Top five summer walks

One of Kāpiti’s more popular walking and cycling trails, the Waikanae River Trail offers a peaceful riverside experience for all ages and abilities.

Set amongst 11 hectares of remnant Nikau and Kohekohe forest, this popular bush walk is a short but steep uphill hike.

The Parata track is a popular, steep bush walk located in the Hemi Matenga Scenic Reserve in Waikanae. This invigorating trail ascends through a remnant forest of nikau palms and kohekohe trees, offering refreshing shade on hot summers days.

Te Ara o Whareroa is an easy, sealed track that winds along the edge of Queen Elizabeth Park and its nearby sand dunes, stretching from Raumati South to Paekākāriki.  A popular shared path for walkers and cyclists, stop for a swim or take in the sunning ocean views at Whareroa Beach.

Located east of Waikanae, the Mangaone Walkway is a picturesque trail that follows an old bush tramway through lush native forest and a wide-open meadow. Along the way, you’ll cross a swing bridge and navigate small streams as the path winds its way through the Kaitawa Scenic Reserve.