Private Tour
Kapiti Island Classic Guided Day Tour
Overview
Available languages
Mobile ticket
Kapiti Island is one of New Zealand’s best-kept nature sanctuaries and a pest and predator-free haven for native birds.
Take the ferry from Paraparaumu Beach to Waiorua at the northern end of the island. You'll be met by your local guide who tell you the unique history and stories of this place and will walk with you to help you identify the flora & fauna all around you. You'll have time for independent walking before enjoying a delicious buffet lunch at the lodge. In the afternoon you'll head back to the mainland by ferry.
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Please contact us between 7-7:15am on the day of your tour to confirm your check in time and that the tour is going ahead. Ph: 0800 527 484.
Lodge closed during June/July/August for annual maintenance
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Kapiti Island
Experience Kapiti Island with a day tour to Waiorua Bay. Enjoy a guided walk, learn the stories of this magical island, and enjoy our famous hospitality with a delicious lunch at the Lodge.
What‘s Included
Return ferry transportation from Paraparaumu Beach to Kapiti Island
A 1hr guided nature/history walk.
An introductory talk from an experienced and passionate local guide
Lunch prepared by chef at The Lodge
Department of Conservation and local council permits
Coffee and/or Tea
Entry / Admission - Kapiti Island
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Gratuities (not required)
Options
Kapiti Island Classic Guided Day Tour
Reviews
522 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Fabulous experience
Barb OK2014,,Jan 25, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had tried to visit from the US in 2023 and the weather prevented us from going. We came back and it was so worth it. The guide taught us a lot, then let us explore on our own. After we hiked around we all met at the lodge for a delicious lunch. We saw many birds, heard many more, and loved being there.
Birdsong on Kapiti
Bev A,,Jan 20, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Had the best experience visiting Kapiti Island. The staff were friendly and helpful; loved Yazzie’ buzzy personality and knowledge. It rained while we were there so the views from the summit were atmospheric but the walk up through the forest was gorgeous on well formed tracks with so much birdsong. The shelter was a welcome respite for lunch before the boat ride back. The captain and his crew rode the boat straight up the trailer… woohoo. Thanks everyone.
Must Do Again
Pathfinder319788,,Jan 15, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had a brilliant day, loads of birdsong to listen to. Lots of birds to see if you stand still for a while. Guides were great, very thoughtful and had a wealth of info to share. The overnight stay looks fabulous.
Hidden Gem.
Curiosity55026085685,,Jan 15, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Had a wonderful time and a glorious day too. The guide gave us a great overview of the island and its history. Very keen to go back again !!
Great day for the whole family
Companion11846928579,,Jan 12, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Well organized. Quality information. Very personable staff at building, on boat, on island. Family group of 11 people from 13yrs to 82yrs - each chose the path for their fitness level and had a great day.
Great Day out
256jodier,,Jan 9, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Great day at Kapiti Island 🌿⛰️ Walked to the summit with outstanding 360° views 🌊🌄. The hills were a hard slog 🥵😅, but totally worth it once we reached the top 🙌✨
Worth to see
didiercI8899CP,,Jan 7, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I have learned a lot about all the species living ( or not living there anymore 😀)thanks to the Lady at the réception, I missed the boat and she found a solution
Our family loved our day trip to Kāpiti Island
sarahmA1555CX,,Jan 7, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Our family enjoyed everything about the day trip to Kāpiti Island, from when we checked in and boarded the boat at Paraparaumu Beach to our return several hours later. We were impressed by the excellent staff who were professional, knowledgeable and friendly. The tracks are very well maintained and good to walk and the facilities are also well maintained. We enjoyed a beautiful lunch at the Lodge at Waiorua Bay. A highlight was seeing and hearing all the beautiful birds. It was great to see all the conservation work being done by DoC and the whānau there. We loved our trip and we would all go again. Our thanks to everyone who gave us such a great experience!
Superb - 10/10 would go again
emsproul,,Jan 3, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00A rawe experience! The whole day tour was superbly organised and my family loved every moment. My partner and I have been before, as we love birds & nature - however, in December we saw MORE birds and were deeply grateful to hear & see a kokako. I especially enjoyed the talk at the beginning of the day tour- which gave a great overview of the Maori and Pakeha histories and how they intersect.
Beautiful Day!
Laura S,,Dec 29, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00It was really a lovely day. We took the earliest ferry possible. We climbed halfway to the top and we're not able to go all the way up so we went back down and did the loops on the bottom. We saw lots of birds. The forest is beautiful on the island.
Related Experiences
Operated by Kapiti Island Nature Tours