The Kapiti Coast is a string of relaxed beach towns running north of Wellington along the Tasman Sea. It is where Wellingtonians go when they want sun, surf, and a slower pace — the climate is noticeably warmer and calmer than the capital, sheltered from the worst of the southerlies by the Tararua Range.
The main draw offshore is Kapiti Island, a predator-free nature reserve where you can walk among kaka, weka, and the rare little spotted kiwi. Access is by permit only, with boats departing from Paraparaumu Beach. On the mainland, the coast offers good swimming beaches, coastal walks, and a scattering of cafes and craft breweries in towns like Paraparaumu, Raumati, and Paekakariki.
The coast is on the main rail line between Wellington and Auckland, making it easy to reach without a car.
