the weekend.

Kāpiti College, also situated off region” For the boaties, there is a boat Margaret Road, can lay claim to ramp at the beach behind Marine Mell, Wellington Raumati South beach walkway being the college where Sir Peter Gardens with a tractor available

Splashpad at Marine Gardens, Raumati Miniature ride on railway at Marine Gardens, Raumati

6 7 Separated from Paekākāriki by Raumati Beach and Raumati South Queen Elizabeth Park, Raumati both have sandy beaches great for VIEW FROM LOOKOUT AT OUR LADY OF LOURDES South has a small centre with swimming, surf casting, kayaking a dairy, café, restaurant and and other water sports. takeaway. It has a relaxed, alternative lifestyle feel to the area and also attracts creative artists who have left their mark on the mosaic bench and carvings on the street. There are tennis courts available for public use in Tennis Court Road, Raumati South. PARAPARAUMU

Paraparaumu is the administrative and retail centre of Kāpiti with the Civic Centre, Coastlands Shopping Mall, Coastlands Aquatic Centre and large format stores here. Multiscreen

Raumati Beach sunset Event Cinemas is here along with the shopping complex and food court. The i-SITE Visitor Information Centre is in the Mediterranean Foods RAUMATI 1 building just off the Main Road at the entrance 2 EXPRESSWAY to Coastlands. Our friendly staff can help you KIWI RD 1 Weka Park 3 RATA RD find accommodation, activities and attractions 2 Marine Gardens RAUMATI RD & Splashpad, throughout Kāpiti and New Zealand. Miniature Railway 3 Cycle Hire

RIMU RD Shops HILLCREST RD

Playground MARGARET RD RAUMATI RD Toilets The main town centre is to the west of the railway line which runs

ROSETTA RD from Wellington up the North MATAI RD Island. There are regular trains to Wellington and daily trains to (Capital

EXPRESSWAY Connection) and as part 1 of the scenic route.

GLEN RD To the east of the railway is one of the most dramatic landmarks on the Kāpiti Coast – Our Lady of ROSETTA RD MATAI RD Lourdes – a 14m high statue of POPLAR AVE the Virgin Mary on the 75m knoll RAUMATI LEINSTER AVE above the old St Patrick’s Church

TENNIS COURT RD SOUTH site accessed from Tongariro Street. THE ESPLANADE It was commissioned in 1958 to mark the 100th anniversary of the apparition of the Virgin Mary at Lourdes. It is one of the largest Our Lady of Lourdes, Paraparaumu statues of its kind in the world and Photo credit: Mark Coote

8 9 was built by Dutch artist Martin to Valley Road. The Nikau Reserve Roestenberg. When floodlit at is an easy, shady 1.2 km bush WAIKANAE ESTUARY night, its sparkling halo is visible loop walk with streams and small for kilometres. To get a great bird’s waterfalls, perfect for families on a eye view of the town centre and hot summer day. coast, climb the steep path and A few kilometres north is the turnoff visit ‘our’ Lady. to Otaihanga and Southward Car Follow State Highway 1 through Museum, one of the largest private Kāpiti Lights half a kilometre and car collections in the southern you will reach the Barry Hadfield hemisphere (described in our Nikau Reserve which connects Museums section). to the Bright Ridge Skyline Track

Photo credit: Mark Coote OTAIHANGA RESERVE AND WAIKANAE ESTUARY

Entrance to Southward Car Museum Follow the road past Southward Car Museum and take the turning for Otaihanga. The Otaihanga Reserve is a popular spot for picnics, family cricket PARAPARAUMU games and playing in the water. Cross the Waikanae 2 River over the swing bridge and turn left for a walk MAZENGARB RD along the Waikanae Estuary Scientific Reserve 1 EXPRESSWAY passing lagoons and through what is one of the most important bird spotting areas in New Zealand.

WATERSTONE AVE Banded dotteral, variable of early Māori who moved through 1 3 oystercatcher, pukeko and the area. Ngāti Apa, Rangitāea

MAKARINI ST dabchicks breed here. Other and Muaūpoko were followed by resident species include white- Ngāti Toa, Te Āti Awa and Ngāti fronted tern, Caspian tern, pied stilt, Raukawa. The estuary is the site of EXPRESSWAY scaup, brown teal, grey duck and a significant battle in 1839 known ARAWHATA RD 4 shoveler. Royal spoonbills nesting 1 Mazengarb Reserve, Hockey as Te Kuititanga. The area is sacred Turf & Playground on Kāpiti Coast regularly visit to to the people of Te Āti Awa ki 2 Southward Car Museum AORANGI RD feed in the shallow waters of the Whakarongotai who are tāngata 3 Paraparaumu Scenic Reserve estuary. Over 77 species of birds whenua of this area. 5 NIKAU PALM RD 4 Nikau Scenic Walk KAPITI RD can be found here. No wonder the 5 Ten Pin Bowling Kāpiti Coast is known as the bird 6 6 Aquatic Centre 1 7 Cycle Hire capital of New Zealand. Mik Peryer

RUAHINE ST 8 Coastlands Shoppingtown, of Kāpiti Bird Tours runs regular TONGARIRO ST Event Cinema & i-SITE tours and has extensive knowledge 9 Our Lady of Lourdes Statue RIMU RD of the local birdlife (see activity 8 9 Shops RUAPEHU ST Train Station listings at the end of the guide). Playground Middens, observation posts, pā 7 Toilets and burial grounds are reminders Royal Spoonbills

10 11 FISH 'N CHIP HILL

You will often see PARAPARAUMU people with crab nets or BEACH collecting shellfish here. Paraparaumu Beach for the past two decades. She has a small gallery open to the public. There is also a private gallery - Basement Art Works The largest of the seaside villages, Paraparaumu - at 3 Seaview Road, which holds Beach has a wide range of shops, cafés, four week exhibitions of different restaurants, holiday accommodation and a artists including photographers, One of the fairy doors at Paraparaumu sculptors and jewellers open on bustling Saturday market with local produce, arts Beach Photo credit: Sharon Hunter Saturdays 10 – 2pm. and crafts along with buskers. The Maclean Park playground and skate park are very popular with For our four-legged friends there families as are the picnic tables and benches facing is a popular, fully fenced dog park, the sea for al fresco takeaways. Wesley Knight Park, accessed from Ocean Road or Toru Road.

Paraparaumu Beach is also home Paraparaumu Beach is a wide For the little ones, have an to the course that tamed the expanse of sand leading to adventure and find the 16 Tiger – internationally acclaimed Raumati to the south and Waikanae fairy doors around the main Paraparaumu Beach Golf to north. It is popular for fishing, shopping area and parks Course – where caddie Steve boating, kayaking and you will www.paraparaumubeach.org.nz Williams started his career. often see people with crab nets Remember though, only fairies Leading New Zealand oil artist or collecting shellfish here. have the magical powers to open One of the many pieces of beach art Shona Moller has been working the doors! that appear on Kāpiti beaches at her beachfront studio at

Maclean Park Playground Boating at Paraparaumu Beach

12 13 PARAPARAUMU BEACH GOLF COURSE

Kāpiti Coast Airport is situated history near the air traffic control close to Paraparaumu Beach in tower on Kāpiti Road usually open Toru Road and has daily flights Sunday 10am – 4pm. Visitors can to and from Auckland with Air take a scenic helicopter ride from Chathams. Flights also go to Kāpiti Coast Airport with Heliworx Nelson and Blenheim with Air 2 or take the controls themselves There and . The airport and have a trial flight in a Cessna was the main passenger airport 152/172 with Kāpiti Aero Club. for Wellington in the 1940s when was being redeveloped. There is a small museum devoted to aviation

