In short
- Clean all soil and seeds off your boots and clothing.
- Pack all food in sealed, rodent-proof containers.
- Prepare your daypack for a thorough pest inspection.
In this article
Staff enforce rigorous checks at the departure point at Paraparaumu Beach. If your gear contains pests, seeds, or soil, you will not be allowed to travel.
Why does Kapiti Island have strict biosecurity rules?
The island is a protected nature reserve that has been predator-free since 1998.
The reserve covers 1,965 hectares and provides a safe habitat for endangered native birds like kiwi, takahē, and kōkako. Introduced pests, seeds, or diseases can easily destroy this ecosystem. The checks ensure no unwanted threats reach the island.
How clean must my boots be?
Your walking boots must be entirely free of soil and seeds.
Scrub your sturdy walking shoes or boots thoroughly before you leave home. Pay special attention to the treads on the soles, as dirt easily clumps there. Biosecurity staff will inspect your footwear before you board the boat.
How do I prepare my daypack and clothing?
Empty your clean daypack completely and check all pockets for stray seeds or insects.
Ensure your waterproof jacket and warm clothing layers do not carry any plant material. Check Velcro straps and the bottom of your bag. All bags are subject to a physical inspection prior to the 15-minute ferry crossing.
How must I pack my food for Kapiti Island?
All food must go in sealed, rodent-proof, and insect-proof containers or bags.
If you are not on a catered tour, you must bring your own packed lunch. Do not use open paper bags or loose grocery bags. You also need to bring your own drinking water, as none is sold on the island.
| Item type | Allowed? | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Hard plastic lunchbox | Yes | Rodent-proof and secure |
| Ziplock bags (sealed) | Yes | Insect-proof when closed |
| Open supermarket bags | No | Pests can easily hide inside |
What happens during the biosecurity check?
Staff will examine your gear before you board the ferry at Paraparaumu Beach.
You must present your bags, clothing, and footwear for inspection. If they find dirt or pests, you must clean your items on the spot. If your gear is heavily contaminated, you will be denied entry to the island.
What are the rules once I land on Kapiti Island?
You must carry all rubbish off the island and stay on marked tracks.
Keep to the mowed areas and marked paths like the Wilkinson Track or Rangatira Loop Track. You cannot leave any litter or plant material behind. Smoking, vaping, and fires are strictly prohibited everywhere.
Questions travellers ask
Do I need to carry my rubbish off Kapiti Island?
Yes. There are no public bins. You must pack out all rubbish and litter, including food scraps, in your sealed daypack.
Can I bring my drone?
No. Unauthorised drones are strictly prohibited on Kapiti Island to prevent disturbing the native birdlife.
Can I feed the birds?
No. You must not feed, touch, or harass any wildlife on the island.
