Parata Track
Hemi Matenga Scenic ReserveThe popular, steep bush-walk, located in the Hemi Matenga Reserve in Waikanae, rewards your efforts with beautiful views out to Kapiti Island and Reikorangi Valley.
80m climb
-40m descent
143m highest point
Kohekohe Walk is suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels. Follow the signposted public path that loops between Tui Crescent and Kakariki Grove through one of the biggest remaining kohekohe forests in the country.
At 30 minutes for a return journey, this walk is short and sweet and is very popular with locals. It’s a peaceful path with abundant birdlife, and in early winter, the kohekohe trees produce small white flowers. The number of mature trees and a profusion of blooms make for a spectacular walk.
The trail starts in Hemi Matenga Memorial Park in Waikanae, at Tui Crescent or Kakariki Grove. On-street parking is available on Tui Crescent, near the water reservoir.
There are regular train services from Wellington to Waikanae. Timetables are available from the Metlink website.
Hemi Matenga Scenic ReserveThe popular, steep bush-walk, located in the Hemi Matenga Reserve in Waikanae, rewards your efforts with beautiful views out to Kapiti Island and Reikorangi Valley.
Hemi Matenga Scenic ReserveLocated in Hemi Matenga Scenic Reserve, the Te Au track climbs to 521m and offers panoramic views of the Waikanae Estuary and Kapiti Island.
Explore the trail through one of New Zealand’s most nationally-significant native habitats, where you can encounter more than 60 species of birds, along with freshwater and marine fish species.
A gentle stroll through native bush to Chrystalls Lagoon, with breathtaking views of the Tararua Range.
Listen to the waves lapping as you wander along the sandy shores of Waikanae Beach.
The original Greytown to Woodside railway line provides a beautiful and family-friendly walking path.
Coast 35 connects Paekākāriki and Ōtaki through an off-road shared trail that runs parallel with the Kāpiti Expressway.
Follow the banks of the Ōtaki River on this popular walking and mountain biking trail, offering views of the coastline, river, and the Tararua Range.
Take in spectacular views of Kapiti Island from high above the Kāpiti Coastline.
Tunnel GullyAn easy loop that takes in native forests, waterfalls, and historic Remutaka railway sites.
Queen Elizabeth ParkWalk or cycle this wide, mostly flat trail along Kāpiti Coast’s dunelands, from Raumati to Paekākāriki.
Walk or ride the banks of Waikanae River from State Highway 1 to the sea.
Whareroa Farm Recreation ReserveTake a short, gentle wander through remnant kohekohe forest and soak up views over Queen Elizabeth Park and Kapiti Island.
Kaitoke Regional ParkCross an exhilarating swing bridge and take in stunning views of the Hutt River gorge.
Kaitoke Regional ParkEnjoy this family-friendly trail linking Kaitoke Regional Park to Pākuratahi Forks.