If you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Wairarapa offers a blend of natural wonders and rural charm. It’s flanked by the forested Tararua Range to the west and rugged coastlines to the east. It’s a place of big skies, wild landscapes, delightful villages, delicious food, and award-winning wineries. All just an hour’s drive or train ride from Wellington.
The Wairarapa region is renowned for its award-winning winemakers. There are so many to visit, so you’ll need to make repeat trips. Luckily, many of the wineries have cellar doors and attached restaurants. Sample a drop and grab a bottle to take home.
Explore the grandeur of the universe from one of the world’s official International Dark Sky Reserves. Gaze through high-tech telescopes, listen to expert guides, and discover the secrets of the stars.
The Wairarapa region has plenty of reasons to visit. Make it a day trip — there are some great champions of food, art, and experiences on offer around the region.
From easy bike rides through vineyards to exhilarating trails around the countryside and coast — Green Jersey Explorer tours offer the ultimate Wairarapa adventure.
The original Greytown to Woodside railway line provides a beautiful and family-friendly walking path.
Explore the forest, meet native birds, and learn about the connection to the land at a unique conservation centre in Mount Bruce Reserve.
In a region full of wonderful vistas, this short trail along a wild, rugged coastline leads to one of the most recognisable landmarks in New Zealand.
Encompassing a restaurant, tasting room, cellar door, distillery, and barrel hall space, The Runholder offers an exquisite hospitality experience in Martinborough.
Award-winning wine, an organic ethos, and joyful food. This winery delivers a true Martinborough experience.
Known for producing a world-class pinot noir, Ata Rangi is an award-winning organic vineyard in Martinborough.
Come together at this Martinborough restaurant, where an old bank has been transformed with classic, contemporary flair.
Elegant bistro dining meets classic country pub in the historic Martinborough Hotel.
Built using passion and teamwork, Poppies Martinborough makes wines with heart. The vineyard’s traditional approach produces wine that’s big on flavour.
Sit in the gardens, sip a glass of local wine, and enjoy tasty shareable plates at this award-winning winery.
An organic vineyard, a beautiful cellar door, and award-winning wines. Urlar Gladstone is a Wairarapa hidden gem with heart.
Walk alongside the Atiwhakatu River and return the same day, or rest at Atiwhakatu Hut overnight.
An easy walk for the whole family among mature podocarp and broadleaf native trees in the Tararua Range.
In a region full of wonderful vistas, this short trail along a wild, rugged coastline leads to one of the most recognisable landmarks in New Zealand.
A series of short loop walks just 20 minutes from Masterton through native bush and pine forest.
A peaceful riverside trail connecting Featherston to Greytown via one of New Zealand’s longest cycle path suspension bridges.
The multi-day circuit around Mount Holdsworth gives you the opportunity to explore the tops of the Tararua Range. Enjoy 360-degree views of the Wairarapa region and Wellington.
A three day hike through the Tararua Range, from Holdsworth to Kaitoke.
There’s something for everyone on this exhilarating and historic 122 kilometres cycle trail connecting Wellington to the Wairarapa region.