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Ferry Map & Routes to Kapiti Island

Getting a ferry to Kapiti Island takes about 15-20 minutes from the beaches of Paraparaumu. Kapiti Island Nature Tours and Kapiti Island Eco Experience are the largest operators, helping to guide the limited 160 visitors allowed on the island each day. Since it is a protected nature reserve, cars are not permitted, and you might be asked to check your bags for pests before getting on the boat. Checking the ferry map above shows how close this special trip is to those travelling to Wellington.

From Wellington Region to Kapiti Island

Paraparaumu Beach ↔ Kapiti Island

Kapiti Island Tours · 20m

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The Nature Sanctuary: Ferry map to Kapiti Island

Kapiti Island is a heavily protected bird sanctuary sitting off the west coast of New Zealand’s North Island. The largest ferry operators in the region include Kapiti Island Nature Tours and Kapiti Explorer. Because it is a strict nature reserve, the government limits the number of people who can visit each day to protect the wildlife.

Mainland Departure	Island Arrival Point	Travel Time
Paraparaumu Beach	Rangatira Point	15 to 20 minutes (The middle of the island with the most popular hiking trails).
Paraparaumu Beach	North End (Okupe)	25 minutes (A quieter spot featuring a beautiful lagoon walk).

Here are 3 tips for getting to Kapiti Island by ferry:

1. You need a permit: You cannot just buy a boat ticket. You also need a Department of Conservation (DOC) permit to step on the island. The ferry companies usually bundle this into your ticket price when you book online.
2. The bag check: Before you board the boat, your bags and shoes will be checked for pests, dirt, and seeds. This keeps rats and invasive plants away from the rare birds.
3. Pack your own lunch: There are no shops, cafes, or trash cans on Kapiti Island. You must bring all your own food and water, and you must carry all your trash back on the ferry with you.

⚠️ Wet feet warning
There is no deep water dock at Paraparaumu Beach. The ferry is pushed into the water by a large tractor. To get on the boat, you walk down a ramp right on the sandy beach. Wear shoes that can handle getting a little bit wet from the small waves.

“Book your trip months in advance if you want to go in December or January. The daily visitor limit means summer ferry tickets sell out completely. Once you are on the island, listen closely to the guide’s safety briefing, as they will tell you exactly what time the afternoon boat leaves.”