With the young
Nik Bullard
At the beach
Building sandcastles and making driftwood sculptures are popular pursuits. For the littlies, Wainui Stream at the north end of the village offers a safe paddling spot. See At the beach for more information.Campbell Park
Campbell Park is Paekākāriki’s main recreational facility for young people. It is located between Wellington Road and The Parade, a 10-minute walk from the shops or train station. It has a playground suitable for young children with more challenging areas for older children and lots of great trees to climb and banks to play on. The skate park caters for beginners through to moderate skill levels. There are two playing fields for running around and ball sports, and sloping hills perfect for sliding or rolling down. A concrete, albeit rather steep path comes down from Wellington Road at the southern end of the park. Prams can be pushed over the grass up from The Parade or from the grassed northern entrance to the park on Wellington Rd. There are two picnic tables which, depending on the time of the day, provide some shade and also many grassy spots to picnic under the trees. Toilets are located midway down the hill on the main path and at the southern end of the lower sports ground is another public toilet with disability access. Drinking fountains (including one for dogs) are located at the main playground and on the northern exterior wall of Memorial Hall on The Parade. Popular activities include sliding down the hill above the skate park on cardboard, exploring the hill between the upper and lower playing fields, and bush adventures in the trees between the upper field and Wellington Road. After you've sweated it out on the skate park, head to The Lost Jandal for an icecream or milkshake.Queen Elizabeth Park
At the north end of Paekākāriki, with its 650 hectares of easy terrain edged by a sandy beach, Queen Elizabeth Park is the jewel in our crown and has plenty of space to enjoy. This is the last area of natural dunes on Kāpiti's coastline and is protected and cared for by Greater Wellington Regional Council. The park is steeped in history including pā sites at Whareroa and Wainui beaches and evidence of the 20,000-strong US marines during World War II. Queen Elizabeth Park has many walking and cycling tracks, easily accessed with a buggy or bike, some linking all the way from Paekākāriki to Raumati South. See walks & rides for more information. Special features include the relatively tame eels at the western end of Wainui Stream on the stream walk, before the Yankee Trail - take meat scraps to entice them out, and watch your tamariki’s faces light up with wonder at these ancient and almost mythical creatures of the dark. A walk up to the local urupā (cemetery) and the top of Wainui pā offer great views. If walking, please be aware of cyclists on some of the tracks (especially along Wainui Stream). From Paekākāriki, QE Park can be accessed at the end of Tilley and Wellington Roads, and via the beach past the Surf Club. If coming by train, head north via Tilley or Wellington Road. This takes you to the end of Paekakariki and the beginning of the park. If driving, go past the shops and turn right into Wellington Road and drive to the beginning of the park. There is ample parking. Queen Elizabeth Park is accessible for buggies and bikes. There are numerous concreted areas for wheelchairs but bear in mind it is mainly a grassed space. Toilets are located at three sites in QE Park – the left-hand side playing fields at the entrance; at the beginning of the road along the beach, and at the main picnic area after the bridge (turn right down the palm boulevard). All have baby change tables and disability toilets. All toilets have drinking fountains for people and dogs, and even a cold outdoor shower. Queen Elizabeth Park has numerous picnic sites and picnic tables, with some in the shade. Picnic sites can be booked for a small fee through Greater Wellington Regional Council.Mackays Crossing
Further north, at Mackays Crossing entrance, you can find Wellington Tramway Museum, with historic trams running on the 2km line to Whareroa Beach, and a small shop selling ice creams when the trams are running - Saturday, Sunday and public holidays (except Christmas day) from 11am-4.30pm. There are walks at Whareroa Stream, the bush remnant and wetland.Other recommended activities at or near the park
- Floating kowhai seeds down Wainui stream (as they need water in order to germinate and disperse)
- Theo’s climbing tree (large gum tree at the end of the palm boulevard)
- Ball play at the fields (Tilley Road and Wellington Road entrances)
- Scooting, skating and ride-ons at the sports fields car park (north end of Tilley Road)
- Flying kites
Useful links for activities while in the park
- Wild Eyes – Nature missions for kiwi kids. Learn nature ninja skills, get crafty, hunt poo and discover amazing stuff outdoors.
- Nature Watch NZ – Record what you see in nature, meet other nature watchers and learn about the natural world.
