Queen Elizabeth Park on the Kāpiti Coast is a 650-hectare regional park stretching between Paekākāriki and Raumati South, managed by Greater Wellington Regional Council. The park sits between State Highway 1 and a long sandy beach on the Tasman Sea, protecting the last area of natural dunes on the Kāpiti Coast. It offers walking, cycling, horse riding, picnicking, swimming, a campground, a restored wetland and the historic Wellington Tramway Museum — a working tram that carries visitors to the beach on weekends and public holidays.
Practical Information
| Location | Between Paekākāriki and Raumati South, Kāpiti Coast — main entrance at Mackays Crossing |
|---|---|
| Other entrances | Raumati South; Paekākāriki |
| Entry | Free (park); tram ride charges apply |
| Activities | Walking, cycling, horse riding, swimming, picnicking, bird watching |
| Tram museum | Wellington Tramway Museum — operates weekends and public holidays |
| Campground | Yes — available at the park |
| Facilities | Visitor centre, toilets, picnic areas, BBQ spots, car parks |
| Managed by | Greater Wellington Regional Council |
About Queen Elizabeth Park
Queen Elizabeth Park is one of the most accessible large open spaces in the greater Wellington region. Its flat, easy terrain makes it suitable for all ages and abilities, and the combination of bush, wetland, dune and beach environments in a single park gives it an ecological variety uncommon in coastal parks. The park protects the last natural dune system on the Kāpiti Coast, an environment that supports a range of native plants and birds.
A restored wetland within the park filters water and provides habitat for wetland birds. Walking and cycling tracks run through the park and along the coast. Horse riding is permitted in designated areas, and the beach provides swimming, fishing and general coastal enjoyment.
Wellington Tramway Museum
The Wellington Tramway Museum operates within the park on weekends and public holidays, running a historic tram ride from the main entrance area to the beach. The tram is a working piece of Wellington’s transport history and the ride itself — through the dunes to the sea — is a memorable experience, particularly for children. The museum collection includes historic trams and associated transport artefacts.
Greater Wellington Regional Council — Queen Elizabeth Park has current information on facilities, access and activities. Wikipedia — Queen Elizabeth Park, Kāpiti Coast covers the park’s history and features.
FAQ
Where is Queen Elizabeth Park?
The park stretches between Paekākāriki and Raumati South on the Kāpiti Coast. The main entrance is at Mackays Crossing. It is approximately 50 kilometres north of Wellington city centre.
Is Queen Elizabeth Park free?
Yes — the park is free to enter. The Wellington Tramway Museum tram ride has a charge.
Can I take a tram to the beach?
Yes — the Wellington Tramway Museum runs a historic tram from the park entrance to the beach on weekends and public holidays.
Can I camp at Queen Elizabeth Park?
Yes — the park has a campground.
Is horse riding allowed at Queen Elizabeth Park?
Yes — horse riding is permitted in designated areas of the park.
Browse all Wellington region playgrounds and parks at Playgrounds in Wellington and Wellington Parks and Reserves.