Paraparaumu: Aviation History, Trails and Memorials

A 14-metre-high statue above St Patrick's Church and a control tower built in 1947 give Paraparaumu striking and very different stories. There is also a museum with aviation exhibits, an expansive park and trails that reveal different sides of the town.

Aviation History and a Remarkable Hill

The Museum of Aviation is located at Kāpiti Coast Airport on Kāpiti Road, next to the Airport Control Tower. Its exhibits explore New Zealand's history and pioneering era, as well as general aviation. The control tower itself was built in 1947 and is a landmark of Paraparaumu. The airport also has a remarkable past: from 1947 to 1959, Kāpiti Coast Airport was New Zealand's busiest airport. The museum, tower and airport therefore offer different points of interest for anyone interested in aviation and history.

Another historical point of interest is Our Lady of Lourdes. The statue is 14 metres high and stands on a 75-metre-high hill above St Patrick's Church. It was commissioned in 1958 to mark the 100th anniversary of the Virgin Mary's apparition at Lourdes. Its height, location and significance make it a striking landmark that stands apart from the theme of aviation.

Park, Play Areas and Memorials

Paraparaumu Domain is an expansive park on the corner of Aorangi Street and Tutanekai Street. It is recognisable by the Paraparaumu War Memorial gates. These commemorate those who fell in the First and Second World Wars and give the park its own historical significance. Those interested in local history can also include the Paraparaumu Heritage Trail in their exploration: it leads to historic sites in Paraparaumu.

The Domain also has a modernised playground with play equipment for children of all ages, including accessible swings. The range of play options can make it a practical stop for families, while the sports facilities offer other activities: the facilities include areas for rugby, cricket, athletics and football. The park, playground and sports areas therefore appeal to different interests, without limiting a visit to a single activity.

Trails and the Island Nearby

The Wharemauku Stream Path is an easy trail for pedestrians and cyclists between Paraparaumu Town Centre and Raumati Beach. Those looking for a route to explore on foot or by bike will find a clearly marked connection between these two places. The path offers a different way to experience Paraparaumu than the historic points of interest at the airport or the Domain.

Kāpiti Island is also part of the destination's surroundings: from Paraparaumu Beach, the island lies across the channel and is a protected island sanctuary. Boats to the island depart from Kāpiti Boating Club, 1 Manly Road, in nearby Paraparaumu Beach. Alongside the attractions in town, the island and boat connections therefore offer other travel interests to choose from.

When looking for holiday accommodation in Paraparaumu, it helps to prioritise the experiences you want: aviation and local history, the park and sports, the trail between Town Centre and Raumati Beach, or the island nearby.

More destination pages

More places in the directory: Porirua, Ponatahi, Plimmerton, Clareville, Whareama, Bidwells Cutting, Dyerville and Paraparaumu Beach.

To the main travel overview: Wellington.