48 Hours Kāpiti Coast

Walk down the main street and head to Beach Road Deli for a coffee and something from the bagel menu or cabinet. Take note of the striking historical building this cafe is located within; it is one of the oldest buildings in the village. Back in the day, the top floor housed billiard rooms, while the street front was dotted with shops as it is today. 

Once you've charged up, wander down the main street and take in the vibe of this creative seaside town. Take a pit stop outside St Peter's Hall, an iconic Paekākāriki community venue, where noteworthy gigs and all types of gatherings are held from time to time. Head towards the beach and descend onto the sand for a stroll in the sea breeze, taking in the view across to Kāpiti Island.

Once satisfied with all that Paekākāriki has to offer, head north towards Paraparaumu. Make your first stop at the Sheffield Street Collective and embark on a mini taste tour of the innovative businesses here: Dark Horse, Montfoort and Duncan's Brewing Company. Set up much like a street food hub, this is where you can enjoy another hit of excellent coffee (we recommend also grabbing some beans to take home), accompanied by the tastiest Dutch sweet treats you've ever dug your teeth into. Behind these guys, you'll see the colourful outdoor space of Duncan's Brewery, where you can taste their outrageously exciting beers before deciding on a selection of kooky cans to take away.

Next stop, Paraparaumu Beach. Wander the streets and pop into the local boutiques, of which there are plenty. Even if you're not after any florals while on holiday, poke your nose into The Wilderness, a stunning florist dedicated to creating unique bunches and gifts. Another spot not to be missed is The Power Plant on the main drag. It's houseplant heaven, like a greenhouse where everything is for sale. 

After wandering, rest your legs and recharge at The Lockup, just a few steps from the beachfront. If you've had enough caffeine for one day already, fear not; there are plenty of cold and caffeine-free drinks to choose from here. In-house-made food is honest and delicious — filling that puku now is a good idea. Afterwards, cross the road for another beachside walk, because why not?

Now might be a good time to check in to your accommodation, but the risk is that you won't want to leave once you get there. Dreamscape Glamping is your destination for the night, which is a quick drive inland and up the hill. Take in the view, ditch the bags, crack open a drink and wind down before heading back to Paraparaumu Beach.

Now that you're probably getting hungry, head to Salty's Diner for a pre-dinner drink and a game of pool. It's a fun, out-of-the-ordinary destination and a great spot to enjoy a chinwag with friendly locals. Gather your wins and losses and head around the corner for an absolute stunner of a dinner at 50-50. This gem of a restaurant, owned and operated by chef Helen Turnbull, will have your tastebuds dancing for joy. Expect on-point hospitality and exceptional dishes with imaginative flavour combinations. 

At the end of the evening, there really is no better place to retreat to than your fabulous accommodation, where you can take in the stars and the distant lights of the township.

Start the day bright and early to make the most of the daylight hours. Head north towards Waikanae Beach and grab breakfast at the iconic Long Beach Tavern, where most of the greenery on your plate comes from the restaurant's garden out back. Talking of the garden, make sure you stroll around to appreciate all that goes on behind the scenes here.

Next, stop by Hendrix Lifestyle Store just up the road for some retail therapy. This beautifully curated store is a joy to encounter. Whether you're in need of a gift for someone special or feel like treating yourself to a souvenir from the coast, there's nowhere better to find something that can be treasured for years to come.

Another must-visit before leaving town is Toi MAHARA gallery, right in Waikanae township. This is where artists with connections to Kāpiti Coast are celebrated, including paintings by world-famous local artist Frances Hodgkins in the Field Collection. 

En route further north, pull in at Ngā Manu Nature Reserve to take in the wonders of the natural world of the Kāpiti Coast. Stroll along the tracks through lush bush and encounter some of Aotearoa's native birds in real life. 

Time for a refreshment, surely? Make your way towards Ōtaki, turning off at Te Horo Beach to take a lunch break at Bus Stop Cafe. This unique, quirky, bus-come-cafe is best enjoyed on a sunny day, but even when the weather is not playing ball, there are lots of snug little corners to take shelter in.

Once back on the road, make the town of Ōtaki your next destination. Here, you'll find Toi Matarau, a gallery within the Māoriland Hub, where you can appreciate and purchase Māori art in all forms. The knowledgeable people behind the counter are more than happy to share stories of the artists whose works are exhibited. Upon exiting, stroll along the main street of Ōtaki before heading on your way again.

It's undoubtedly getting to that time of day again when the puku begins to rumble, so make your next stop at Penray Gardens. Depending on the season, you can pick your own strawberries, other fruit or vegetables, and stock up on all the produce you need from the Penray store. 

End the day back in Waikanae village at The Salt and Wood Collective. Sip a brew from the neighbouring North End Brewery, dig into some slow-cooked meat and enjoy the atmosphere of one of the most popular Kāpiti Coast spots.