History, Recreation and Relaxation on the Kapiti Coast of New Zealand
EducationHistory, Recreation and Relaxation on the Kapiti Coast of New Zealand
Less than a 40 minute drive north of the capital city, Wellington, on the south western coast of the North Island, a short stretch of coastal communities offer a mix of relaxation, recreation and history. Bounded by the Tasman Sea and the Tararua Ranges, this area is popular with locals, day trippers, and short and long term visitors. There is plenty to see and plenty to do, as well as a chance of doing nothing but enjoy the surroundings.
Kapiti Island
The coast is dominated by Kapiti Island, five km offshore. This island has many stories to tell. Rich in colourful New Zealand history from pre and early European settlement days, the island was once stronghold for the Maori chief and warrior, Te Rauparaha. It also featured in the travels of Capt James Cook, and was a whaling base for many years.
The island is now a marine and nature reserve, protected by the Department of Conservation. Efforts were made to bring it to a predator free status, enabling it to be established as a sanctuary for many endangered native birds. It is easy to visit, but permits are required and daily numbers are restricted.
Southward Car Museum
North of Paraparaumu, at Otaihanga, is an automobile museum, with many fascinating exhibits. One interesting exhibit is the Rolls Royce that once belonged to Marlene Dietrich.
The museum was established by Sir Len Southward. He began collecting and restoring cars as an interest in 1956 and the museum was opened in 1979. Over 350 vehicles are on display, not only cars but also aircraft, motorcycles and other transport related displays.
Lindale Farm and Convention Centre
Lindale Centre, open every day except public holidays, is a chance to step away from the hustle and bustle and relax a while. One of the highlights is a short farm walk where visitors can mingle with farm animals and feed baby animals. The walk takes about thirty minutes, depending on how long you stop and enjoy the animals.
A small shopping complex is located there, selling locally produced products such as cheese and ice cream, exquisite arts and crafts by local artists, and a café offering local food and New Zealand wine.
Recreation and Relaxation on the Coast
Whether you just want to walk on the beaches and enjoy the surroundings, or be more active, there is plenty to do. The area has opportunities for outdoor adventure, swimming and other sports, and has established a name with keen golfers. The links at the Paraparaumu Beach Golf Club are said to be one of the best in the southern hemisphere. Many top international golfers, including Tiger Woods have played there at the New Zealand Open Championships.
For the less active there is shopping, both at the big Coastlands centre on the main road at Paraparaumu, or more specialised shops in the small villages such as Raumati and Paraparaumu Beach. The local cafes are also very popular.
New Zealand Movies
Peter Jackson, of Lord of the Rings and King Kong fame, set some scenes of his movies in the Kapiti Coast. Some of the battle scenes in Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King were shot at Queen Elizabeth Park, and scenes from King Kong were shot in the waters around Raumati Beach.
Kapiti Coast
Kapiti Coast is still relatively unspoiled and is popular with locals, day visitors and those with time for a longer stay. It offers far more than mentioned here and is a wonderful place to sample some of the history of New Zealand, to enjoy a variety of sport and recreation opportunities and to simply relax, enjoy the beaches, and sample local food and wine under the watchful eye of Kapiti Island.