Out & AboutThere is so much to do and so many great places to visit within Porirua and in the greater Wellington region. So why don't you check out one of the below on the next fine day we get?!
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Battle Hill Farm Park, Pauatahanui
608 Paekakariki Hill Rd, Pauatahanui
The park is open daily from 8am. Much of the park is closed from August to October for lambing, although some key tracks remain open. Contact the park ranger for more information.
A great place to take the kids for a picnic in Summer. There are bush walks, streams, large fields andfarm animals to visit. There are toilets and a fresh water tap on site.
The sheltered and tree lined front paddocks offer great camping sites, with a shallow stream and beautiful bush remnant close by. Email battlehillranger@gw.govt.nz or phone 04 237 5511 to check availability and book your site. You must register and pay your fees prior to setting up your campsite. You are welcome to bring your own portable gas barbecue. Camping fees are $5/ adult; $2/ child per night. Information copied from Greater Wellington REgional Council website)
The park is open daily from 8am. Much of the park is closed from August to October for lambing, although some key tracks remain open. Contact the park ranger for more information.
A great place to take the kids for a picnic in Summer. There are bush walks, streams, large fields andfarm animals to visit. There are toilets and a fresh water tap on site.
The sheltered and tree lined front paddocks offer great camping sites, with a shallow stream and beautiful bush remnant close by. Email battlehillranger@gw.govt.nz or phone 04 237 5511 to check availability and book your site. You must register and pay your fees prior to setting up your campsite. You are welcome to bring your own portable gas barbecue. Camping fees are $5/ adult; $2/ child per night. Information copied from Greater Wellington REgional Council website)
Sport Wellington Buggy Walks
"The Buggy Walk’s are a free event occurring on the first Thursday of each month. The walks take place at parks and tracks around the greater Wellington Region, on buggy friendly tracks, at a different location each month. They are aimed at parents, caregivers or grandparents with children under five years of age. Participants are encouraged to bring their family and friends along. The Buggy Walks are organised by Greater Wellington Regional Council and Sport Wellington, they have been held monthly in the Wellington Region since late 2006. All the walks start at 10.30am, we encourage participants to arrive and meet at 10.15am. There is no need to register, just turn up on the day and take part. Free coffee is provided for participants, before and after the walk by our wonderful sponsors Caffe L’affare. The walks take approximately 45mins to 1 hour depending on the track and fitness levels." (Information copied from website)
Check the website or facebook page for the location of the next buggy walk!
Check the website or facebook page for the location of the next buggy walk!
Imagination Doors Fairy Hunt
The very creative people behind Imagination Doors (beautifully handmade fairy doors to install in the home or outside) have installed fairy doors all around Titahi Bay for your little people to find! Your children will delight in the magic of looking for fairies. Don't forget to take your camera in case they catch a glimpse of shiny wings!
Print off the Imagination Doors Map. This is your key to finding the doors. You may also want to take a look at the Imagination Doors Google Map as it has a little more detail as to where the doors are.
Make sure you check out the Imagination Doors Website where you can take a look in the workshop and even purchase or commission your own fairy doors!
Print off the Imagination Doors Map. This is your key to finding the doors. You may also want to take a look at the Imagination Doors Google Map as it has a little more detail as to where the doors are.
Make sure you check out the Imagination Doors Website where you can take a look in the workshop and even purchase or commission your own fairy doors!
Staglands Wildlife Reserve, Upper Hutt
Akatarawa Valley, RD2, Upper Hutt
(04) 526 7529
Website & Facebook Page
- Wildlife Park - open every day 9:30am – 5.00pm (Except Christmas Day)
- Staglands Café is open every day from 10:00am – 4:30pm. Open on public holidays (Except Christmas Day)
- Adult $22 / Children (4-16yr) $11 / 3 years and under FREE / Senior citizens & Students $17 / Family pass $66 (2 adults and 3 children).
Staglands Wildlife Reserve & Cafe offers a unique and fun experience for people of all ages to feed and freely interact with birds and animals in an environment that has been created with nature’s materials. Staglands is a beautiful tourist attraction and is the product of one man’s passion and vision to experience nature at its best and is a real ‘hidden treasure’, as it is located in the beautiful Akatarawa Valley in Upper Hutt. (Information copied from Staglands website)
(04) 526 7529
Website & Facebook Page
- Wildlife Park - open every day 9:30am – 5.00pm (Except Christmas Day)
- Staglands Café is open every day from 10:00am – 4:30pm. Open on public holidays (Except Christmas Day)
- Adult $22 / Children (4-16yr) $11 / 3 years and under FREE / Senior citizens & Students $17 / Family pass $66 (2 adults and 3 children).