- Check out the Whareroa Guardians page for lots of top information.
Other activities for children
- A steam train excursion with Steam Incorporated – Paekākāriki
- The Paekākāriki Station Museum at Paekākāriki Railway Station and Kākāriki Books
- Paekākāriki Library is at the Tennis Club Rooms, 14 Wellington Road and is open Monday and Wednesday 1.30-4.30pm and Saturday 10am-2pm. There is a good selection of books, DVDs, CDs, eBooks, jigsaws, talking books and magazines for all ages, two computers (with free wifi) and toys for young children to play with. Printing, photocopying, faxing and scanning (charges apply) are available.
- Paekākāriki Tennis Club, on the corner of Wellington and Robertson Roads, offers three courts with free public access except Wednesdays and Saturdays from 1pm, from October each year to Easter weekend.
- Paekākāriki School grounds (out of hours only) are available for the junior and senior playgrounds, biking, balance biking, scootering and skateboarding on the entranceway concreted area, ball sports on the fields and basketball and netball on the concrete sports arena.
- The Old Whatisname Library Named after one of Kapiti’s civic dignitaries, The Old Whatsisname Memorial Library is a free book-swap facility where locals can take, swap or drop off books, magazines, CDs and DVDs.
Eats
Paekākāriki has good cafés and a family restaurant, all of which are happy to accommodate children.- Beach Road Deli: Beverages, counter food and wood-fired pizza.
- The Perching Parrot Café: Beverages, counter and menu food. Toilets and toys available.
- Finns: Resaturant, bar & hotel.
- Fisherman's Table: Family restaurant with indoor and outdoor dining. Salad bar and children’s menus.
Early childhood education facilities
- Paekākāriki Playcentre
- Te Rawhiti Playgroup and Te Rawhiti Kindergarten
- Baby playgroups are periodically formed on an informal basis. See our calendar or Paekākāriki Tauhokohoko page for this (a community site for permanent residents) or the noticeboard at the village shops.
The museum presents artefacts relating to the history of Paekākāriki and its surrounding area. Items on display relate to both Māori and European settlement, the history of rail in the area and the encampment of thousands of US Marines near Mackays Crossing during World War II.
52 Tilley Rd
Paekākāriki
Paekākāriki
A sweet wee free library set-up on the berm. Boasts a seat for one, book-lined walls and solar powered lights Take, swap, refill, respect!
Filed Under: A-Z, Lending libraries, Local Services, With the young
Queen Elizabeth Park
Less than one hour
The Yankee Trail winds along the Wainui Stream, then heads north to the US Marine Memorial. Here you can read about the American namesakes of this trail. The track gives great views of a scenic wetland and farmed hills - including plenty of sheep!
Filed Under: Ride nearby, A-Z, Directory of Everything, Walks & rides, With the young
Queen Elizabeth Park
Mackays Crossing entrance
Paekākāriki
Mackays Crossing entrance
Paekākāriki
Sat-Sun: 11am-4.30pm
Public holidays: 11am-4.30pm
Open daily Boxing Day-late Jan
Public holidays: 11am-4.30pm
Open daily Boxing Day-late Jan
Take a fun ride, enjoy the nature. Take time to look at the displays and photos on show in the Tram Barn and have a look at videos of trams in action or become a member and assist with restoration, drive trams etc. Our kiosk is open selling cold drinks, ice creams and snacks.
Filed Under: Arts & heritage, A-Z, With the young
The Old Dental Clinic
Paekākāriki School
90 Wellington Rd
Paekākāriki School
90 Wellington Rd
James Albertson
As part of Paekākāriki 88.2FM our tamariki at Paekākāriki School have the opportunity to run their own lunchtime half-hour radio shows 1-1.30pm weekdays (repeating 8-8.30am). They share music, stories, news and talk to others, growing their public presentation & technical skills.
Filed Under: Arts & heritage, A-Z, Directory of Everything, With the young
The Engine Shed
SH 1
Paekākāriki
SH 1
Paekākāriki
Mon-Sat: 9am-4pm
Membership is open to anyone who wishes to support the activities of the Society. Frequent excursions to different destinations, typically every 1-2 months as advertised.
