Five days of family fun in Kāpiti
Pack your sense of adventure and get ready for five days of family fun on the Kāpiti Coast. Just a short drive north of Wellington, this stretch of sun, sand, and seaside charm is made for making memories together. From vintage trams and alpaca cuddles to sandy beaches, ice creams and wildlife encounters, each town offers something new to discover - five days, five towns, endless family fun!
Day one: Seaside fun in Paekākāriki
Adventures await at Queen Elizabeth Park
The perfect spot for a picnic and a fun day out, Queen Elizabeth Park is packed with things to see and do. Cast a line at the beach, wander the wetlands in search of native birds, or stretch your legs on the parks many scenic trails. For a touch of nostalgia, step back in time at the Wellington Tramway Museum, and hop aboard a vintage tram for a ride to Whareroa Beach.
Queen Elizabeth Park
Scoop up some goodness
11 Beach Rd, Paekākāriki
No family visit to Kāpiti is complete without a scoop (or two!) of refreshing ice cream. Right in the heart of this charming seaside village, Paekākāriki Fruit Supply dishes up real fruit ice creams, creamy gelato, cold-pressed juices, and smoothies to-go. A perfect pit stop after a day of exploring.
Paekākāriki Fruit Supply
Your Kiwi camping adventure
180 Wellington Road Off, SH 1, Paekākāriki
For a quintessential Kiwi camping experience, pitch a tent or book a family cabin at Paekākāriki Holiday Park. With the beach and Queen Elizabeth Park right on your doorstep, adventure is never far away. The kids will love bouncing on the giant jumping pillow, clambering over the playground, or even going on a good old-fashioned eel hunt in the stream.
Paekākāriki Holiday Park
Day two: Play, splash & relax in Raumati
Fun in the sun by the sea
Garden Rd, Raumati Beach
Marine Gardens is a paradise for little explorers. Cool off at the splash pad in summer, ride the miniature railway on Sundays, or simply relax with a family picnic. Fire up one of the free BBQs or grab some fish and chips nearby for a relaxed, seaside lunch.
Marine Gardens
Dine at Boundary Tap & Kitchen
3 Raumati Rd, Raumati Beach
After a day of seaside fun, refuel at The Boundary Tap & Kitchen in Raumati Village. This laid-back, family-friendly gastropub has something for everyone - a kids' menu, bouncy castle, and plenty of room to unwind for the adults while the little ones play.
The Boundary Tap & Kitchen
Relax in style at Raumati Sands
4/8 Matatua Rd, Raumati Beach, Paraparaumu
Just a short stroll from the beach, shops, and cafes, Raumati Sands Resort is ideal for a family getaway. Enjoy fully equipped apartments, a heated pool, and hot tub - the perfect way to relax after a fun day in the sun. Sweeten your stay at Raumati Sands — mention VISITKAPITI when booking direct and you’ll be welcomed with complimentary Kāpiti chocolates or candies on arrival.
Add VISITKAPITI to your booking notes for sweet treats on arrival
Day three: Big adventures in Paraparaumu
Alpaca adventures await
105 Waterfall Rd, Paraparaumu
Kick off the day with a truly memorable experience walking with Alpacas. Guided tours offer the chance to hand-feed, walk and even cuddle these gentle creatures, all while soaking up panoramic views across the Kāpiti Coast. A heartwarming experience for kids and adults alike.
Walking with alpacas
A ride through automative history
Next, head to the legendary Southward Car Museum, one of the largest classic car collections in the Southern Hemisphere. With over 400 vintage vehicles, this world-class museum is packed with stories to discover. Step into motoring history for less — unlock $15 entry tickets to Southward Car Museum with code VISITKAPITI when booking online or at the door.
Use VISITKAPITI for $15 entry
Good times at Salty's
44 Seaview Rd, Paraparaumu Beach
Wrap up your day at Salty’s Diner, where retro fun meets American-style comfort food. Enjoy Detroit Deep Dish pizzas, chicken wings, and waffle fries while the kids play pinball or test their skills on the pool table - a fun way to end the day.
Salty's Diner
Day four: Waikanae wonders
Step into nature at Ngā Manu
Explore lush native bush and spot beautiful birdlife at Ngā Manu. Get up close with longfin eels during daily feeding sessions, spot the kiwi in the nocturnal house, and see tuatara. Get closer to nature at Ngā Manu — mention VISITKAPITI and receive complimentary duck food with your visit. Don’t miss the daily Native Bird Close Encounter at 11am, a favourite with locals and visitors alike.
Say VISITKAPITI for free duck food
Refuel at Hey Coastie
42 Tutere St, Waikanae Beach
When hunger strikes, head to Hey Coastie at Waikanae Beach - a relaxed family-friendly cafe that’s a firm favorite with locals. Alongside classic cafe favourites and a kids’ menu to keep little tummies happy, little ones will love playing on the mini Coastie coastguard boat and playhouse, while you sit back and enjoy the beachside vibe.
Hey Coastie
Day five: Fun in the sun in Ōtaki
Sun, sand & smiles
Spend your final day soaking up the sun at Ōtaki Beach. Located at the northern tip of the Kāpiti Coast, this authentic Kiwi coastal destination is known for its laid-back beach-bach vibe. Whether you're building sandcastles, catching a wave, or trying your luck with a line, Ōtaki Beach is the perfect place to round out your Kāpiti adventure.
Ōtaki Beach
Tasty treats at Kōwhai Eatery
174 Main Hwy, Ōtaki
Time to refuel? Head to Kōwhai Eatery where a warm welcome meets a cabinet full of irresistible treats. Alongside delicious brunch and lunch options, you'll find a wide range of refreshing cold drinks to choose from. With so many tempting choices, you won't know where to start, or stop!
Kōwhai Eatery
Rest easy at Littel Ōtaki
42 Dunstan St, Ōtaki
End your Kāpiti adventure with a stay at Littel Ōtaki. This boutique accommodation blends style and comfort, offering modern suites and apartments with easy access to the town and beach. It's a cosy and convenient way to finish your family escape.
Littel Ōtaki