Whitebaiting

Whitebaiting is a much loved activity on the Kāpiti Coast, however we need to ensure that we respect our natural environment and manage access to whitebaiting spots. Previously, the Kāpiti Coast District Council issued permits for driving on the beach (which has never included driving into the Waikanae Scientific Reserve), but we will not be issuing permits going forward as we have no jurisdictional authority. 

Whitebaiters who wish to access the Waikanae Scientific Reserve need to park-up close to the pedestrian access points nearby and access their favourite spot on foot. 

Rules restricting vehicle access along our beaches exist to protect important ecology, protect our natural environment and protect public safety.

Greater Wellington Regional Council (GWRC), under the Resource Management Act (RMA), has the jurisdictional control over the coastal marine area. They have restricted vehicles from driving on beaches in parts of the coastal marine area in their Proposed Natural Resources Plan which is now operable. For more information, please contact them.

Department of Conservation (DOC) has jurisdictional authority over the Waikanae Scientific Reserve. Their 1994 bylaw restricts motor vehicles accessing the reserve unless prior permission is granted by the regional Conservator (DoC). For more information, please contact them. 

We encourage you to contact these agencies should you have any questions.