Filed Under: Arts & heritage, A-Z, Directory of Everything, On the town, With the young
A gardening group that welcomes volunteers at Paekākāriki School - gardeners and non-gardeners, parents, grandparents and non-parents. Our plant sales raise money to fund the gardening curriculum - our students learn about gardening and cooking from our experienced gardeners.
Filed Under: A-Z, Clubs & groups, Environmental, With the young
Whareroa Farm
Mackays Crossing
Mackays Crossing
Ann Evans
A Charitable Trust of volunteers which was established to protect and develop Whareroa Farm Reserve (WFR) as a reserve for environmental and heritage conservation and public enjoyment. Planting working bees, pest control, track development, guided tours.
Filed Under: A-Z, Clubs & groups, Environmental, With the young
Queen Elizabeth Park
Mackays Crossing
Mackays Crossing
Sat & Sun: weather dependent
Spectators are welcome at any time at the club when members are flying. There is a good vantage point on the slope running up behind the club house. If you have children with you, please make sure they do not wander off. Strictly no dogs.
Contact Ian McMillan.
Contact Ian McMillan.
Filed Under: A-Z, Clubs & groups, On the town, Sports & recreation, With the young
The Parade Nth
Queen Elizabeth Park
Paekākāriki
Queen Elizabeth Park
Paekākāriki
Laura Taylor
The Paekākāriki Surf Lifeguards patrol Paekākāriki Beach from November through March. We have a large active membership of junior surf (7-13 years) and senior members (14 years+) & offer competitive training squads for surf sports.
Filed Under: At the beach, A-Z, Clubs & groups, Sports & recreation, With the young
Cnr of Wellington & Robertson Rds
Paekākāriki
Paekākāriki
Mixed seniors: Thursday evenings 6-8pm and Sundays 3-5pm
Junior coaching: Sun 10am
Junior coaching: Sun 10am
Mark Stables
Mark Stables ph 027 6072248
New members are very welcome.
A low cost family membership allows you to take part in club days/nights with free entry in club tournaments, along with subsidised beginner level coaching for 6–18year olds, access to professional coaching + interclub. The season runs from Sept-Mar
A low cost family membership allows you to take part in club days/nights with free entry in club tournaments, along with subsidised beginner level coaching for 6–18year olds, access to professional coaching + interclub. The season runs from Sept-Mar
Filed Under: A-Z, Clubs & groups, Sports & recreation, With the young
Paekākāriki School
90 Wellington Rd
90 Wellington Rd
Wed: 4.30-5.30pm (7-13 years)
We practice Combat Hapkido, a self-defence martial art. Come and learn the discipline, get fit and empower yourself.
Filed Under: A-Z, Sports & recreation, With the young
14 Wellington Rd
Paekākāriki
Paekākāriki
Mon & Wed: 1.30pm-4.30pm
Sat: 10am-2pm.
Sat: 10am-2pm.
04 296 4700
or 0800 486 486
or 0800 486 486
In the Tennis Club rooms you'll find our local little library. There is a good selection of books, DVDs, CDs, eBooks, jigsaws, talking books and magazines for all ages, two computers (with free wifi). Printing, photocopying, faxing and scanning available.
Lower Campbell Park
The Parade
Paekākāriki
The Parade
Paekākāriki
Junior football training and games from age 4 up.
Filed Under: A-Z, Clubs & groups, Sports & recreation, With the young
Whareroa Farm
Less than one hour
If you’re after a short, easy wander in the bush, you can’t go wrong with the Forest Loop Walk. Starting from Whareroa Farm car park, the track allows a good view of Kāpiti Island, then heads through native kohekohe forest.
Filed Under: Walk nearby, A-Z, Directory of Everything, Walks & rides, With the young
Queen Elizabeth Park
1-2 hours
If you’re a fan of sea and hill views, and don’t mind some ups and downs, head along the winding, ridge-top Inland Track. It’s a quieter, wilder alternative to the Coastal Track or Te Ara o Whareroa.
Filed Under: Walk nearby, A-Z, Directory of Everything, Walks & rides, With the young
Queen Elizabeth Park
Paekākāriki
Paekākāriki
This much-loved seaside trail offers stunning coastal views and countless places to rest, play, picnic or swim.
