Kapiti Island Nature Reserve
Te Waewae-Kapiti-o-Tara-raua-ko-Rangitane
Fee required
Parking available
A tranquil island bird sanctuary and one of New Zealand’s most accessible nature reserves, home to rare bird species and offering guided tours and overnight stays.

📜 A tranquil nature reserve five kilometres off the Kāpiti coastline, known by Maori as Te Waewae-Kapiti-o-Tara-raua-ko-Rangitane.
🔍 This unique visitor experience is a predator-free paradise.

Why Go

🐦 Get up close with rare birds like kākā, kōkako, takahē
🚶 Wander tracks through dense native forest
⛰️ Climb 521m peak for panoramic views
🌌 Overnight stays for kiwi spotting

Why Avoid

⛔ Access only by approved tour operators, no private boats
🗓️ Book well in advance for summer visits
💧 All water on island is untreated
🔥 No fires or smoking allowed
🚫 Nothing may be removed from the island
🎒 Bags inspected for pests before boarding

Tips

🥪 Bring own lunch, drinking water, sturdy footwear, warm clothing, waterproof jacket.
⚠️ Keep belongings out of reach of inquisitive weka and kākā.
📞 Contact operator for weather check and departure time.

🅿️ Parking

Free parking available at Kapiti Boating Club or nearby park and playground.

🚌 Transport

Ferry departs from Kapiti Boating Club, Paraparaumu Beach.
About 1 hour drive or train journey from Wellington.

🚾 Toilets

Available on the island.

🛌 Accommodation

Glamping tents, cabins, and self-contained cabin available for overnight stays.
Only provider of accommodation on the island.

Last updated 3 days ago

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