Kapiti has some fantastic cycleways across the district, many of them are just as good for commuting as they are for leisure rides. The expressway trail can get you from Raumati South to Peka Peka entirely off road, it is fully sealed so is suitable for road bikes. Queen Elisabeth Park (QE2) has a network of sealed and gravel paths that provide a commuter’s connection to Paekākāriki as well as family-friendly recreational riding. The QE2 network connects to Whareroa Farm where you can explore a range of mountain bike trails in the hills. Use the Ōtaki river trail to get from town to the beach (off-road) and enjoy the peace and beauty of the awa (river) on your journey.
There is something for everyone's riding style and ability on the Kāpiti Coast. Check out our map for more.
Queen Elisabeth Park is perfect for new riders with wide paths and very few road intersections to cross. There are paved or gravel options and plenty of spaces to stop for a picnic or to enjoy the view. Enjoy a relaxed ride through the meandering trails.
Greater Wellington Regional Council — Queen Elizabeth Park (gw.govt.nz)
Bikes and e-bikes can be rented from several retailers in Kapiti follow the links below for more details.
There are also two bike providers that supply upcycled and repaired bikes to those who might find price a barrier. These are:
Paekākāriki bike Library receives donated bikes and then fixes them up before lending them out. They work on a subscription model lending out bikes one year at a time for an annual fee of between $20-$40. If you grow out of your bike and need to change this can be done at any time. Find out more through this link.
Ōtaki Bike Space receives donated bikes and fixes them up before giving them away for free to those who would otherwise not be able to purchase them. Find out more through this link.
The Waikanae Beach to Peka Peka Loop (Waikanae Beach via Peka Peka) is a great 14 km ride that has a mix of on and off-road riding. It Is reasonably flat with some nice straight stretches of road to really get the legs pumping. Many people stop for a coffee at the Harrisons Country Gardenworld when doing this loop.
Check out this map and use the instructions below to plan your ride. It is possible to start this loop from many locations however, one recommended way is to park at the beach and follow Kāpiti Coastal Cycle Route north to Peka Peka. Join the Kāpiti Cycle Route – Expressway south then follow Te Moana Rd and Rauparaha St back to Waikanae Beach. Links to the Waikanae River Loop. Take care on Paetawa and Peka Peka Rd where the footpath ends.
