Paraparaumu

Paraparaumu is the largest town on the Kapiti Coast.  It is located in a stunning setting and boasts excellent facilities for both residents and visitors. Surrounded by hills to the east and Kapiti Island to the west, it generally experiences mild weather, a few degrees higher on average than the rest of the greater Wellington region.

Where once Paraparaumu had a reputation solely as a holiday location and tourist destination, now it is predominantly occupied by full-time residents. It is currently the second fastest growing urban area in New Zealand with lifestyle the main focus of many residents.

Paraparaumu is a popular shopping centre with the quaint village atmosphere by the beach complementing the vast range of products on offer at Coastlands Shopping town.  It has a wonderful beach with a real carnival atmosphere and is the venue for many events throughout the year.

Kapiti Island and Paraparaumu Beach Golf Links: two very different attractions but both world renowned. The famous island landmark is home to some of the most endangered native birds, yet it is one of the few relatively accessible island nature reserves in New Zealand.  The Paraparaumu Beach Links Golf Course is the only New Zealand course in the world top 100.

Sunset over Kapiti Island
from Paraparaumu Beach

For full details of the Kapiti Coast Arts Guide, which is a new Kapiti Coast District Council initiative, contact your local visitor information centres for a copy of the guide. This guide has addresses, opening hours and contacts phone numbers. This guide is free of charge.