Paraparaumu - Discovering New Zealand

Travelling to Paraparaumu

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Paraparaumu, a pretty good destination in New Zealand (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Paraparaumu and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Paraparaumu, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through New Zealand, here's everything to know about Paraparaumu for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Paraparaumu

Paraparaumu is a town on the Kapiti Coast of New Zealand's North Island. It is located approximately 50 km north of Wellington, the capital city of New Zealand. Paraparaumu is known for its relaxed coastal lifestyle, beautiful beaches, and scenic natural attractions. The town has a variety of restaurants, cafes, and boutique shops, as well as a popular Saturday market. It is also home to Kapiti Coast Airport, which provides flights to various destinations within New Zealand.

What to visit in Paraparaumu

Sure, here are some of the top tourist attractions in Paraparaumu, New Zealand: 1. Southward Car Museum - A fascinating museum with a large collection of rare and vintage cars, motorcycles, and other vintage vehicles. It also boasts a 21-metre long homemade fire engine that is Guinness World Record holder.
2. Kapiti Island Nature Reserve - A wildlife sanctuary that houses rare and endangered species of birds and animals such as kākā, kiwi, weka, and little spotted kiwi. Visitors can stay overnight in designated accommodations to fully experience the sanctuary.
3. Paraparaumu Beach - A popular beach destination for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing. It has beautiful views of Kapiti Island and has many cafes and restaurants nearby.
4. Nga Manu Nature Reserve - Another bird and wildlife sanctuary in Paraparaumu which also offers nature trails and guided tours.
5. Paraparaumu Golf Course - A beautiful golf course with stunning scenery and challenging terrain. It has been ranked among the top 100 courses in the world.
6. Ōtaki Gorge - A picturesque river gorge located just a few kilometers from Paraparaumu. It offers great hiking trails and scenic views.
7. Kohekohe Church - A historic church built in 1853 by Māori and European settlers in the region. It is a well-preserved example of early New Zealand architecture.
These are just some of the most popular tourist attractions in Paraparaumu, New Zealand. Visitors can explore the local shops, markets, and restaurants to experience the city's charm.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in New Zealand, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Paraparaumu

The best time to go on holiday to Paraparaumu depends on what you want to do. Paraparaumu has a temperate climate with warm summers (December to February) and cool winters (June to August). If you enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, beachcombing and exploring nature reserves, the best time to visit is during the summer months between December and February. During these months you can enjoy the warm temperatures, long days and clear skies.
If you prefer to avoid the crowds and enjoy a quieter holiday, the best time to visit is during the shoulder seasons of autumn (March to May) and spring (September to November). You'll still experience mild temperatures and can enjoy outdoor activities, but with fewer tourists around.
Overall, the best time to go on holiday to Paraparaumu is between November and March, when the weather is the most comfortable and there are many outdoor activities to enjoy.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Paraparaumu

The best way to get to Paraparaumu, New Zealand is by air or train. If you are traveling by air, you can fly to Wellington International Airport which is the closest airport to Paraparaumu. From there, you can take a shuttle bus or taxi to get to Paraparaumu. The journey by road takes around 1 hour.
Alternatively, you can take a train from Wellington to the Paraparaumu station, which is located in the center of town. The train ride takes approximately 45 minutes, and trains run regularly throughout the day. Once you arrive in Paraparaumu, you can easily explore the town's beautiful beaches and attractions by rental car, bus, or on foot.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Paraparaumu, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Paraparaumu

Paraparaumu is a town located in the Kapiti Coast District of New Zealand. Here are some typical foods from the Paraparaumu region: 1. Kapiti Cheeses: This region is famous for its award-winning cheeses which include cheddars, bries, blues, and goats' cheeses.
2. Kiwi fruit: New Zealand is known for its production of kiwi fruit, and Paraparaumu is no exception. They are sweet and the flesh has a bright green color with black seeds.
3. Seafood: Being located on the coastline, fresh seafood is abundant in Paraparaumu. You can find fresh fish, mussels and oysters.
4. Meat pies: Meat pies are a classic dish in New Zealand and they are commonly found in bakeries and cafes.
5. Hokey Pokey Ice Cream: A locally made vanilla ice cream with added chunks of sweet toffee.
6. Kumara: It's a type of sweet potato that commonly used in dishes like soups, stews, and salads.
7. Paua: It is one of the delicacies from the sea and is a type of abalone. It is sold fresh, as frozen meat, canned or in cooked dishes.
8. Jaffas: Small round chocolate candies with an orange coating. They are popular with locals and tourists alike.
These are just a few of the traditional foods which represent Paraparaumu and the Kapiti Coast.
You can find general info about typical foods in New Zealand here.