Paraparaumu Beach Saturday Market

“A flight with Heliworx was an PARAPARAUMU amazing experience and a must-do BEACH when you visit the area”

GOLF RD Vicky, Auckland 1

MANLY ST 2

3

GRAY AVE

KAPITI RD OCEAN RD

CEDAR DR

MARINE PARADE 4 REGENT DR TORU RD

BLUEGUM RD

LANGDALE AVE

1 Paraparaumu Beach 5 KAPITI RD Golf Club TEOTI ST 2 Boat Club & Boats to Kāpiti Island 3 Skatepark & Playground 4 Ocean Road Dog Park 5 Paraparaumu Airport Shops Playground Toilets Flying over Kāpiti in a Heliworx helicopter

14 15 VIEW FROM TUTEREMOANA AT THE TOP OF KĀPITI ISLAND

Photo credit: Jennie Gutry

KĀPITI ISLAND “The highlight of my time in NATURE RESERVE New Zealand; I saw more birds in a day than in Paraparaumu Beach is the gateway to Kāpiti Island, my entire life!” New Zealand’s oldest nature reserve. The island is Hana from London home to some of our rarest and most endangered Cheeky Kaka on Kāpiti Island birds which you can see in their natural habitat. Photo credit: Jennie Gutry Just 55 minutes by train or 45 minutes by car from including whaling try pots, highest point on the island at 521m, Wellington, Kāpiti Island feels like a million miles remnants of the island’s whaling a spot with incredible views to the away from the hustle and bustle of the capital city. history, and the historic whare South Island and Mount Taranaki built around 1860, the oldest that gives you the feeling you are building associated with nature on top of the world. conservation in the country. Here you can experience the Through fostering the restoration Walking tracks on the northern beauty of New Zealand as it was, of the once giant rainforests, You may well meet many of the end of the island pass through in times gone by, and where today the island is one of the most endangered bush birds and be grassland, shrub land, regenerating the birds are most definitely the important sites for bird recovery. astounded by the bird chorus, forest and the coastline and stars. Many international visitors Over 60 species of birds can be which is unlike anything you would provide fantastic views of describe this as the highlight of spotted here including kaka, hihi ever hear on the mainland just on freshwater Okupe Lagoon with their New Zealand vacation and (stitchbird), kōkako, takahē, pāteke these lower tracks. Or you could possible sightings of the majestic Wellingtonians are amazed this (brown teal), weka and tīeke take one of the two tracks to the kōtuku-ngutupapa (royal spoonbill). treasure is on their doorstep. (saddleback).

Just 10km long and 2km wide, Beware of the mischievous and Kāpiti Island was made a bird clever kaka (mountain parrot) who sanctuary in 1897. The Department will swoop down and open the of Conservation took over zips on your bag with their beaks administration for the island in 1987 in search of food, and the weka and efforts began to return the who seems to work in cahoots with island to its natural state. Possums the kaka. The flightless weka is a and rats were eradicated and the master at swiping things from your flora and fauna are now recovering bag if you leave it on the ground. free from farming, fire and pests Rangatira Point, in the middle of which once decimated the native the island, has lowland walks and bush. The island was declared tracks to the summit. The Rangatira predator-free in 1998. Loop is an easy walk with highlights Try pot from the whaling days on Kāpiti Island Photo credit: Jennie Gutry

16 17 Whichever part of the island you the island. The Barrett whanau explore, you will come back inspired, ancestors first arrived on the island relaxed and enthusiastic about the in 1820 and have been welcoming jewel in the Kāpiti Coast crown. visitors for generations. They offer a unique Māori welcome to the Bring togs and a snorkel for a island so close to their hearts. For refreshing swim off the beach in the breakfast, they might even serve Kāpiti Island Marine Reserve before you some of their unique Kāpiti your return trip to the mainland. Island Honey. Boats depart daily for a 15 minute Trips and overnight stays can be boat ride from Paraparaumu Beach VIEW FROM HEMI MATENGA WALK booked at the Kāpiti i-SITE or online by the Kāpiti Boating Club after through the Kāpiti Eco Tours or biosecurity checks to keep the Kāpiti Island Nature Tours websites island predator, weed and disease (details at the back of this guide). free (and no one wants to have a Day fares include boat travel, rat in their backpack!) the Department of Conservation permit and an introductory talk WAIKANAE Day trips are available through two operators, Kāpiti Eco Tours on arrival. Trips to the island are and Kāpiti Island Nature Tours. weather dependent and usually do Contact details for both are not run in July and August. included in our activities listings Waikanae is considered the garden and bird at the end of this guide. Advance capital of Kāpiti and deserved winner of New bookings are recommended but are not always necessary. Zealand’s most beautiful large town in the Keep New Zealand Beautiful 2015 awards. Some Overnight stays include guided kiwi spotting. Guests at the family- of the many beautiful private gardens are open owned Kāpiti Island Nature Tours to the public during the annual Lions Super lodge at the northern end of the Garden Trail. island are frequently rewarded by seeing a little spotted kiwi or brown kiwi or, at the very least, The town centre, Mahara Place, exhibitions year round. (Free; hearing their call throughout the Glamping on Kāpiti Island Photo credit: is a unique gathering place. Sit in open Tues to Sat 10am–4pm and night. For the ultimate couple Kāpiti Island Nature Tours the pretty square with a coffee or Sundays 1–4pm). In the adjacent experience, you can glamp under one of the town’s famous pies and library, friendly local information the stars on the north end of watch the world go by. Here are office volunteers will tell you where historic Whakarongotai Marae, to hire a bike, catch a bus, in fact “Experience nature as it was before shops, cafes, a luxury boutique where to track down anything you Shoreline Cinema (open daily) need to know. man arrived – a glimpse of paradise” and Artel Gallery which sells New A collection of ethnic restaurants, Zealand-made art and gifts (open Johanna, Auckland cafes and the local brewery in and seven days). Mahara Gallery is the around the square cater for the district’s art gallery and hosts quality

Whakarongotai Marae

18 19 WAIKANAE OPEN AIR POOL

inner person. North End Brewery is commemorated in its glorious of the produce they use in their sits next to The Salt and Wood stained glass windows) for the new “Nga Manu must be about dishes and also make their own Collective BBQ Restaurant and Parata Village which was the the only place on the baked goods in their Olde Beach Brewpub. Enjoy live music here on genesis of Waikanae. coast where you can see Bakery. Next door to Long Beach Sundays from 3pm. Maison 8 is a tuatara, kiwi, kakariki, is The Front Room, a café by Next door is the welcome stop before the start of kaka, native ducks and day and restaurant by night and a Museum, once Parata Village long-finned eels up close the Track. lovely garden area with wood-fired Post Office, with its nostalgic and personal. oven. At Waimea, with its prime Five minutes’ walk away is the train treasure trove of bygone days. Such good value!” beachside location, Greek and station (regular trains to/from (Open Fridays 1pm–4pm, Jean, Dunedin Sicilian chefs use local ingredients Wellington) with its fascinating Weekends 2pm–4pm and most with cured meats, cheeses, olives history board. Then on to beautiful public holidays. Check before and oils from Italy with new world St. Luke’s Anglican church visiting. Groups by arrangement.) where the owners for 50 years, cooking techniques to make tapas, brought from its original Greenaway And opposite is the 100 year old internationally famed potters and pizza, pasta and main meals. Road site in 1898, and given dairy, once the post office store, local history buffs, will regale you to the Diocese by Paramount with its evocative mural. The with coffee, scones and tales. Chief Rangatira Wi Parata (who history of the buildings in this Getting close to the eels at Ngā Manu Nature Reserve Photo credit: Ngā Manu street is recorded on four history Waikanae Beach area is down plaques. Te Moana Road (‘the road to the sea’ which is awash with cherry Five kilometres up the road is the blossoms in spring), and renowned pastoral Valley where for its international cuisine in tiny St. Andrew’s Church is several cafes and restaurants nestled, adjacent to the even staffed by chefs from around the older community hall, complete world who have chosen this idyllic with musket ports from the early spot. Locally grown produce and turbulent years before its relocation local seafood hold court here all from Parewanui near Tangimoana. year round a stone’s throw from the Round the corner down Ngatiawa sea. In Tutere Street Long Beach Road is the charming Reikorangi Café and Tavern grow much Mahara District Art Gallery Pottery, Farm Park and Cafe, The wide expanse of uncrowded beach is home to the Landsailing Kāpiti Club who regularly offer ‘have a go’ days when you can try one of their Blokarts and have a blast landsailing down the beach (wind dependent).

