|
New Zealand
> Wellington > Kapiti Coast
The Kapiti Coast is a complete contrast to the
hustle and bustle of busy Wellington and less than an hour's
drive or train ride away, is the
relaxing atmosphere of this coastal
region. Here, spectacular sea views -
dominated by the mysterious Kapiti
Island - are teamed with glorious
sunsets, untouched native forest and
rugged hills to form the Kapiti
Coast.
 Home to a world renown
area of marine and nature reserves,
the Kapiti Coast offers a wide range
of activities from adrenaline-pumping
outdoor adventures to the much more
leisurely art of shopping your way
through a superb variety of shops.
Add some attractions such as restored
trams, a world class car museum,
arguably New Zealand's top golf
course (Paraparaumu Beach Links Golf
Course) and a variety of arts and
crafts and you have something for
everyone here.
Whether
you are a gourmet or just someone who
loves cheeses then the unique Kapiti
Cheeses shop and factory will be on
your 'must visit' list. Sample a full
range of cheeses made right here at
the factory including the gold
medal-winning Aorangi and Kikorangi.
Ask one of the knowledgeable staff
for suggestions about the perfect
cheeses for your cheese board or
entrees, and what crackers and fruit
platters to complement your cheese
selection. Take some of the cheese
made on the premises or one of a
numerous range of cheeses from around
the world home with you. Just a hint
- the factory also makes some of the
most wonderfully creamy ice-creams
and sorbets too.
Kapiti
Island, just a short five kilometres
offshore, is only ten kilometres long
and two kilometres wide. It holds a
special and significant place in the
history and culture of the people of
the Coast. It is home to an
internationally renown nature reserve
protecting some very rare and
endangered bird species.
Only
fifty people a day will be granted a
permit from the Department of
Conservation to visit the Kapiti
Island Nature Reserve. All visits are
strictly controlled and one is aware
always of the immense care with which
the birds, plants, insects and
lizards are treated. No plant
material or any creature may be
removed from the island. To get your
permit, call The Dept of Conservation
on 04 472 7356 and phone 0800 Kapiti
to arrange transportation.
 There
are three public tracks on the
island. Two lead up to the summit of
Tuteremoana and the round trip takes
about three hours walking. The third
track follows the coast to the north
end of Kapiti Island with the return
trip taking about two and a half
hours. The bird life is abundant and
be on the lookout for Kaka, Kakariki,
Robin, Saddleback, Stitchbird, Weka,
Kereru, Bellbirds and the very rare
Takahe. Kiwi are also on the island
however being a nocturnal bird, they
are not to be seen during the day.
For your stay, The
Kapiti Gateway Motel (above right) is centrally located in the
beautiful city of Waikanae. The hotel is an ideal place to stay for
those who appreciate tranquil surroundings and outdoor recreation. The
city provides many tourist attractions along with numerous restaurants.
 Mana
Motel Wellington is only five minutes drive away
from Porirua city centre and twenty minutes drive away from Wellington city
centre.
Mana Motel offers seventeen units - studio, one and two bedroom. All units
feature kitchen facilities |
