Explore Kapiti Island’s natural and cultural heritage like never before and discover why our island is so significant in the history of the region.
This full-day tour takes you further and deeper into the exceptional nature and history of Kapiti Island. With commentary at three offshore islands, and a visit to an archaeological site, the cruise offers a rare glimpse into the region’s whaling history and remote cultural landmarks.
Learn more about Kapiti Island’s conservation history and its early Māori settlements, including Te Rauparaha’s pa site. A shore stop at Rangatira, at the DOC end of the island, offers a chance to spot the rare North Island kōkako. Then after a whānau-hosted lunch at Waiorua Bay, you’ll join your expert guide for a walk to the northern end of the island, to discover its unique lagoon habitat.
Exclusive to this tour:
👉 Visit offshore islands
👉 See Te Rauparaha’s pa site
👉 Stop at Te Kahu o te Rangi archaeological site
The Limited Edition Heritage Cruise includes:
🧺 Lunch, tea & coffee
🛥 Return ferry rides
🌿 DOC permit
🪶 Rare and beautiful birds to spot
📸 Stunning views
👍 Memories of a lifetime
Need to know:
Check-in: 9.15am
Location: Kapiti Island Nature Tours, 29 Marine Parade, Paraparaumu Beach.
Return: Arrival back at Paraparaumu Beach at approx 4.30pm.
Limited Sunday Dates:
2024:
27 October
24 November
15 December
2025:
26 January
9 February
Tour departure subject to suitable weather/sea conditions.
Need to know
What to bring
• Your own drinking water.
• Sturdy footwear.
• Warm clothing, a hat and a waterproof jacket, as the weather can change quickly.
Medical and mobility issues
If you or any of your party have any mobility or medical issues or concerns you must inform us when you are booking your trip. This will enable us to assess the trip’s suitability for you and provide additional support if needed. The trails are not paved and require a reasonable level of fitness to complete the tracks and in particular to climb to the highest point.
Boat ramp access
Access to the island is via a ramp and the beach is stony. You will need to be able to walk across an uneven and stony beach. If you have any concerns please ask and we can help you assess the trip’s suitability.
On the island
A shelter and toilets are available on the Island. There is no shop available. A small selection of gifts and souvenirs are available to purchase at the Lodge.
Ferry service
Departures are from Kapiti Boating Club, Paraparaumu Beach.
Health & safety
We will do our best to get you to Kapiti Island, however safety is paramount. We review conditions daily and the ferry skipper may cancel the sailing.
Cancellations
We understand that plans change, so please call or email us if you need to change or cancel your trip. If your trip is cancelled by the ferry skipper you can transfer to another available date or request a refund. See our full cancellation policy here.
Overnight Experience
Enjoy everything in the Guided Tour and then stay for the night tour. Kapiti Island is the best place in the world to spot the Little Spotted Kiwi in the wild. You can choose from cabin or glamping accommodation. For Overnight Experience, click here.