Open from November to Easter, the Waikanae Pool is a 33.3m lane pool heated to 29ºC with a smaller toddler’s pool heated to 32ºC and You may see a kiwi at Ngā Manu a hydroslide. It is a mecca for locals Landsailing at Waikanae Beach Nature Reserve Photo credit: Ngā Manu throughout the summer who bring

20 21 their picnics and often combine it Waikanae Estuary and Scenic with a trip to the nearby Waikanae Reserve offers another opportunity FRIENDLY KAKA AT NGĀ MANU NATURE RESERVE Park with skate park and two to enjoy Waikanae’s birdlife. Enjoy playground layouts to suit all ages. stories from Mik Peryer of Kāpiti Bird Tours as he points out up to Set in the largest remnant of 77 different species of birds on his coastal lowland swamp forest in world-renowned bird tours around Kāpiti, Ngā Manu Nature Reserve the lagoons and estuary walks. is a popular attraction for nature lovers with eel feeding, tuatara and many species of birds in a beautiful natural setting. If you are lucky, you can see New Zealand’s Nga Manu Nature rare brown kiwi in the nocturnal house and meet native birds in the Reserve is a popular walk-through aviaries. Open daily attraction for 10am – 5pm. If you are coming with a group, you can book exclusive nature lovers with use of BBQ island in the main pond, eel feeding, tuatara cook on the covered gas BBQ and enjoy eating your lunch at the picnic and many species of tables there. You can even stay the birds in a beautiful night here in Theo’s Cottage set inside the reserve, and awake to an natural setting. unforgettable dawn chorus.

NGARARA RD WAIKANAE

NGARARA RD EXPRESSWAY 1 Ngā Manu Nature Reserve 1 2 Waikanae Park 3 Waikanae Pool 4 Mahara Gallery 5 Kapiti Equestrian Centre Shops Train Station Playground Toilets

PEKA PEKA BELVEDERE AVE KAPANUI RD

2 RD NGARARA

BELVEDERE AVE PARK AVE 1 3

TO THE BEACH, RIMU ST GOLF COURSE NGAIO RD PARATA ST & BOATCLUB

KOHEKOHE RD 4

TE MOANA RD ELIZABETH ST

5 NGARARA RD NGARARA

TE MOANA RD 1 Waikanae River

BUTTERFLY GARDEN AT NGĀ MANU NATURE RESERVE

22 23 ŌTAKI KITE FESTIVAL

with shoppers all over the lower ŌTAKI . This street also includes an art and craft co- operative, Artscape, housed in the historic building used as a The cultural capital of Kāpiti, Ōtaki has a strong Courthouse in Ōtaki from 1891 until the 1960s. The Ōtaki Māori Māori identity and history. Since the early 19th Racing Club, the last remaining century, the area has been home to Māori of Māori racing club in the country, is the Ngāti Raukawa iwi who had migrated from situated close to State Highway 1 the Kāwhia area from about 1819, under the and holds regular race meets. leadership of Rangatira (Chief) Te Rauparaha. They Ōtaki township is west of the supplanted the Rangitāne and Muaūpoko people. highway and includes many sites of historic interest including Rangiātea Monument to Te Rauparaha, Ōtaki township Photo credit: Mark Coote Church, Raukawa marae, the 1940s Art Deco civic theatre, Ōtaki At the request of Te Rauparaha, In the 1890s, the area became several historic buildings including Museum housed in what was the missionaries Henry Williams and popular with Chinese market a marae dedicated to Hine Nui ote Bank of New Zealand built in 1918, visited the area gardeners. Their contribution over Ao Katoa – Mary, great woman of Haruatai playground and swimming and Hadfield opened the first many years to Ōtaki is honoured the whole world, woman of light; pool and Māori tertiary education mission in the with some of the street names in and Presbytery built in 1897. centre Te Wānanga o Raukawa. at the Rangiātea Church, the the area being bilingual – English Ōtaki is made up of three distinctly original of which was completed in and Cantonese. Haruatai Park contains Ōtaki's different areas – around State 1851. Burnt down in 1995, it was recently renovated Swimming Pool The oldest Catholic Church still Highway 1 and the railway station, completely rebuilt by 2003 and is and a new Splashpad. A new pump in use in New Zealand, St Mary’s, Ōtaki township and Ōtaki Beach. the oldest Māori Anglican Church track has just opened in the park. is situated in a little settlement site in New Zealand. The design of There are speciality shops along close to Ōtaki. This beautiful Ngā Purapura, which is opposite the church is unique, combining State Highway 1 which are popular wooden church has an image of the main Te Wānanga o Raukawa ideas from English and Māori Kāpiti Island behind the altar and church design.

Ōtaki Māori Racing Club Photo credit: Ōtaki Māori Racing Club Biking along Ōtaki river Photo credit: Mark Coote

24 25 Several tramping tracks head Ōtaki Forks is also the base for into the Tararua Forest Park rafting down the river with from Ōtaki Forks including the Captivate Adventures including Southern Crossing, a three day a unique night raft guided by tramping track recommended for glow worms. For land lovers, they experienced trampers only. The also offer climbing and abseiling crossing of the alpine tops section adventures and a challenge from Table Top to Mount Alpha ropes course. various venues around the town. (1361m) involves about 6-8 hours Celebrating indigenous voices of travel, with superb views to and storytelling in film, Māoriland the south of Wellington Harbour, presents a selection of the most the Marlborough Sounds and the distinctive indigenous works from Kaikoura Mountains. around the globe. It has unique screening venues including Raukawa Marae, Rangiātea Church Lookout at Ōtaki Estuary Photo credit: and the Civic Theatre. Mark Coote You can hire a bike or tandem from Kāpiti Cycles in Riverbank campus in Tasman Road, offers Road and enjoy an easy cycle ride fitness classes and a gym open to along the river to the estuary all at $10 for a casual visit. It also and lookout. has a café open 7.30am – 3pm Monday to Friday. Ōtaki has some great easy walks for the whole family, including Finally there is the beach area Chrystalls Bend Walkway with Byron’s Holiday Resort accessed from State Highway 1, and beachside pavilion housing Rafting down Ōtaki River Photo credit: Captivate Adventures just north of the bridge. Chrystalls the Surf Life Saving Club and the Lagoon is very picturesque Epic Surf School. The estuary is a surrounded by native bush. popular spot for fishing and is one ŌTAKI of the easiest places for children to The surrounding areas around ŌTAKI catch their first fish. Ōtaki include Te Horo with a BEACH MARINE PARADE monthly craft and produce market, The beach is the venue for the 2 beautiful lavender farm and Ruth annual Ōtaki Kite Festival. TASMAN RD 1 Pretty’s Cookery School where International kite makers and flyers you can get a coffee and slice of come to this popular event which 1 cake (open every day) and browse TE RAUPARAHA ST features kite fighting, music, stalls RANGIURU RD4 the extensive kitchen shop. Just a RANGIURU RD MILL RD and hundreds of kites on display. RIVERBANK RD 3 short distance from Ōtaki on State