Staglands Wildlife Reserve & Cafe offers a unique and fun experience for people of all ages to feed and freely interact with birds and animals in an environment that has been created with nature’s materials. Staglands is a beautiful tourist attraction and is the product of one man’s passion and vision to experience nature at its best and is a real ‘hidden treasure’, as it is located in the beautiful Akatarawa Valley in Upper Hutt. (Information copied from Staglands website)
Pirates Cove Mini Golf, Porirua
2 Wi Neera Dr, Elsdon, Porirua
(04) 237 6809
Website
- Adult $12.00 / Tertiary student $10 / School student (with ID) $9.00 / 4 years and under $1.50 per year /
- Family Pass: 2 Adults and 2 Children $35.00 / 1 Adult and 3 Children $35.00 / (Pre-schoolers $1.50 per each year of age)
- Summer Hours – October to April: Mon – Sun 9am – 8pm (Weather Permitting)
- Winter Hours – May to September: Mon - Fri 10am – 5pm / Sat - Sun 9am – 5pm (Weather Permitting)
A pirate themed mini golf course. It is the original Adventure Golf’s aim to provide high fun, low risk miniumum skill, adventure styled family entertainment and providing true great value entertainment in an environment that is safe, welcoming and accessible to all.
(04) 237 6809
Website
- Adult $12.00 / Tertiary student $10 / School student (with ID) $9.00 / 4 years and under $1.50 per year /
- Family Pass: 2 Adults and 2 Children $35.00 / 1 Adult and 3 Children $35.00 / (Pre-schoolers $1.50 per each year of age)
- Summer Hours – October to April: Mon – Sun 9am – 8pm (Weather Permitting)
- Winter Hours – May to September: Mon - Fri 10am – 5pm / Sat - Sun 9am – 5pm (Weather Permitting)
A pirate themed mini golf course. It is the original Adventure Golf’s aim to provide high fun, low risk miniumum skill, adventure styled family entertainment and providing true great value entertainment in an environment that is safe, welcoming and accessible to all.
Zealandia Eco-Sanctuary, Karori
Karori - see the website for info on how to get there
Website & Facebook Page
- Open daily 10am-5pm
- Ticket Pricing: Under 5's are FREE, Adults $28.50 for admission to both the Exhibition & Sanctuary Valley. More info here.
"Just 10 minutes from central Wellington, ZEALANDIA is a unique eco-attraction. New Zealand's incredible natural history and our world-renowned conservation movement are brought to life with a state-of-the-art indoor exhibition. Then step through our predator-proof fence into our beautiful 225ha (550 acre) eco-sanctuary for your best opportunity to see some of New Zealand's rarest birds, reptiles and insects in the wild."
Website & Facebook Page
- Open daily 10am-5pm
- Ticket Pricing: Under 5's are FREE, Adults $28.50 for admission to both the Exhibition & Sanctuary Valley. More info here.
"Just 10 minutes from central Wellington, ZEALANDIA is a unique eco-attraction. New Zealand's incredible natural history and our world-renowned conservation movement are brought to life with a state-of-the-art indoor exhibition. Then step through our predator-proof fence into our beautiful 225ha (550 acre) eco-sanctuary for your best opportunity to see some of New Zealand's rarest birds, reptiles and insects in the wild."
Buggies Go Bush @ Zealandia
Buggies Go Bush Every Wednesday at 10.30am. No need to book
These special Wednesday morning walks for new mums & dads are a great way to stretch your legs and meet new friends. With our new Buggy Walk Wednesdays, finding your 'sanctuary in the city' is now easier and more affordable than ever. ZEALANDIA provides the perfect buggy-friendly, safe walking environment with a chance to see and hear some of NZ's rarest wildlife.
Get a quick low-down on what's out and about from one of the ZEALANDIA team. Then pick up a map and head off at your own pace. It's a great way to meet like-minded people, and you can stay as little or as long as you like! Finish up with a well-earned coffee at Rata cafe.
Want something else to do with the littlies? Check out the FREE storytelling on Toddler Tuesdays!
