The Lockup

Situated a stone's throw away from the beach at Paraparaumu, The Lockup is the ultimate ocean-side cafe, complete with a large outdoor area and a chilled vibe. Come as you are with the kids and dogs in tow; nobody will mind a bit of sand between your toes around here.

Famous for brilliant coffee brewed with local Dark Horse beans and delicious homemade baking (think next-level custard squares, outstanding gems and mouth-watering cakes), The Lockup is a true favourite amongst Paraparaumu Beach locals and visitors. There are a few menu items on offer, such as creamy garlic mushrooms or bacon, egg and chip buttie.

This friendly community cafe run by a mother-daughter duo started off as a takeaway window in 2020. It has since grown to its current size, offering plenty of outdoor seating and within a covered verandah. There is a kid's play corner and plenty of cosy spots for your four-legged friend to settle down on; The Lockup is well known as one of the best dog-friendly cafes you'll come across in Kāpiti, so it really would be a crime to leave the pooch at home when popping in.

Community is at the heart of it all here, and recent additions to serve the good people of the coast are a community notice board and a little library. If you're in the market for a long-lasting drink bottle or reusable coffee cup, The Lockup is a place to point your nose to, as it also stocks an impressive array of Frank Green.