Notes
This compact history reveals the colourful and fascinating past of the Kapiti Coast. This area of New Zealand, once both desired and fought over by Maori, was the focus of much missionary work and early European settlement from the mid 1800s.More manageable land and conditions that allowed for abundant food production drew early farmers from Wellington. As time passed, the beach settlements and relatively luxuriant climate provided by the shelter of Kapiti Island attracted holidaymakers and later commerce. The settlements dotted along the coast became thriving townships that in time were linked by rail, leading to enormous population growth. Kapiti Island itself enchants all who either catch a glimpse of, or live in sight of it - one day a dark and solitary shape, the next a misty and alluring floating form. While it is a very successful reserve and bird sanctuary today, its past has not been tranquil - it has seen much of whaling, wars and intrigue.
