Paraparaumu
As the main town on the Kapiti Coast, Paraparaumu has plenty of everything for travellers. The shopping centre has more than 50 stores, as well as banks, supermarkets and cinemas. North of the town is a farm park where you’ll find farm shows and gourmet food producers (cheese, olives, honey, ice cream and other treats) while Paraparaumu Beach is the launching spot for trips to Kapiti Island, a nature reserve hosting some of New Zealand's most endangered birds. Experience scenic flights and glider rides and if you love old vehicles, the local car museum has one of the largest collections in Australasia.
Kapiti Island Day Tour
Your day trip to Kapiti Island begins at Paraparaumu where you'll catch the short ferry ride over to Waiorua Bay at the northern end of Kapiti Island. On arrival you'll be welcomed to the island and your experienced nature guide will introduce you to the natural and human history of the island. You'll discover for yourself the remarkable bird life that exists on this predator free island when you're guided on a 1 hour nature walk. A delicious cooked lunch is also provided at the lodge on the island.
Kapiti Island Nature Tours - Overnight Kiwi Spotting Tour
Seeing Kiwi in their natural habitat is an unforgettable experience. Kapiti Island is home to over 1,200 Little Spotted Kiwi, making it the most prolific population of Little Spotted Kiwi to be found, and one of the most reliable opportunities to see them in the wild.
Spend the night and enjoy the hospitality and delicious meals, surrounded by stunning native bush and some of New Zealands most rare and beautiful native birds.
Please understand that Little Spotted Kiwi on Kapiti Island are not in captivity. And their behaviour or sightings on any given night can not be guaranteed.
Kapiti Island Eco Experience
Experience how New Zealand must have been over 100 years ago. En route to Kapiti Island, pass through the Kapiti Marine Reserve and watch for passing whales and dolphins. Lookout for the sea birds that frequent the coastal waters - gulls, gannets, penguins, terns, shags, shearwaters and albatross.
In the visitor shelter your guide will talk about the birds you are likely to see and share the status of the endangered species and new arrivals. Your guide will explain the walking options; whether you are walking to the summit (521 metres) or are meandering on the lowland tracks and what you will likely see. You can walk Kapiti Island and watch the birds at your own pace or just relax for a wonderful day.
Kapiti island is home to some of New Zealand's favourite birds such as the cheeky weka - the rascal of the bush, look out they would love to steal your lunch, that's if Mr Kaka our beautiful parrot has not already pinched it. You will also find Hihi, Korimako, Kakariki, Kereru the pigeon, Piwakawaka, Kokako, Takahae Tieke, plus many more.
Kapiti Island Eco Experience core values are that of a sustainable eco friendly business. The aim to promote sustainability, the environment and showcase the best that Kapiti Island and the Kapiti Island Marine Sanctuary has to offer.