These special Wednesday morning walks for new mums & dads are a great way to stretch your legs and meet new friends. With our new Buggy Walk Wednesdays, finding your 'sanctuary in the city' is now easier and more affordable than ever. ZEALANDIA provides the perfect buggy-friendly, safe walking environment with a chance to see and hear some of NZ's rarest wildlife.
Get a quick low-down on what's out and about from one of the ZEALANDIA team. Then pick up a map and head off at your own pace. It's a great way to meet like-minded people, and you can stay as little or as long as you like! Finish up with a well-earned coffee at Rata cafe.
- When: Every Wednesday at 10.30am. No need to book.
- Where: Meet at the Admissions Desk on Level 1.
- Cost: $10 (includes admission). Under-fives and members FREE!
Want something else to do with the littlies? Check out the FREE storytelling on Toddler Tuesdays!
Porirua's Beaches
Porirua has so many fantastic beaches on offer. They’re not over-populated like others in the greater Wellington region and each has its own attractions.
Here are just a few...
Plimmerton Beach is fantastic for riding bikes at low tide and with several great food outlets within a minute’s walk; this is an ideal, impromptu picnic spot. Just make sure you check the tide charts online before you head down!
Pukerua Bay Beach has that “secret spot” feel about it. It is serene and secluded. My little man loves looking for the “fishies” and “cwabs” in the crystal clear water. The shallow rock pools are perfect for little kids to explore and learn about our marine environment.
Another beautiful, hidden beach spot is Whitireia Reserve’s beach. This can be accessed by boat, kayak or road. The road is well signposted through Titahi Bay. You’ll enjoy the breathtaking (somewhat scary!) views as you navigate over the hill road and soon find yourself in a slice of kiwi paradise. The area has a stretch of golden sand, grassy reserve land and a car park shaded by trees to keep the car cool. Make sure you take a roll of toilet paper for the public toilets, just in case!
We are lucky to have such beautiful beaches so close to home. So make sure you get out and explore them, making the most of what summer we still have left. Don’t forget the sun block, a sun-shade or large umbrella, some yummy picnic snacks and plenty of water to keep everyone hydrated and cool in the sun. And do pick up your rubbish before departing. Let’s keep Porirua’s beaches clean and safe for other families to enjoy.
Here are just a few...
Plimmerton Beach is fantastic for riding bikes at low tide and with several great food outlets within a minute’s walk; this is an ideal, impromptu picnic spot. Just make sure you check the tide charts online before you head down!
Pukerua Bay Beach has that “secret spot” feel about it. It is serene and secluded. My little man loves looking for the “fishies” and “cwabs” in the crystal clear water. The shallow rock pools are perfect for little kids to explore and learn about our marine environment.
Another beautiful, hidden beach spot is Whitireia Reserve’s beach. This can be accessed by boat, kayak or road. The road is well signposted through Titahi Bay. You’ll enjoy the breathtaking (somewhat scary!) views as you navigate over the hill road and soon find yourself in a slice of kiwi paradise. The area has a stretch of golden sand, grassy reserve land and a car park shaded by trees to keep the car cool. Make sure you take a roll of toilet paper for the public toilets, just in case!
We are lucky to have such beautiful beaches so close to home. So make sure you get out and explore them, making the most of what summer we still have left. Don’t forget the sun block, a sun-shade or large umbrella, some yummy picnic snacks and plenty of water to keep everyone hydrated and cool in the sun. And do pick up your rubbish before departing. Let’s keep Porirua’s beaches clean and safe for other families to enjoy.
Wellington Zoo
200 Daniell Street, Newtown
Open every day except Christmas Day, from 9.30am – 5.00pm (last entry 4.15pm).
Website & Facebook Page
- Zoo Entry Prices: Adult $20.00 / Child 3-14 years of age: $10.00 / Under 3 free / Family of 1 adult & up to 3 children $39.00 / Family of 2 adults & up to 3 children $59.00
"Wellington Zoo is home to more than 500 animals (and over 100 species). New Zealand’s first Zoo we sit on 13 hectares in Wellington city’s green town belt. " The Zoo has a variety of animal talks and public animal feeding times so make sure you find out what's on and when before you go! *You can hire a pushchair when you visit the Zoo $10 hire, $10 deposit (refunded when you return the pushchair).
Open every day except Christmas Day, from 9.30am – 5.00pm (last entry 4.15pm).
