Exploring Paraparaumu
Paraparaumu, the largest town on the Kāpiti Coast, has flourished since the main highway was rerouted away from the town. This coastal town is known for Paraparaumu Beach, a prime spot for exploring the area’s beach-lined coast and accessing Kāpiti Island.
Paraparaumu Beach: A Coastal Gem
Paraparaumu Beach is a key attraction, forming part of an 18 km stretch of sandy coastline that extends from Paekākāriki through Raumati to the Waikanae Estuary. This beach is ideal for walking, with Te Araroa, the long-distance walking trail, running along its entire length. The beach is also the departure point for ferries to Kāpiti Island, located opposite the intersection of Kapiti Road and Marine Parade.
Distinctive Features and Activities
Unlike the narrower sections of beach from Raumati to Paekākāriki, Paraparaumu Beach is notably wider and directly faces Kāpiti Island. The area is well-developed, featuring walkways, parks, and a variety of eateries. On weekends, you can often see people driving onto the beach to launch their boats, embracing a quintessential Kiwi lifestyle. This beach is also the departure point for boat trips to the Kāpiti Island eco-sanctuary.
Capturing the Perfect Sunset
Paraparaumu Beach is a fantastic location for capturing sunset photographs, with the silhouette of Kāpiti Island providing a stunning backdrop.
Getting to Paraparaumu
To reach Paraparaumu from Wellington, take the motorway, State Highway 1, to the Kapiti Road off-ramp. Head northwest on Kapiti Road, then south on Marine Parade. There are numerous shops, eateries and parking options next to the beach.
To the north, you can also visit Waikanae Beach, Waimanu Lagoon and walk the Waikanae River Track. Parks and reserves include Ngaā Manu, Hemi Matenga Reserve, the Barry Hadfield Nikau Reserve and Paraparaumu Scenic Reserve.
