El Rancho on the Kapiti Coast is one of New Zealand’s leading destinations for large group accommodation. Set across 60 acres beside the Waikanae River, this peaceful riverside property provides flexible group accommodation for 14–500+ guests, along with catering, meeting spaces and a wide range of onsite activities.
Just 45 minutes from Wellington, El Rancho is ideal for school camps, retreats, family reunions and community gatherings seeking space, privacy and purpose-built facilities in a natural setting.
El Rancho serves families, schools, corporate groups, churches and community organisations from across New Zealand.
Group Accommodation Kapiti Coast for 14–500+ Guests
Every year, El Rancho hosts hundreds of groups in a peaceful riverside setting. We specialise in large-scale group accommodation ranging from budget bunkrooms to premium motel-style units.
Accommodation Complexes:
Elm Complex – 14–122 beds
Redwood Complex – 110–154 beds
Pinewood Complex – 35–76 beds
Most accommodation options include access to meeting spaces.
Conference & Event Venues Near Wellington
El Rancho is just 45 minutes north of Wellington and just over an hour from Palmerston North — making it a central and convenient venue for regional or national events.
Large Conferences & Conventions
Kauri Hall
- Seats up to 700 theatre-style.
- Ideal for conferences, concerts, conventions and large gatherings.
- Also suitable for indoor sports, rock climbing and team-building activities.
Smaller Meeting Spaces
Apiti Chapel
- A historic wooden chapel originally built in 1899.
- A picturesque venue overlooking the property — ideal for weddings, ceremonies and quiet retreats.
Founders Lounge
- Flexible café-style space with kitchen facilities and accessible bathroom.
- Perfect for breakout sessions, workshops or relaxed gatherings.
Onsite Activities & Team Building
El Rancho offers an extensive range of OutdoorMark-certified activities, audited to meet the highest WorkSafe NZ standards.
Activities are available when booking group accommodation (minimum two-night stay).
Instructed Activities Include:
- Go Karts & Adventure Trikes
- Indoor Rock Climbing
- Archery & Axe Throwing
- Horse Experience
- River Tubing
- Kayaking
- Paintball
- Team Building Challenges
Self-Led Activities Include:
- Bonfires
- Waterslide & Swimming Pool (seasonal)
- Mini Golf & Disc Golf
- Glow Dodgeball
- Orienteering
- Tennis
- Trampolines
Programmes are tailored to your group’s objectives, age and budget.
Family Reunions & Community Events
El Rancho is ideal for family reunions on the Kapiti Coast.
We offer:
- Accommodation for 14–500+ guests
- Catering for 35–500+ people
- Self-catering (groups up to 100)
- Indoor and outdoor recreation spaces
- Large open grounds for children and activities
Relax and let our team handle the catering — or enquire about self-catering options.
Sports Team Accommodation
Located on 60 acres of lush grounds beside the Waikanae River, El Rancho offers excellent facilities for sports teams.
Features include:
- Rugby field and open training areas
- Full-size indoor gymnasium
- Rock climbing wall
- Basketball court
- Access to the 25km Kapiti Coast Shared Pathway
Train hard — relax well.
Prime Kapiti Coast Location
El Rancho borders the Waikanae River and is a short walk from Waikanae Beach and the estuary.
Set across 60 acres of peaceful grounds, it feels a world away — yet is just 45 minutes from Wellington.
Why Choose El Rancho for Group Accommodation Kapiti Coast
- Large-scale group accommodation
- Conference and event venues up to 700 people
- Onsite catering and professional chefs
- Tailored activity programmes
- Safe, certified outdoor experiences
- Central North Island location
Plan Your Next Event at El Rancho Kapiti Coast
Whether you’re organising a school camp, conference, retreat or family reunion, El Rancho has the facilities, accommodation and team to make it seamless.
- Contact the Group Booking Co-ordinators
- Enquire about packages and availability
- Secure your dates early
Create connection. Build memories. Experience El Rancho.
El Rancho’s Kapiti Coast location also makes it an excellent base for exploring the wider Wellington region. From coastal walks and wildlife experiences to museums, markets and waterfront dining in the capital, there is plenty for groups to enjoy before or after their stay. Discover more places to stay, things to do and travel inspiration across the wider Wellington region on NZ Online Travel.
FAQs
How many people can El Rancho accommodate?
El Rancho specialises in group accommodation for 14 to over 500 guests.
Is El Rancho suitable for conferences near Wellington?
Yes. Located just 45 minutes from Wellington, El Rancho offers venues seating up to 700 people.
Are activities included with accommodation?
Activities are available when booking group accommodation (minimum two-night stay). Some activities incur additional fees.
Does El Rancho provide catering?
Yes. Onsite catering is available for groups of 35–500+ people. Limited self-catering options are available for smaller groups.
Is El Rancho suitable for family reunions?
Yes. With flexible accommodation, meeting spaces and outdoor areas, it is ideal for large family gatherings.