Website & Facebook Page
- Zoo Entry Prices: Adult $20.00 / Child 3-14 years of age: $10.00 / Under 3 free / Family of 1 adult & up to 3 children $39.00 / Family of 2 adults & up to 3 children $59.00
"Wellington Zoo is home to more than 500 animals (and over 100 species). New Zealand’s first Zoo we sit on 13 hectares in Wellington city’s green town belt. " The Zoo has a variety of animal talks and public animal feeding times so make sure you find out what's on and when before you go! *You can hire a pushchair when you visit the Zoo $10 hire, $10 deposit (refunded when you return the pushchair).
Island Bay Marine Centre Open Days
Website and Facebook Page
OPEN every Sunday in Summer until the end of April, 10am to 3pm
$2 per person.
If you haven't been it is supposed to be a great experience for little ones, getting close up and even hands on with some of the amazing creatures that can be found in our very own Cook Strait, such as starfish, mussels, crabs, anemones and sea urchins! "The "touch gently" tank is a major attraction, entrancing all ages with its amazing display of south coast marine animals. This is a great family experience for you and all of your friends!"
OPEN every Sunday in Summer until the end of April, 10am to 3pm
$2 per person.
If you haven't been it is supposed to be a great experience for little ones, getting close up and even hands on with some of the amazing creatures that can be found in our very own Cook Strait, such as starfish, mussels, crabs, anemones and sea urchins! "The "touch gently" tank is a major attraction, entrancing all ages with its amazing display of south coast marine animals. This is a great family experience for you and all of your friends!"
Nga Manu Nature Reserve
Website
Ngaraara Rd, Waikanae, Kapiti Coast
- Open 10am-4pm every day of the year, except Christmas Day
- Prices: Adults $15.00 / Children under 15 $6.00 / Family (Max 2 adults and the children of that family) $35.00
"Nga Manu Nature Reserve offers you a unique opportunity to have a hands on experience related to the natural history of New Zealand. By visiting the Reserve you will gain an understanding of the ecosystems by using examples of plants and animals that can be observed within the different habitats that make up the Reserves ecosystems. The reserve offers you an opportunity to see a diverse range of our native flora and fauna in just one visit. Most visitors would spend approximately 1.5 hours at the reserve. All pathways are easily walked and there's adequate seating around the reserve. Wheelchair access and facilities are avaliable. An on site wheelchair is available for visitor use." (Information from website)
Make sure you get there in time for the eel feeding at 2pm!
Ngaraara Rd, Waikanae, Kapiti Coast
- Open 10am-4pm every day of the year, except Christmas Day
- Prices: Adults $15.00 / Children under 15 $6.00 / Family (Max 2 adults and the children of that family) $35.00
"Nga Manu Nature Reserve offers you a unique opportunity to have a hands on experience related to the natural history of New Zealand. By visiting the Reserve you will gain an understanding of the ecosystems by using examples of plants and animals that can be observed within the different habitats that make up the Reserves ecosystems. The reserve offers you an opportunity to see a diverse range of our native flora and fauna in just one visit. Most visitors would spend approximately 1.5 hours at the reserve. All pathways are easily walked and there's adequate seating around the reserve. Wheelchair access and facilities are avaliable. An on site wheelchair is available for visitor use." (Information from website)
Make sure you get there in time for the eel feeding at 2pm!
Carter Observatory
Website and Facebook Page
40 Salamanca Road, Kelburn, Wellington (At the top of the Botanical Gardens/Cable Car)
"Take a virtual journey through space in Carter's new planetarium - a state-of-the-art full-dome digital theatre, then take your own steps through space as you walk through the world-class interactive multimedia space experience.
Discover our Universe, along with some of New Zealand's most prestigious telescopes and astronomical artefacts. Before and after you visit we encourage you to download the latest sky chart to spot the stars.
Carter is open 7 days a week from 10am until 5pm, with late night stargazing every Tuesday and Saturday (weather-permitting!). Times, prices, maps and essential information can be found here. Book online here." (Information copied from website)
40 Salamanca Road, Kelburn, Wellington (At the top of the Botanical Gardens/Cable Car)
"Take a virtual journey through space in Carter's new planetarium - a state-of-the-art full-dome digital theatre, then take your own steps through space as you walk through the world-class interactive multimedia space experience.
Discover our Universe, along with some of New Zealand's most prestigious telescopes and astronomical artefacts. Before and after you visit we encourage you to download the latest sky chart to spot the stars.
Carter is open 7 days a week from 10am until 5pm, with late night stargazing every Tuesday and Saturday (weather-permitting!). Times, prices, maps and essential information can be found here. Book online here." (Information copied from website)
