El Rancho is a camp and conference centre at 58 Weggery Drive, Waikanae Beach, on the Kapiti Coast. It sits on a 60-acre site beside the beach, the Waikanae River and native bush tracks. It hosts school camps, Christian camps, retreats, conferences, family reunions and holidays, with accommodation in motel units and campsites and a choice of meeting spaces. Its venues range from a minimum of 14 guests up to more than 500. Instructed and self-led activities are available to groups. Day visitors can use the playground, mini golf and a puzzle trail, and book the waterslide for a half-hour slot for a small fee. Day visits are possible from May to September, outside the school holidays, but the centre asks visitors to call ahead, and a day visitor fee applies. From October to April, and in school holidays, the centre is usually full with groups. Instructed activities must be booked eight weeks ahead. The centre holds a free open day each year. Group enquiries go through the online form under the Contact Us tab.