Destination guides > Pacific Islands > New Zealand > Wellington Region > Kapiti Coast

Kapiti Coast

The Kapiti Coast starts around a 40-minute drive northwest of Wellington and stretches from Paekakiriki to Otaki. It’s a region of smaller towns and beaches, easily accessible from Wellington by car or train.

Kapiti Island lies 5km offshore and is a nature reserve for rare and endangered bird species. A permit from the Department of Conservation is required which can be purchased online (website www.doc.govt.nz) or at the Wellington DOC office (18 Manners Street, Wellington). Ferry service to the island runs from Paraparaumu. Visitors are restricted to a maximum of 50 per day,

The Kapiti Coast is a popular daytrip from Wellington, but it can be a pleasant stopover to/from the capital city as well.

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