School holiday fun in Kāpiti

Looking for family-friendly fun these school holidays? Kāpiti is packed with adventures - from getting up close with wildlife and exploring the great outdoors to hands-on activities and tasty treats. Dive into our guide to discover the best things to do with the whole whānau!

One ticket, endless fun

These school holidays, we’ve teamed up with Coastlands and some of our favourite Kāpiti attractions to bring you the Visit Kāpiti Limited Edition School Holiday Deal - a one-stop ticket packed with adventures kids will love. Available to purchase from Saturday 20 September at the Coastlands Customer Service Desk for just $36.

Get hands-on with nature at Ngā Manu

74 Ngā Manu Reserve Road, Waikanae
Ngā Manu's school holiday programme is brimming with family-friendly activities that spark a love for nature and sustainable living. Build cosy bug hotels, cook using the power of the sun, or enjoy a heartwarming puppet show - there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Visit Ngā Manu Nature Reserve

Discover Kapiti Island

Waiorua Bay, Kapiti Island
Make the school holidays unforgettable with a trip to one of Aotearoa’s most treasured nature reserves. A short boat ride takes you to predator-free Kapiti Island, where cheeky kākā, curious takahē, and lively tui fill the air with song. Families can explore bush-clad walking trails, learn about the island’s rich history, and soak up the sweeping views.
Discover Kapiti Island

Step back in time at Southward Car Museum

250 Otaihanga Road, Paraparaumu
Rev your engines for a trip through motoring history at Southward Car Museum. With over 400 vintage and classic cars on display, 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 alike.
Visit Southward Car Museum

Hit the trails

Burn off some energy and soak up Kāpiti's natural beauty with a family walk or bike ride. From coastal strolls to lush bush walks, there are trails to suit all ages and abilities. Family favourites include Queen Elizabeth Park, the Waikanae and Ōtaki River Trails, and many more hidden gems waiting to be explored.
Hit the trails

Treat the kids to some live entertainment

Te Raukura ki Kāpiti & Southward Car Museum
Cinderella is coming to Te Raukura ki Kāpiti these school holidays, and you’re invited to the ball! The Pantoloons bring their signature mix of laughs, music, mayhem to this sparkling twist on a classic fairy tale.
The Pantoloons Present: Cinderella

Indulge at the Kāpiti Chocolate Factory

5 Lorien Ct, Raumati Beach
Treat the kids (and yourself!) to a sweet experience at the Kāpiti Chocolate Factory. Book a chocolate demonstration and go behind the scenes, where you'll learn how these delicious creations are made and even get to sample them straight from the source. Bookings are essential, so be sure to secure your spot for this tasty school outing treat.
Indulge at the Kāpiti Chocolate Factory

School Holiday fun at Toi Mahara

20 Mahara Place, Waikanae
Toi Mahara’s school holiday programme is all about making art together. Bring your children or grandchildren along to get creative with actives ranging from drawing and collage to tissue paper flowers. Afterwards, wander through the gallery and explore one of the seven exhibitions on display.
School Holiday fun at Toi Mahara

Get more inspiration

Plan your visit