Waikanae is located on the Kapiti Coast – the Nature Coast – only an hour’s drive from/to Wellington. It has much to offer overseas visitors and NZ’ers alike.

When was the last time you paid this region a visit, and explored the many and varied places of interest? To do this effectively, one needs time – time to relax and recharge those batteries, away from all the hustle and bustle, in a home away from home – Helen’s.

Enjoy long, leisurely walks on a sandy and safe swimming beach (direct access), awesome sunsets, and wonderful views of Kapiti Island, a world-renown nature reserve.

For the more energetic, the Nature Coast has a number of walking/cycling trails (eg Waikanae River Walkway, Mount Kapakapanui, Mangaone Walkway and many others).

If it’s cycling you enjoy, we have a couple of bicycles at your disposal, or maybe it’s a game of tennis you would like to play. We can supply racquets and balls for you to do this (there is a tennis court for hire close by).

There are great golf courses in the Kapiti/Horowhenua region, the most renown of these is Paraparaumu Beach Golf Club, the very same one that Tiger Woods played on. It is ranked in the top 100 golf courses in the world. It is all here on the Nature Coast.

There are several very good cafés/restaurants within walking distance of Helen’s. If you are more into fine-dining and/or ethnic cuisines, then Waikanae has it.

As a guest at Helen’s, tuck into a generous continental and/or full cooked breakfast – all you can eat! Take advantage of all day tea-making facilities and home-baked treats. And, last but not least, with a little prior notice, Helen can prepare for you a tasty home-cooked dinner.

• Cable TV in main lounge – free-to-air TV in the “Seaview” room (there is no TV in the “Kapiti” room).
• Access to laundry, if required and off-street parking available.
• Visa/MasterCard/cash accepted.

Please don’t be like so many guests who arrive here having booked in to stay for only one night and then being genuinely disappointed at not being able to stay for at least another night. Plan well ahead! If you are coming from overseas and intend being here during our summer (December – March), we encourage you to stay longer, not only so that you can discover this wonderful region, but also take the time to visit Wellington, our beautiful Capital City, before you board the inter-island ferry for your holiday in the scenic South Island.

Wellington is a most attractive city, built around a natural harbour surrounded by lush green hills and, being a reasonably small city, can be navigated in a very short time. Just park your car and set out on foot.

Must see: Te Papa Museum (www.tepapa.govt.nz), the Botanical Gardens (accessed by Wellington’s famous cable car), a fantastic waterfront walk, and last but not least, the Karori Wildlife Sanctuary (www.sanctuary.org.nz).

Wellington is the gateway to the South Island, an island of unimaginable beauty, and scenery to take your breath away, eg majestic mountains, mirror lakes, walking trails, not to mention fantastic winter ski-ing, snowboarding, hunting and many other outdoor pursuits. (Further places of interest can be found on the “Attractions” page.)

Comments from guests …

“Thank you for your part in making our New Zealand trip the most memorable vacation we’ve experienced. We’re anxious to return. Everyone and everything is so natural and unspoiled in your country – you’re very fortunate. The acts of kindness we often ran into were quite unexpected. The thoughtfulness you showed in going out and finding us a linen tea towel is a perfect example.”

“Helen’s warm and friendly attitude combined with her attention to detail made this one of the most memorable B&Bs I have ever stayed in. One night is just simply not enough!”

“Helen has made every effort to make our stay so special. From an exquisite breakfast, to the crisp linen sheets and fresh fruit and home made cookies and chocolate cake! Every opportunity is made and this is without doubt the best B&B we have stayed in over 14 nights in New Zealand.”

“Helen and her delightful hospitality were exceptional! Her home is gorgeous, clean and hospitable. Her dinner and breakfasts were gourmet! We don’t want to leave and will definitely come again. It is a perfect location on the sea.”

“Helen’s home and hospitality is perfect! The home is gorgeous and the best part is Helen’s warmth and hospitality. She is charming and gracious and knowledgeable. She is the best!”