One of the more popular tracks within the Kāpiti region, the Waikanae River Trail offers something for walkers, runners, horse riders, or bikers. There are also plenty of safe and shallow swimming areas if you want a dip to cool off.
Following the river from Otaihanga to Waikanae, it’s an easy track that can be completed in small sections or all together. If you choose to walk the full 9km loop, it takes about 2.5 hours to complete.
Covering 30 hectares of native forest, Hemi Matenga Scenic Reserve is one of the largest remaining areas of kohekohe forest in New Zealand. Forming part of an ecosystem network that links Kapiti Island with the Tararua Range, the reserve offers sweeping views of The Kāpiti Coast and Waikanae Estuary.
There are numerous walking and tramping tracks of various lengths and difficulty, including the easy Kohekohe Walk (30min loop), the steep bush-walk, Parata Track (1 to 2 hours return), or the more challenging tramping track, Te Au Track (2 to 4 hours return).
Get away from the city for one of the best trails Wellington has to offer. Dubbed “Stairway to Heaven,” the Escarpment Track zigs and zags above State Highway 1 with its challenging but rewarding 1,200 steps.
Running between Paekākāriki and Pukerua Bay, it offers a unique trail experience in the form of swing bridges and spectacular views of Kapiti Island. Pack the essentials and make a day of this 9km track. The steps are steep and not recommended for those with vertigo, but the views make it an experience to remember.
Explore the Kāpiti Coast on this 35km trail, popular with walkers, runners, cyclists, and horse riders. Stretching from Paekākāriki to Ōtaki, it takes you past dunes and wetlands, over bridges and underpasses, and through tunnels adorned with murals.
Coast 35 also connects you to local attractions, from the largest private car collection in Australasia at Southward Car Museum to the rare forests and native wildlife at Ngā Manu Nature Reserve in Waikanae. Along the way, stop in at one of the many cafés for a well-earned treat.
This coastal track winds through sand dunes between Paekākāriki and Raumati South. The sea, inland hills, and Kapiti Island will be a constant companion. On a clear day, you can see as far south as the South Island and north to Mount Ruapehu and Taranaki Maunga.
The well-maintained wide track is sign-posted. Keep an eye out for the birds commonly seen in the coastal habitat, including tūī, wax eye, fantail, goldfinch, yellowhammer, oystercatchers, and the more exotic white-faced heron.
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.
Generally considered an easy route, the gravel track starts from the river mouth at Ōtaki beachfront and continues past State Highway 1 all the way to a lagoon at Chrystalls Bend Walkway. This track is for all fitness levels and is perfect for the whole family to enjoy.
The Kāpiti Coast is a hive of activity, whatever your style you’ll find something to entertain you.
If you only have a day to spend in the Kāpiti Coast then you’ll need to get cracking. The sunny coast has a great selection of things to see, do, and eat.
With rare forests, picnic spots and native wildlife, Ngā Manu nature reserve is a top spot to go for a day out on the Kāpiti Coast.
Get among the treetops at Adrenalin Forest — an epic aerial obstacle course designed to challenge you physically and mentally.
From craft beer to cocktails, a drink on the Kāpiti Coast is best enjoyed with a side of sea views.
Sandy beaches, spectacular landscapes, and friendly people are all just a short drive from Wellington.
The Kāpiti Coast is full of cosy restaurants, cafés, bars, breweries, and bakeries. You can find delicious food and soul-warming meals up and down the Coast. Produce from local farms means everything is always as fresh as can be.
The city’s hills, beaches, and trails offer much opportunity to experience nature. Fuel your adventure with a stop-off at one of the excellent eateries offers nearby.
There are loads of epic day trips around the Wellington region. Here are our top picks for adventuring out on a trail.
With its two harbours and surrounding hills, Porirua is full of natural vistas. Whether it’s a steep climb with impressive panoramas, a foray into native flora, or a simple beach stroll, there’s something for all ages and abilities.