Paekakariki

This sleepy seaside village is the southern gateway to the Kapiti Coast, and is very easily accessible from Wellington. The lovely beachfront, a few shops and restaurants and accommodation are all within walking distance of the train station. There’s a laid-back, arts-oriented, sort of hippy vibe here and it makes a great day trip or place to chill out for a little while. There are a couple of nice parks in Paekakariki as well.