Ōtaki is home to the annual Highway 1 is Loco Miniature WAERENGA RD Māoriland Film festival held in Railway and landscaped gardens. Otaki River 5 RAHUI RD 6 1 Loco Miniature 7 Railway (summer only) 2 Surf School 3 Swimming Pool & Haruatai Park 4 Skatepark ADDINGTON RD 5 Cycle Hire Otaki River OTAKI GORGE RD 6 Outlet Shops TARARUA 7 Ōtaki Māori Racecourse FOREST PARK Shops

Train Station TE RD Playground

Toilets OTAKI GORGE RD 1 OLD HAUTERE RD

TE HORO BEACH RD LAVENDER FARM & Loco Miniature Railway and Gardens TE HORO RUTH PRETTY COOKERY SCHOOL

26 27 EXPLORE OUR EXPLORE OUR RICH HISTORY RICH HISTORY

Before 1822, the Muaūpoko iwi lived on the rich marine, coastal, wetland and forest resources of the Kāpiti Coast and southern North Island. Whare at St Mary’s Church Photo credit: Mark Coote The iwi were so named because they lived at the ūpoko (head) of Te Ika-a-Māui – the fish of Māui. In the 1830s, Kāpiti Island was one During World War II, three In the early 1820s, Te Rauparaha, a chief of Ngāti of the largest whaling stations in camps housing up to 15,000 US Toa, led his people on a great migration south New Zealand run by Europeans Marines were set up at Mackay’s with up to 2,000 people living and Crossing in Queen Elizabeth from Kāwhia, using muskets to defeat traditionally working on the island. Try pots Park, Paekākāriki and Whareroa armed local tribes. When the Muaūpoko tried which were used for boiling down Farm. There is a memorial to the to assassinate Te Rauparaha, he took terrible blubber lie abandoned on the Marines in the park and an annual revenge on them and established Kāpiti Island as shores of the island as a reminder commemoration held. of this short-lived industry. his fortress. Heritage trail brochures are In 1839 Reverend Octavius available from the i-SITE and Hadfield set up a mission station libraries in the district. at Kenakena Pā near the Waikanae Sometimes called the 'Napoleon river mouth and Christianity, of the Southern Hemisphere', Te literacy and farming spread Rauparaha ruled the lower end of rapidly among Māori of the region. the North Island from his island Hadfield built Anglican churches stronghold. at Waikanae and Ōtaki. A Roman Catholic mission was set up at Te Rauparaha’s allies settled on Ōtaki in 1844 and the oldest the mainland: Ngāti Raukawa of Catholic Church still in use in New Waikato moved to areas of the Zealand, St Mary's, was built there Manawatū and Horowhenua in 1859. while Te Āti Awa occupied several locations around the Kāpiti Coast before finally settling in what is now Waikanae. Sketch of Te Rauparaha in 1847 by William Bambridge Alexander Turnbull Library reference: QMS-0122-140A

View looking down over buildings of Jillett’s whaling station spread out along the US Marines line up with their mess gear at Camp McKay or Mackay, near Waiorua beach at Kāpiti Island. Bowring, Walter Armiger 1874-1931 [Jillett’s whaling Paekākāriki, 15 September 1943 Photo credit Alexander Turnbull Library Reference: station on Kāpiti Island, 1844] F 8226 71/2 Photographer: John Pascoe

28 29 MUSEUMS STEAM INCORPORATED at Paekākāriki MUSEUMS Railway enthusiasts rebuild and maintain heritage railway equipment as they were in the 1950s and 1960s. Mainly open on Thursdays and Saturdays and running steam train excursions in the North Island throughout the year.

The rich history and culture of Kāpiti can be explored at any of the seven museums in the area.

SOUTHWARD CAR MUSEUM Housing some of the world’s rarest and most valuable vehicles, Southward is considered the premier privately owned automotive collection in the southern hemisphere. Open daily 9am – 4.30pm. Steam train leaving the station at Steam Incorporated Paekākāriki

ŌTAKI MUSEUM Small local museum showing the town’s rich history through photos, newspapers and exhibits. Open Thursday to Saturday 10am – 2pm during exhibits.

One of the many cars at Southward Car Museum Photo credit: Mark Coote

MUSEUM OF AVIATION at Kapiti Landing This small museum traces the development of aviation in New Zealand mainly through photographs and models. Open Sundays 10am - 4pm.

TRAMWAY MUSEUM at Paekākāriki Ōtaki Museum Photo credit Mark Coote Take a trip through Queen Elizabeth Park in an original tram from Wellington and explore the display including a film showing the tram used KĀPITI COAST MUSEUM in Waikanae in the movie King Kong. Open weekends 11am – 3pm. Home to extensive displays of everyday life from the pioneering era, in the old Waikanae Post Office. Open weekends 2pm – 4pm.

MAHARA GALLERY in Waikanae The district’s public art gallery has at least six different exhibitions a year in a wide range of media reflecting contemporary arts and cultural heritage-based projects. Open Tuesday – Saturday 10am – 4pm and Sunday 1pm – 4pm.

Trams at the Tramway Museum Paekākāriki

PAEKĀKĀRIKI STATION MUSEUM Constructed in 1910, the railway station was once so busy a nearby 17 room hostel was built just for the girls serving teas. Now the museum has railway memorabilia displayed in the old refreshment rooms. Open weekends 11am – 3pm. Mahara Gallery Waikanae

30 31 COME TO GO UP THINGS TO DO THE BEACH RIVER

Whether it is making sandcastles, dens out of Ōtaki River runs from the mighty fish. You will need a licence which driftwood, horse riding, surf casting, sailing, Tararua Ranges through Ōtaki can be obtained from Hunting and Forks where there is a Department Fishing in Ōtaki or online from Fish surfing or just watching the waves, with our40km of Conservation camp ground with & Game New Zealand. of sandy beaches you will be spoilt for choice. basic amenities, a legendary swing There are safe swimming beaches at Paekākāriki, bridge across the river, beautiful picnic spots and gateway to some Raumati, Paraparaumu, and Waikanae. of the best tramps in the North Surf Lifesaving Clubs patrol Ōtaki and Paekākāriki Island, to the sea. beaches in the summer. Waikanae River, accessed through Otaihanga Domain, is a popular spot for walking, kayaking You can try out landsailing on Waikanae Beach or surfing at Ōtaki Beach. and floating down to the estuary on Kayaking is great fun from any of the beaches. Dive Kāpiti, on Milne tubes. Fly fishing for brown trout Drive (off Kāpiti Road) hires out snorkeling and diving gear. A sunset horse on Ōtaki river is possible all year ride on the beach is unforgettable. Stables on the Park at the Te Horo round and Waikanae river from 1 October to 30 April. Both are Fly fishing on the Ōtaki River Equestrian Centre offers horseriding treks to the beach, andBeachbrook Photo credit: Mark Coote Stables can take you for a ride on Ōtaki Beach. Horse riding is also beautiful rivers which are easy to available at the Kāpiti Equestrian Centre in Waikanae. HAVE A GO

Riding on the beach is a beautiful way Driftwood dens appear up and down to end the day the coast all year Learning to surf on Ōtaki Beach Photo credit: Epic Surf School

If you like to be active, there are recognised links course at lots of options for adventure in Paraparaumu Beach Golf Club, Kāpiti. You could horse ride on a challenging nine holes in the the beach, learn to surf on Ōtaki valley at Kāpiti Golf Club, and Beach, try land sailing in Waikanae, beautiful courses in Waikanae and kayak down the Ōtaki river at night Ōtaki. We also have a modern ten guided by the light of glow worms pin bowling centre with mini golf. with Captivate Adventures, or See the Activities section for details bike through Queen Elizabeth of who to contact to arrange your Park, fly a plane with theKāpiti adventure, or come in to the i-SITE Aero Club or enjoy a game of and we will book everything for you. golf at one of the four clubs in Kayaking from Paraparaumu Beach Photo credit: Mark Coote the area including internationally

32 33 THINGS TO DO The Waikanae river and estuary is a tidal home and airport to a variety of ON TWO WHEELS waders and sea birds. More than 60 species of birds breed there, including banded dotterel, dabchick, royal spoonbill and variable oystercatcher. OR TWO LEGS Kāpiti Bird Tours run regular guided walks around the estuary. Ngā Manu Nature Reserve in Waikanae contains the largest single remaining remnant of original coastal lowland swamp forest on the Kāpiti Coast and attracts native birds and geckos. Visitors enjoy eel feeding and Kāpiti has a great network of easy, family-friendly meeting the kaka and tuatara. cycleways and walkways, as well as challenging mountain bike trails.

