Kapiti Island lies a short distance off the coast near Paraparaumu, a town situated on SH1 north-west of Wellington. In the early 19th century the island was a base for the marauding expeditions led by the warrior chief Te Rauparaha. Skilled in warfare and aware of the advantages of Pakeha technology, the 'Maori Napoleon' armed his warriors with muskets before embarking on a campaign of conquest that decimated rival tribes as far south as Kaiapoi, in the vicinity of Christchurch.

These days the island is a wildlife reserve with strictly limited access. As it is now virtually devoid of mainland pests such as opossums and rats, (the result of an eradication scheme carried out by the DOC over a period of many years), the native birds and vegetation have been able to regenerate. Among the rarer birds visitors may be lucky to see are kaka parrots, saddlebacks and parakeets.


Eating Out

If the day's sightseeing is to be concluded with a culinary treat then why not combine it with a dinner cruise (Bluefin Cruises) on the Harbour? However, if the weather makes it seem more prudent to stay on shore you can still enjoy the atmosphere, together with a delicious seafood meal, at either Dockside or Shed 5 on Queen's Wharf. Otherwise take your pick; Chinese, Italian, Malaysian, Thai, Indian and even Mongolian fare can be consumed by candlelight and to a musical accompaniment ranging from classical to live jazz.