School holiday fun in Kāpiti

Cosy up this winter and sip your way around the Coast! The Kāpiti Hot Chocolate Competition is a two-week celebration of flavour, creativity and community — where local cafés put their own twist on the classic hot chocolate. Grab a Hot Choc Passport, collect stamps as you go, vote for your favourite creation, and be in to win amazing prizes.

A magical spot teeming with native wildlife and lush bush tracks, where cheeky kākā, slithery eels, and shy kiwi await. The kids will love exploring the nocturnal house, feeding the eels, and taking an educational journey high above the forest canopy to Piki’s Perch. It’s a wild and wonderful day out for budding nature lovers and little adventurers.

Rev your engines for a trip through time at Southward Car Museum, where over 500 vintage and classic cars tell the story of motoring history. See everything from a Back to the Future DeLorean to Mickey Cohen's 1950 “gangster special” Cadillac. It’s the ultimate pit stop for car lovers and curious minds.

A fun experience for all ages, join a guided farm tour at Cantharis Alpacas and meet these quickly creatures face-to-face. Walk, hand-feed, and take selfies with the alpacas - all while enjoying stunning views over the Kāpiti Coast. It’s a truly heartwarming experience that the whole family will love!

Bundle up and head to Maclean Park, just steps from Paraparaumu Beach. It’s packed with fun - from the marine-themed playground and scooter-friendly paths, to the newly upgraded skate park and basketball court.

Rain or shine, the Coastlands Aquatic Centre is the go-to spot for family water fun. With heated pools, a toddler splash area, and hydro slide, there’s something for all ages to enjoy. Plus, don’t miss 12-13 July when Waterworld brings its mega indoor waterpark for even more splash-tastic adventures!

Keep the cold out and the fun in at Starlight Arcade. From classics like Mortal Combat and Tekken Tag Tournament to alley rollers and pinball, this local arcade is packed with fun for all ages.

Catch family-friendly shows, Kitchen Chaos and The Home Inside at Te Raukura ki Kāpiti, or head to Southward Car Museum to see The Pantaloons Present: Red Riding Hood - a fun twist on a classic tale!