The spectacular Paekākāriki Coastal Escarpment Trail featuring the popular ‘Stairway to Heaven’ is part of the Te Araroa walking trail – a 3000km route stretching from Cape Reinga in the North to Bluff in the South. The Te Ara o Whareroa cycle path through Queen Elizabeth Park is very popular with cyclists of all ages. Every part of the district has cycleways and walkways showcasing the magnificent natural beauty of the Kāpiti Coast, with over 100 kms of trails, there is something for every level of fitness. Bikes can be hired from several companies across Kāpiti, including electric bikes. See activity directory at the back for details. Pick up Tieke or Saddlebacks on Kāpiti Island Morepork a map of the walking, cycling or bridleway trails at the iSITE. Photo credit: Kāpiti Island Nature Tours Photo credit: Ngā Manu Nature Reserve TASTE KĀPITI

The warm climate and fertile soils to upmarket restaurants. Being help make Kāpiti a great place to so close to the sea, of course grow produce and we are proud we also have awesome fish and of our many artisan food and drink chips. Open every day Penray producers. Kāpiti products include Gardens on State Highway 1 in olive oil, fruit ice cream, cordials, Te Horo offer pick your own fruit Tararua Forest Park There are great cycle paths around Photo credit: Gavin Marshall Kāpiti to suit all Photo credit: Mark Coote artisan breads, cheeses, ice cream, and veggies including a huge coffee, limoncello, chocolate, range of chillis. Nearby Windsor candies, brandy and fruit liqueurs, Park specialises in berries and pies, Kāpiti line caught smoked plums and is open weekends in GET CLOSER tuna, Waikanae crab, wine, organic December and January. juices and cider vinegar. Local supermarkets and some of the TO NATURE cafes and restaurants serve Kāpiti food and drink. You can also sample them at the various markets.

Kāpiti is home to a number of special nature reserves and conservation There are three boutique breweries areas, including Kāpiti Island. New Zealand’s oldest nature reserve, the in Kāpiti producing exceptional island is home to some of our rarest and most endangered birds which craft beers Tuatara, North End you can see in their natural habitat. Brewery and Duncan's. There is You can stay overnight in Waiorua Bay and enjoy local hospitality and a a factory shop at Fonterra with the guided kiwi spotting adventure after dark. Over 60 species of birds can be famous Kāpiti Cheeses at Te Roto seen on the island including rare takahē, kaka and kereru. There are two Drive, Paraparaumu open Monday operators who can organise your DoC permit and ferry crossing to the to Friday 10am – 3pm (when the island, Kāpiti Island Nature Tours and Kāpiti Eco Tours. Both offer sign is out on the pavement). guided walks and have very knowledgeable guides who can tell you all There are a wide variety of eating Chilli picking at Penray Gardens Photo credit: Mark Coote about the rich history of the island and the birdlife. out options too, from quality cafés

34 35 PLAY THINGS TO DO

Visit one of the 48 playgrounds in Kāpiti including Marine Gardens in Raumati with its splashpad water park and miniature railway (weekends). Maclean Park playground and skate park in Paraparaumu Beach features a lighthouse, life sized motor boat and trailer. Teach the little ones the Road Code at our mini road layout complete with traffic signs in Ōtaki. Haruatai Park in Ōtaki also has a Splashpad and a new pump track. There are swimming pools in Paraparaumu and Ōtaki and an open air Artel Gallery and Store, Waikanae Artscape Art Collective, Ōtaki summer pool in Waikanae. KĀPITI IN THE MOVIES

Kāpiti has been used as the location for films including Lord of the Rings, King Kong and the New Zealand film Second Hand Wedding which was filmed entirely in Kāpiti, written and produced by Kāpiti creatives. Trying out the road layout at Ōtaki Kāpiti has playgrounds to suit all ages Skate Park Photo credit: Mark Coote Photo credit: Mark Coote Art house films can be enjoyed at the 24 seat theatreFinn’s in Paekākāriki, two luxury theatres at the Shoreline, Waikanae and Gold Lounge at Event Cinemas at Coastlands, Paraparaumu. The unique Māoriland Film ENJOY THE Festival is held in Ōtaki annually in March showing over 100 films. ARTS SHOP ‘TIL YOU DROP The beautiful landscape attracts In Paekākāriki, upstairs in the artists of all kinds to live and create Holtom Building, a number of artists in Kāpiti. You can see their work share the space and exhibit their One of the first shopping malls to Ōtaki is known for its outlet and during the annual Kāpiti Arts work including Alan Wehipeihana open in New Zealand, Coastlands, speciality shops along State Trail 27/28 October and who has the main space exhibiting is situated in the centre of Highway 1. There are monthly 3/4 November or by visiting artists and working on his unique furniture Paraparaumu with over 80 shops. markets of crafts and produce in in their studios. Pick up a Kāpiti made from old books, painting and Paekākāriki and Te Horo, a weekly Arts brochure for listings. Artists other works in wood. Margaret Road in Raumati village Sunday market in summer in Ōtaki include contemporary oil painter has speciality, fashion and home Paraparaumu Beach has two and a weekly market in Waikanae Shona Moller, glass and bronze design shops. You can buy fashion galleries, internationally acclaimed Park on Saturday mornings. artist Graeme Hitchcock and labels here that you can’t buy oil artist Shona Moller’s beach front sculptor Bodhi Vincent. Exhibitions anywhere else in New Zealand. studio and gallery and Basement are held regularly in Paraparaumu You can also do a furniture Art Works Gallery in Seaview Road. Library, Waikanae Mahara Gallery upcycling course at Fenwick and Ngā Purapura in Ōtaki. In Ōtaki State Highway 1, Interiors or a French Patisserie Artspace Art Collective in the class at L’amour en Cage Deli. The district gallery, Mahara is old Courthouse, has regular guest situated in Waikanae town centre Paraparaumu Beach has a variety artists and sells a range of arts and has regular exhibitions and of small shops and a busy Saturday and crafts. events. Close to Mahara Gallery is market. Waikanae has a compact Artel Gallery and shop which only shopping centre with a variety of sells New Zealand made arts and shops including home interiors, Boutique shopping in Raumati village crafts, predominently Kāpiti made. clothing and crafts.

36 37 INDULGE THOSE INDULGE THOSE GREEN FINGERS GREEN FINGERS

The Kāpiti Coast has a temperate climate and great soil making it perfect for growing and it is not surprising that we have some of the most beautiful gardens in the Wellington Region.

