This is a beautiful bush walk, with sweeping views. Hemi Matenga Scenic Reserve is accessed from Tui Crescent, on the hill side of Waikanae, where there is a small parking area.
The reserve is the sloping, native bush-covered stretch of land that you can see from the car or train, with a few winding streets leading up to the lower slopes. Hemi Matenga Track is also known as Te Au Track. Three different-sized walks are on offer.
Waikanae Estuary Scientific Reserve is connected to the Kapiti Marine Reserve and to Kapiti Island Nature Reserve, providing a rare sequence of protection for animals which move between sea, river and land habitats.
This nationally-significant reserve protects a natural mosaic of freshwater lakelets, saltwater lagoons and marshes, tidal sand flats and sandy beach at the mouth of the Waikanae River.
The Mahara Gallery is the district public gallery for the Kāpiti Coast. It was founded by artists and volunteers as a charitable trust in 1996. Its governance is the responsibility of a Board of Trustees. Currently there are six trustees, one appointed by Kāpiti Coast District Council.
The gallery operates out of the original Waikanae library building, provided by the Kāpiti Coast District Council. It receives some private financial support as well as funding from the Council to cover operational costs. The exhibition programme balances quality local and national content, works in partnership with local iwi and reflects the diversity of the Kāpiti arts community.
The purpose of the Kapiti Coast Museum is to collect, preserve, display and give access to the public material and information relating to the natural, social and cultural heritage of the Kapiti Coast District. They recognise all cultures in the community while acknowledging the special place of Taonga Maori.
Waikanae Golf Club are 18 hole course about 50 minutes drive north of Wellington. Waikanae Golf Club warmly welcome both casual players and new members onto the course. The Waikanae Golf Course is a beautiful course that is enjoyable to play but still offers plenty of challenge for the keen golfer. Waikanae Golf Club has been the host to several National Events including qualifying for the New Zealand Open, the National Women’s Stroke Play and the National Women’s Under 19 Championships.