Is Paraparaumu an expensive destination for tourists?

Paraparaumu, located on the Kapiti Coast in New Zealand, can be considered a bit pricey for tourists compared to other destinations in the country. However, the cost of your trip will depend on various factors such as the time of year you visit, the activities you plan to do, and your travel style.
Accommodation in Paraparaumu can range from budget-friendly options such as hostels and motels to high-end luxury resorts. Food and drinks are also reasonably priced, with local restaurants and cafes offering a range of options.
On the other hand, some activities like golfing or exploring local wildlife reserves may involve relatively higher costs. Additionally, transportation costs including flights and rental cars may also add to the overall expenses.
Overall, while Paraparaumu may not be the cheapest destination, it's definitely worth visiting for its stunning beaches, natural reserves, and cultural richness. Planning ahead and researching the best deals can help you save money while making the most of your trip.

Where to find accomodation in Paraparaumu

In Paraparaumu, the best areas to find accommodations are: 1. The beachfront area: This is a fantastic location for beach lovers and those who want to stay close to the sea. The beachfront area offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses.
2. The town center: This area is perfect for those who want to be close to the town's attractions, such as cafes, shops, and restaurants. The town center has a variety of accommodations ranging from hotels to apartments.
3. The outskirts of Paraparaumu: If you prefer a quieter and more rural setting, then the outskirts of Paraparaumu might be the best choice. You can find a range of accommodations like bed and breakfasts and farm stays, which offer peaceful surroundings and stunning views of the countryside.
You can check hotel prices at Paraparaumu here:
Booking.com

Is Paraparaumu a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Paraparaumu in New Zealand is considered a safe place for tourists to visit. The crime rate is generally low and there are dedicated police services to ensure the safety of visitors. However, as with any travel destination, it is important to take common sense precautions such as keeping an eye on personal belongings, avoiding dimly lit or secluded areas at night, and staying alert to any potential safety concerns. It is also recommended to research and follow local customs and laws to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in New Zealand here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Paraparaumu.

What type of travelers will enjoy Paraparaumu the most?

Paraparaumu is a charming coastal town on the Kapiti Coast of New Zealand. It caters to all types of travelers and offers a variety of activities suitable for couples, young people looking for fun, and families.
Couples can enjoy the beautiful beaches, romantic walks, and stunning sunsets. They can also visit some of the local wineries or enjoy a spa treatment at one of the nearby resorts.
Young people looking for fun can take advantage of the excellent surfing spots in Paraparaumu, explore the town's lively nightlife, and enjoy the local cuisine in the numerous restaurants and bars.
Families can have a great time here too, with various family-friendly activities available such as visiting the Southward Car Museum, exploring the Nga Manu Nature Reserve, or enjoying a picnic at the many parks and gardens in the area.
Overall, Paraparaumu is a wonderful destination that offers something for everyone, regardless of their age or interests.

How to get around Paraparaumu

To move around in Paraparaumu, you can use buses, taxis, rental cars, bicycles, and walk. The local bus network is reliable and affordable, providing connections to nearby towns and cities. Taxis are also available, but they are generally more expensive than buses. Car rental is a great option if you want to explore the surrounding areas of Paraparaumu, and several car rental companies operate in the area. Bicycles are a popular mode of transportation in Paraparaumu, and there are several bike rental companies providing different options. Walking is also an excellent option for exploring the town center and nearby areas, as the roads are well-paved and pedestrian-friendly.

What to see around Paraparaumu

Certainly! Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Paraparaumu, New Zealand: 1. Kapiti Island: This island is a nature reserve and a must-visit for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts.
2. Otaki Gorge: This scenic location is great for hiking, picnicking, and other outdoor activities.
3. Manawatu Gorge: Another beautiful location for hiking and exploring nature.
4. Wellington: Just an hour drive from Paraparaumu, the capital city of New Zealand offers a lot of options for sightseeing, shopping, and dining.
5. Palliser Bay: Located about 2 hours from Paraparaumu, this location offers stunning views of the coastline, lighthouse, and fur seal colony.
6. Te Horo Beach: This beach is great for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing.
7. Levin Adventure Park: An adventure park offering activities like go-karting, paintball, archery, and more.
8. Southward Car Museum: A museum displaying classic cars and other automobiles.
I hope this list helps you plan your day trips from Paraparaumu!
For every travel information about New Zealand you can click here.

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