Trinity Farm Gardens

We also have some specialist commercially for over 45 years and Nursery in Waikanae offers a Just outside Ōtaki, Loco Miniature nurseries and growers offering have a wide variety of them for huge range of ornamental, native Railway has two acres of beautiful a range of plants. Trinity Farm sale, as well as trees, shrubs and and perennial plant varieties which gardens where you can also get Gardens in Ōtaki specialises in grasses. Talisman Native Plant they grow from cuttings or seed. a woodfired pizza on Sundays heritage, spray-free roses and Nursery, also in Ōtaki, is one of Hyde Park Garden Centre in to enjoy in the gardens. The has a beautiful three acre garden the only plant nurseries in the Te Horo has some hard to find owners of Long Beach Tavern in with rose arbours, English-style lower North Island that specialises plant varieties and also has a café Waikanae Beach wanted to provide box hedges, walkways, pond and in New Zealand native plants. and small retail complex. Canna the freshest possible produce so a pottage garden. The garden The nursery has an established fans will be spoilt for choice at a bought a patch of land behind is open from October to March, arboretum with over 1000 New little specialist nursery just outside their restaurant and grow their Wednesday to Saturday 10am to Zealand native trees and shrubs Waikanae heading north on State own. It is a cute, productive veggie 4pm. Because all the roses are and exhibit gardens that are open Highway 1. Look out for a sign garden which visitors are welcome spray-free, the petals are perfect to the public Tuesday – Thursday simply saying Cannas. If the sign is to browse, and shows you how to for using in cooking and teas. Rose 1-4pm and Friday – Saturday out, they are open. make the best of beach gardening. petal dark chocolate is divine. 10am-4pm. As well as Trinity Farm Gardens, If you love trees, the Woodland South Pacific Roses, also in Ōtaki Harrisons Gardenworld in the gardens at Springfield, Garden in Old Hautere Road, sells over 390 varieties of roses, Peka Peka grow most of the trees Ruth Pretty’s home and cookery Ōtaki is a great place to visit. Open so if you are after a particular and shrubs they sell in their own school are worth a visit. Close by, by appointment, you can enjoy colour and style of modern rose nursery. The garden centre sells Lavender Creek Farm is home wandering in the four acres of varieties, South Pacific Roses are everything you might need for your to 7,000 lavender plants with woodland with Totara and Maples. likely to have it. They are closed on garden including garden décor and 330 different types of lavender. Telephone 06 364 2414. Sundays. water features. They also have a The lavender oil which they make popular café on site and music in themselves at the farm has won Watson’s Garden in Ōtaki their café garden on Sundays in 30 awards. The lavender is in full have been growing vegetables the summer months. Gus Evans flower mid-summer to mid-January.

Trinity Farm Gardens Lavender Creek Farm, Te Horo

38 39 I-SITE & STAY IN K Ā i-SITE 'STAIRWAY TO HEAVEN' TE ARAROA TRAIL INFORMATION PITI

Our information centre is located at Paraparaumu, just off the main road at the entrance to Coastlands Mall, co-located with Mediterranean Foods. While you are in Kāpiti, come in and talk to our knowledgeable staff. We’ll make bookings for you and offer friendly advice on things to see and do in the area.

OPENING HOURS

DAYS TIMES

Monday to Friday 9am - 5pm

Saturday 10am - 4pm

Sunday 10am – 2pm

Public Holidays Closed

WAIKANAE COMMUNITY INFORMATION CENTRE

This is a community information centre providing information on local transport timetables, accommodation and events. It is in the Waikanae Library and is staffed by volunteers. There are no booking facilities available at this centre. Open Monday to Friday 10am–3pm and Saturday 10am–12pm. STAY IN KĀPITI

There is so much to see and do in Kāpiti and plenty of places to stay – holiday parks, motels, hotels, bed and breakfast and luxury accommodation – which are listed at the back of this guide.

The i-SITE can find the perfect solution for you or check out the many online review sites including TripAdvisor, Booking.com, AA Traveller and Wotif. There are also lots of holiday homes and baches available for longer stays listed through Airbnb, Bachcare, Book a Bach, Holiday Houses and GLAMPING KĀPITI ISLAND NZ Holiday Homes.

40 41 GETTING HERE GETTING KĀPITI HERE

ŌTAKI BEACH

FLIGHTS ŌTAKI fly daily to Paraparaumu from Auckland Air 2 There fly to Paraparaumu from Nelson and Blenheim Sounds Air fly to Paraparaumu from Blenheim and Nelson

CAR HIRE AND DRIVING TE HORO BEACH There are two hire companies within easy reach of Kāpiti Coast Airport TE HORO – Rent Me Rentals and Can Do Rentals.

DRIVING TIMES TIME TO PARAPARUMU 1 Auckland to Paraparaumu 7 hours 20 minutes PEKA PEKA

Wellington to Paraparaumu via 45 minutes KĀPITI ISLAND Expressway

Taupō to Paraparaumu 3 hours 30 minutes EXPRESSWAY WAIKANAE BEACH Gisborne to Paraparaumu 5 hours 40 minutes WAIKANAE Napier to Paraparaumu 3 hours

New Plymouth to Paraparaumu 3 hours 30 minutes PARAPARAUMU BEACH

TRAINS AIRPORT Metlink trains to Paekākāriki, Paraparaumu and Waikanae regularly throughout the day from Wellington.

RAUMATI BEACH EXPRESSWAY Weekday daily service to Ōtaki with the . PARAPARAUMU The travels through the Kāpiti Coast from Auckland to Wellington on Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays and from RAUMATI SOUTH Wellington to Auckland on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays. You need to book in advance to ensure the train stops at Paraparaumu Station.

BUSES AND COACHES NORTH Intercity coaches have services to ISLAND Paraparaumu. 1 Metlink run regular bus services AUCKLAND PAEKĀKĀRIKI throughout Kāpiti.

TAUPŌ Uzabus will run bus services in GISBORNE Kāpiti from mid 2018. NEW PLYMOUTH NAPIER

KĀPITI 0 5 10km WELLINGTON

42 43 FREEDOM CAMPING FREEDOM FREEDOM CAMPING CAMPING PARKING

ŌTAKI BEACH There are nine Kāpiti Coast District Council 1 designated sites. ŌTAKI

Non self-contained freedom campers can use the Department of Conservation facility at Ōtaki Forks which costs $5 per person. DoC passes are sold at the i-SITE. TE HORO BEACH FREEDOM CAMPING PARKING NO. LOCATION TE HORO & TIME RESTRICTIONS

Maximum parking for 6 freedom North Bank, Ōtaki camping vehicles at any one time. 1 River, Ōtaki Beach. Maximum 48 hour time limit for each vehicle. 1 PEKA PEKA Field Way, Waikanae Maximum parking for 2 freedom Beach - car park on camping vehicles at any one time. KĀPITI ISLAND 2 north side of Waimeha Maximum 24 hour time limit for Stream. each vehicle.

WAIKANAE BEACH 2 EXPRESSWAY Maximum parking for 2 freedom Waimea Road beach camping vehicles at any one time. car park, Waikanae 3 4 3 Maximum 24 hour time limit for WAIKANAE Beach. each vehicle. 5 Maximum parking for 2 freedom PARAPARAUMU Waikanae Park, Park camping vehicles at any one time. BEACH 4 Avenue, Waikanae. Maximum 24 hour time limit for each vehicle. 6

Waikanae River Maximum parking for 4 freedom 7 Mouth at the end of camping vehicles at any one time. 5 RAUMATI BEACH 8

Tutere Street, Waikanae Maximum 24 hour time limit for EXPRESSWAY PARAPARAUMU Beach. each vehicle. 9 Marine Parade, Maximum parking for 1 freedom RAUMATI SOUTH Paraparaumu Beach camping vehicle at any one time. 6 - car park opposite 54 Maximum 24 hour time limit for Marine Parade. each vehicle.