Filed Under: Walk nearby, At the beach, A-Z, Directory of Everything, Walks & rides, With dogs, With the young
Ames St Reserve
Paekākāriki Village
Paekākāriki Village
Less than one hour
An easy amble in Paekākāriki village’s southern parts, this walk combines bush, beach and views of the escarpment and ocean. A highlight is Ames St Reserve, or Penguin Park, where blue penguins nest.
Filed Under: Walk nearby, A-Z, Directory of Everything, Walks & rides, With the young
Paekākāriki Village
Less than one hour
Wander along this easy walk that showcases local poetry and visual art, from the village centre.
Filed Under: Walk nearby, A-Z, Directory of Everything, Walks & rides, With the young
Queen Elizabeth Park
Less than one hour
The Wainui Stream Walk is one of the quiet treasures of the lower North Island. At Paekākāriki’s northern edge, it allows an easy escape into bush and solitude, without straying far.
Filed Under: Walk nearby, A-Z, Directory of Everything, Walks & rides, With the young
Pukerua Bay
Less than one hour
Ride south from Paekākāriki on the footpath edged between State Highway 59 and the rocky coast. Spot the Escarpment walkers high above, or even an orca if you're lucky. Stop at Pukerua Bay lookout to admire the huge views. You may see Taranaki or Ruapehu in the far distance.
Filed Under: Ride nearby, A-Z, Directory of Everything, Walks & rides, With the young
Whareroa Farm
1-2 hours
This is a spectacular mountain bike ride from the base of Whareroa Farm, with fantastic views down the valley and out to sea. An easy winding uphill is followed by an intermediate downhill track - the single-track twists, bends and bumps will keep you focused. Great for older kid
Filed Under: Ride nearby, A-Z, Directory of Everything, With the young
Queen Elizabeth Park
Less than one hour
A wonderful bike trail to Whareroa Beach and back for families and those wanting a scenic, sand-dune burst, ideal for those starting out mountain biking, offering coastal views and countless places to rest, play, picnic or swim.
Filed Under: Ride nearby, At the beach, A-Z, Directory of Everything, Walks & rides, With dogs, With the young
Queen Elizabeth Park
Less than one hour
One of the best family-friendly biking opportunities in the Wellington region. Te Ara o Whareroa is a mainly-flat 6km sealed track on the inland side of the coastal sand dunes in Queen Elizabeth Park. It’s popular with all ages, from students biking to school in Raumati to older
Filed Under: Ride nearby, A-Z, Directory of Everything, Walks & rides, With dogs, With the young
Paekākāriki Village
Less than one hour
A leisurely bike ride along the village’s streets. Enjoy the views from high points at each end of the village, including the Memorial Lookout and Ames St Reserve.
Filed Under: Ride nearby, A-Z, Walks & rides, With the young
Paekākāriki Village
less than one hour
Are you looking for a magical stroll? It’s worth taking a gentle wander around the village's Letterbox Art Walk to view some spectacular creations by a sample of Paekākāriki's artistic residents.
Filed Under: Walk nearby, A-Z, Walks & rides, With dogs, With the young
We are the home of The Barefoot Learner, where belonging, connecting, exploring and thriving are our valued guiding principles. Paekākāriki locals and visitors alike are welcomed here to share in our community spirit.
Filed Under: A-Z, Education, Schools & playgroups, With the young
20 Wellington Rd
Paekākāriki
Paekākāriki
Mon, Tues: 9am-12.30pm
Fri: 9am-12.30pm (bilingual session)
Fri: 9am-12.30pm (bilingual session)
027 880 2745
Paekākāriki Playcentre provides three sessions a week: Mon, Tues, & Friday where the focus is on child-initiated play, whānau and community. Ages birth to 6 years. Pop in and visit us!
Filed Under: A-Z, Clubs & groups, Schools & playgroups, With the young
By appointment
We recycle bikes and lend them out for a small annual fee. Our focus is sustainable transport. We have bikes of all sizes available.
Currently operating a limited service from homes, due to St Peter's Hall basement being closed. Please do not leave bikes there.
Currently operating a limited service from homes, due to St Peter's Hall basement being closed. Please do not leave bikes there.
Filed Under: A-Z, Clubs & groups, Lending libraries, Local Services, Sports & recreation, With the young