School holiday fun in Kāpiti

School's out for summer! Looking for family-friendly fun these school holidays? Pack your sense of adventure and explore Kāpiti, where wildlife encounters, hands-on activities, and sun-soaked beach days await. Dive into our guide to discover the best ways to make summer memories with the whole whānau!

Get hands-on with nature at Ngā Manu

74 Ngā Manu Reserve Road, Waikanae
A natural wonderland for adventurers young and old, Ngā Manu Nature Reserve is the perfect place to connect with New Zealand's native flora and fauna. Spot longfin eels during daily feeding sessions, peek at the shy kiwi in the nocturnal house, and watch ancient tuatara bask in the sun. With hands-on experiences and plenty of space to explore, it's a fun, educational day out for the whole whānau.
Ngā Manu Nature Reserve

Hop over to 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 whisks 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 coastal views.
Kapiti Island

Putt your way to fun at Golf for Good

Mazengarb Rd, Paraparaumu
Ready for family showdowns? Golf for Good Mini Golf in Paraparaumu offers an 18-hole adventure designed to mimic a real putting green. Perfect for school holiday fun, it's packed with friendly rivalries, plenty of laughs, and a little healthy competition - all while supporting local charities. Mini golf with maximum fun (and heart!).
Golf for Good Mini Golf

Make a splash at Waikanae Pool

Waikanae Park Ngarara Rd, Waikanae
Zoom down the waterslide, splash around in the pool, or lounge on the sunny lawn between dips - Waikanae Pool is the ultimate spot for families to cool off on a sunny day. Pack a picnic, soak up the sun, and dive into a day full of fun, swimming, and summer memories.
Waikanae Pool

Hit the beach for some summer fun

With over 40km of stunning coastline, Kāpiti's beaches are the ultimate playground for school holiday fun. Splash in the waves, build sandcastles, play beach cricket, or simply soak up the sun, there's something for the whole whānau to enjoy.
Kāpiti Coast Beaches

Scoop up some summer sweetness

No summer school holiday adventure is complete without grabbing a scoop (or two!) of delicious, refreshing ice cream. From creamy gelato and classic Kiwi favourites to the iconic real fruit ice cream, Kāpiti's local spots are the perfect way to cool off and indulge after a day of exploring.
Get the scoop

Bounce into fun at Rebound Playland & Trampoline Park

7 Sheffield St, Paraparaumu
Rain or shine, Rebound Playland & Trampoline Park in Paraparaumu is the ultimate adventure for school holiday fun. Kids can climb, bounce, and explore vibrant multi-level play areas and trampoline zones. Hours of energy-burning excitement await!
Rebound Playland & Trampoline Park

Get creative at Toi Mahara

20 Mahara Place, Waikanae
Toi Mahara’s school holiday programme is packed with hands-on fun for kids of all ages. From drawing and collage to tissue paper posy making, there's plenty to get your young ones' creativity flowing. Afterwards, wander through the gallery to explore the current exhibitions on display.
Toi MAHARA

Get more inspiration

Plan your visit