Marine Parade, Maximum parking for 2 freedom Paraparaumu Beach camping vehicles at any one time. 7 - car park opposite 62 Maximum 24 hour time limit for Marine Parade. each vehicle. 1 PAEKĀKĀRIKI Marine Parade, Maximum parking for 2 freedom Paraparaumu Beach camping vehicles at any one time. 8 - car park opposite 69 Maximum 24 hour time limit for Marine Parade. each vehicle.

Maximum parking for 3 freedom Garden Rd/Matatua camping vehicles at any one time. Rd car park, Raumati 9 Maximum 24 hour time limit for 0 5 10km Beach. each vehicle.

44 45 ACTIVITY DIRECTORY ACTIVITY TE ARAROA TRAIL DIRECTORY

BUSINESS NAME DESCRIPTION ADDRESS LOCATION PHONE WEBSITE

Artel Art gallery and shop 9 Mahara Place Waikanae 04 297 0937 http://www.artelgallery.net Artscape Gallery Arts and crafts Old Court House, SH1 Ōtaki 0274 350 408 www.artscape-gallery.com Adrenalin Kāpiti Coast Paintball 1/93 Main Road Otaihanga 0800 237362 www.adrenalinkapiticoast.co.nz Bike hire and 81 Renown Road Raumati 027 440 2388 www.adventurekapiti.co.nz Adventure Kāpiti mountain biking Avanti Plus Kāpiti Bike hire 5 Kodex Place Paraparaumu 04 297 2597 www.avantiplus.co.nz/kapiticoast

Awarua Hunt & Hot Hunting and clay bird 10 Ratadale Road Waikanae 04 293 3277 www.awaruahunts.com Shots Clay Target shooting Shooting https://www.facebook.com/ Art gallery 3 Seaview Road Paraparaumu Beach 04 904 9288 Basement Art Works basementartworks/ Beachbrook Stables Horse riding 98 Rangiuru Road Ōtaki Beach 0272 448 121 www.freewebs.com/gem74/ Bush craft, surviving 57 Parenga Road Ōtaki 06 364 3337 www.human.org.nz Bush Craft & Wild Living in the wild, wild food Rafting, high ropes Ōtaki Gorge Road Ōtaki 04 299 1595 www.captivate.net.nz Captivate Adventures and abseiling

Coastlands Aquatic Swimming pool 10 Brett Ambler Way Paraparaumu 04 296 4746 www.kapiticoastaquatics.co.nz Centre Dive Kāpiti Diving & snorkeling 27 Milne Drive Paraparaumu 04 297 0075 www.divekapiti.co.nz Duncan's Brewing Co Brewery 4b Sheffield Street Paraparaumu 0275 544 562 www.duncansbrewing.co.nz www.eventcinemas.co.nz/cinema/ Cinema Coastlands, State Highway 1 Paraparaumu 04 298 6174 Event Cinemas coastlands Finn's Cinema Cinema Finn's Hotel, 2 Beach Road Paekākāriki 04 292 8081 www.finnscinemapaekakariki.co.nz Gus Evans Nursery Plant nursery 12 Utauta Street Waikanae 04 293 2501 www.gusevans.co.nz Garden centre and 23 Peka Peka Road Waikanae 04 293 5437 www.harrisons.co.nz Harrison's Gardenworld café Garden centre, shops 1 Te Horo Beach Road Ōtaki 0274 427 669 Hyde Park Village and café Jenny's Journeys Guided walks Paraparaumu Beach 0273 580 073 www.jennysjourneys.co.nz Flying lessons and 25 Dakota Rd Paraparaumu Beach 04 902 6536 www.kapitiaeroclub.co.nz Kāpiti Aero Club trial flights Kāpiti Bird Tours Guided bird tours Waikanae Beach 04 905 1001 www.kapitibirdtours.co.nz Kāpiti Coast Museum Museum 9 Elizabeth St Waikanae 04 905 6313 www.kapiticoastmuseum.org.nz Kāpiti Cycles Bike hire Ōtaki 0297 745 644 www.kapiticycles.co.nz

Kāpiti Equestrian Horse riding 13b Nimmo Ave West Waikanae 04 902 6108 www.kapitiequestrian.com Centre Kāpiti Island Eco Tours of Kāpiti Island Kāpiti Boating Club Paraparaumu Beach 0800 443 779 www.kapitiislandeco.co.nz Kāpiti Golf Club Golf course 104 Valley Road Paraparaumu 04 298 6151 www.sporty.co.nz/kgc Kāpiti Heliworx Helicopter rides Kāpiti Airport Paraparaumu 0508 435 496 www.helicopterflightswellington.co.nz Tours of Kāpiti Island Kāpiti Island Nature Kāpiti Island Paraparaumu 0800 527484 www.kapitiisland.com Tours and overnight stays

46 47 ACTIVITY DIRECTORY BUSINESS NAME DESCRIPTION ADDRESS LOCATION PHONE WEBSITE

Miniature ride on Kāpiti Miniature Marine Gardens Raumati Beach 04 299 3399 www.kapitirail.org.nz Railway railway Kāpiti Ten Pin Ten pin bowling 1 Te Tupe Road Paraparaumu 04 298 3674 www.kapititenpin.co.nz Kitesurf NZ Academy Kitesurfing Paraparaumu 021 142 4323 www.ksnz.co.nz Landsailing Kāpiti Landsailing (Blokarts) Waikanae 04 293 4865 www.landsailingkapiti.co.nz Lavender Farm and oil 123 Settlement Road Te Horo 06 364 3682 www.lavendercreek.co.nz Lavender Creek Farm producer Miniature railway, Loco Miniature Railway gardens & State Highway 1 Ōtaki 06 364 6506 www.loco.co.nz & Garden petting zoo Mahara Gallery District art gallery 20 Mahara Place Waikanae 04 902 6242 www.maharagallery.org.nz www.nzmuseums.co.nz/ Museum 227 Kāpiti Road Paraparaumu 04 905 4847 Museum of Aviation account/3190

Ngā Manu Nature Nature Reserve 74 Ngā Manu Reserve Road Waikanae 04 293 4131 www.ngamanu.co.nz Reserve Ōtaki Golf Club Golf Club Old Coach Road Ōtaki 06 364 8260 www.otakigolfclub.co.nz Ōtaki Indoor Pool Swimming pool Haruatai Park, 200 Mill Road Ōtaki 06 364 5542 www.kapiticoast.govt.nz/otaki-pool Ōtaki Museum Museum 49 Main Street Ōtaki 06 364 6886 www.otakimuseum.co.nz Ōtaki Surf School Surf School Ōtaki Beach Ōtaki 027 787 3464 www.epicsurfschools.co.nz

Paekākāriki Station Museum Paekākāriki Railway Station Paekākāriki 04 905 8275 www.stationmuseum.co.nz Museum www.paraparaumubeachgolfclub. Paraparaumu Beach Golf club 376 Kāpiti Road Paraparaumu Beach 04 902 8200 Golf Club co.nz Pick your own fruit 1199 State Highway 1 Te Horo 06 364 5302 www.facebook.com/Penray-Gardens Penray Gardens and veggies

Reikorangi Potteries Pottery, farm & cafe 27 Ngatiawa Road Waikanae 04 293 5146 www.reikorangi.com Park and Cafe Cookery school, Ruth Pretty Cookery kitchen shop, 41 School Road Te Horo 06 364 3161 www.ruthpretty.co.nz School gardens & cafe

Shoreline Cinema Cinema 10 Mahara Place Waikanae 04 902 8070 www.shorelinecinema.co.nz Waikanae Southward Car Museum Museum Otaihanga Road Paraparaumu 04 297 1221 www.southwardcarmuseum.co.nz Specialist rose State Highway 1 Ōtaki 06 364 8797 www.southpacificroses.co.nz South Pacific Roses nursery Stables on the Park Horse riding Te Horo Equestrian Centre Te Horo 06 364 3336 www.stablesonthepark.co.nz Talisman Nursery Native plant nursery 135 Ringawhati Road Ōtaki 021 0246 4474 www.talismanplants.weebly.com

