TRIP 5 LOWER NORTH ISLAND Ōtaki River © Getty Images
TRIP 5
a journey up
Kāpiti Coast Wellington to Foxton Beach via a pretty coastline and SH 1 1hr 50min, 124km
L
SIDE TRIP
eave the bright lights of Wellington City behind on a road trip that takes in the length of the Kāpiti Coast.
Paraparaumu to Kāpiti Island via ferry from Paraparaumu Beach 15min, 5km
Follow the coastline for an entirely different experience ABOVE: Pāuatahanui inlet, Porirua © Johnny Hendrikus RIGHT: Ōtaki River © Getty Images
As you head out of the central city on SH 1, you’ll pass through Johnsonville and Tawa, before reaching the harbourside city of Porirua. The unmistakable silhouette of Kāpiti Island will keep you company as you drive north and a visit to this remarkable wildlife sanctuary, launched from Paraparaumu, is a must-do day trip detour. From Paekākāriki at the southern end of the Kāpiti Coast to Foxton Beach and Hīmatangi Beach in the north, there is enough sand and surf to keep the coastal connoisseurs satisfied. Waikanae is another gem, with beaches, walks and an impressive bird sanctuary. On the other side of the highway the rugged expanse of the Akatārawa Forest Park and the Tararua Range provide ample options for outdoor excursions.
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