Kapiti Island

Kapiti Island is an island nature reserve off the southwestern coast of New Zealand’s North Island, in the Kāpiti Coast region. It is internationally known within New Zealand as a pest-free wildlife sanctuary focused on the conservation and recovery of native bird species.

The island supports restored native forest and seabird colonies and has been the site of pest eradication and ongoing species recovery programs. Visits are regulated; public access typically requires a return trip with a licensed operator or authorised conservation visit, and some areas remain restricted for breeding or scientific work.

Kapiti Island has been managed as a conservation area to protect native flora and fauna and to maintain habitats for endangered species. Over decades restoration work has allowed populations of several native birds to recover and re-establish on the island.

Geographically the island lies in the Tasman Sea about 5 kilometres off the Kāpiti Coast near the towns of Paraparaumu and Waikanae, and approximately 30 kilometres by road and sea from central Wellington.

• Access and conservation: Managed as a nature reserve and important bird sanctuary, public access is restricted to guided tours and licensed operators to protect wildlife.
• Proximity to Wellington: Located about 5 kilometres off the Kāpiti Coast near Paraparaumu and Waikanae, it lies roughly 30 kilometres north of central Wellington by road and sea.