The Engine Shed - Steam train workshop State Highway 1 Paekākāriki 0800 783 264 www.steaminc.org.nz Steam Incorporated Garden and heritage Trinity Farm Garden 202 Valley Road Ōtaki 0800 955 555 www.trinityfarm.co.nz and Nursery rose nursery Brewery with tasting Tuatara Brewing 7 Sheffield Street Paraparaumu 0508 882 8272 www.tuatarabrewing.co.nz Company Ltd room Waikanae Golf Club Golf club 97 Te Moana Road Waikanae 04 293 6399 www.waikanaegolfclub.co.nz www.kapiticoast.govt.nz/ Swimming pool 52 Ngarara Road Waikanae 04 296 4789 Waikanae Outdoor Pool waikanae-pool Garden centre and 17 Bell Street Ōtaki 06 364 8758 www.watsonsgarden.co.nz Watson's Garden nursery

Wellington Tramway Museum Queen Elizabeth Park Paraparaumu 04 292 8361 www.wellingtontrams.org.nz Museum Inc www.facebook.com/Windsor-Park- Pick your own fruit 961 State Highway 1 Te Horo 06 364 3163 Windsor Park Orchard-488175871237161 Woodland Garden Garden 149 Old Hautere Road Te Horo 06 364 2414 (open by appointment)

48 49 ACCOMMODATION ACCOMMODATION DIRECTORY DIRECTORY

WAIKANAE BEACH

MOTELS & HOTELS ADDRESS LOCATION PHONE WEBSITE

Ariki Lodge Motel 4 Omahi Street Waikanae 0800 800 578 www.arikilodgemotel.co.nz Asure Kāpiti Court Motel 341 Kāpiti Road Paraparaumu Beach 0800 526 683 www.kapiticourtmotel.co.nz Byrons Resort 20 Tasman Road Ōtaki Beach 0800 800 122 www.byronsresort.co.nz Copperfield Seaside Motel 7/13 Seaview Road Paraparaumu Beach 0800 666 414 www.seasidemotel.co.nz 06 364 6228 Cottage Park Motor Lodge 272 Main Road, SH 1 Ōtaki 0800 126 882 www.cottageparkmotorlodge.co.nz Elliotts Motor Lodge 33 Amohia Street Paraparaumu 0800 936 070 www.elliottsmotorlodge.co.nz Finns Paekākāriki 2 Beach Road Paekākāriki 04 292 8081 www.finnshotel.co.nz Kāpiti Gateway Motel 114 Main Road Waikanae 0800 429 360 www.kapitigateway.co.nz

Kāpiti Lindale Motel & 3-7 Ventnor Drive Paraparaumu North 04 298 7933 www.kapitimotel.com Conference Centre 0800 168 1628 Ocean Motel 42-44 Ocean Road Paraparaumu Beach 0508 668 357 www.oceanmotel.co.nz Ōtaki Motel 260 Main Highway Ōtaki 0800 662 243 www.otakimotel.co.nz Paraparaumu Motel 65 Amohia Street Paraparaumu 0800 74 6000 www.paraparaumu.co.nz Raumati Sands Resort 4-8 Matatua Road Raumati Beach 0800 941 733 www.raumatisands.co.nz Waikanae Beach Motel 95 Te Moana Rd Waikanae Beach 0800 486 533 www.kapitimotel.co.nz Wrights by the Sea Motel 387 Kāpiti Road Paraparaumu Beach 0508 902 7600 www.wrightsmotel.co.nz

BACKPACKERS

The Tele 284 Rangiuru Rd Ōtaki 06 364 0634 www.thetele.co.nz

HOLIDAY PARKS

El Rancho 58 Weggery Drive Waikanae Beach 04 902 6287 www.elrancho.co.nz Kāpiti Holiday Resort 16 Beach Haven Place Paraparaumu Beach 04 297 0529 www.kapitiholidayresort.co.nz Lindale Motor Park Ventnor Drive (SH1) Paraparaumu 04 298 8046 www.holidayparks.co.nz/lindale Paekākāriki Holiday Park 180 Wellington Road Paekākāriki 04 292 8292 www.paekakarikiholidaypark.co.nz

BED & BREAKFAST

Abbey Rose B & B 70 Te Moana Road Waikanae Beach 04 905 9729 www.abbeyrose.co.nz Ammara Lodge B & B 96 Arcus Road Te Horo 06 364 3357 www.ammara.co.nz ArtStay 37 Kensington Drive Peka Peka Beach 04 293 5956 www.artstay.co.nz Aston Rd Villa 38 Aston Road Waikanae 027 201 8904 www.astonroadvilla.co.nz Awatea Lodge 19 Hadfield Road Waikanae Beach 04 293 2404 www.awatealodge.co.nz Country Patch Villa 18 Kea Street Waikanae 04 293 5165 www.countrypatch.co.nz Greenolive Homestead 68 Ōtaki Gorge Road Te Horo 06 364 0664 www.greenolive.co.nz

50 51 ACCOMMODATION DIRECTORY BED & BREAKFAST ADDRESS LOCATION PHONE WEBSITE

Kameni Cottage 11 Te Waka Road Te Horo 021 577 091 www.kamenicottage.nz Konini Cottage 26 Konini Cres Waikanae Beach 04 904 6610 www.konini.co.nz Paekākāriki Beachfront B & B 136 The Parade Paekākāriki 04 905 8595 www.paekakarikibnb.co.nz RiverStone Garden Cottage 111 Ngatiawa Road Waikanae 04 293 1936 www.riverstone.co.nz Sea Haven B & B Homestay 325 Rosetta Rd Raumati Beach 04 902 0047 Seascape B & B Unit 8/1 Marine Parade Paraparaumu Beach 04 905 4543 www.seascapebnb.com Te Horo Farmstay 737 State Highway 1 Te Horo 0274 486 764 The Sand Pit 8 Ara Kuaka Waikanae Beach 04 905 5611 Top Floor B & B 3 Seaview Road Paraparaumu Beach 04 904 9288 www.topfloorkapiti.co.nz Tudor Manor B & B 10 Tudor Court Paraparaumu Beach 04 298 3436 www.tudormanor.co.nz

Waikanae Beach B & B 115 Tutere Street Waikanae Beach 0800 897 143 www.waikanaebeachbandb.co.nz

LUXURY

Atahuri 51 Pingao Lane Peka Peka Beach 04 293 5555 www.atahuri.co.nz www.sudbury.co.nz/ Cottage 103 103 Te Hapua Road Peka Peka 06 364 3064 accommodation

Greenmantle 214 Main Rd North Paraparaumu 04 298 5555 www.greenmantle.co.nz SoleMer Beach House 76 Paetawa Road Waikanae 04 293 7120 www.pekapekabeach.com Te Nikau Forest Retreat 1B Crescent Waikanae 021 0222 0217 www.tenikauforestretreat.co.nz The Milk Station 35 Rahui Rd Ōtaki 0274 810 667 www.themilkstation.co.nz Kefalonia 226 Te Moana Road Waikanae 04 293 4933 www.kefalonia.co.nz

RETREATS

Riverslea Retreat 733 Ōtaki Gorge Road Ōtaki 0276 860 303 www.riverslearetreat.co.nz Waihoanga River Lodge and Retreat 32 Waihoanga Road Ōtaki 06 364 3202 www.waihoanga.co.nz

NOTES

Disclaimer: The information in this guide was correct to the best of our knowledge at the time of printing.

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