Wairarapa Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Wairarapa, along with recommendations for food and drink, safety, and transportation options.


Introduction to Wairarapa

Nestled within the Greater Wellington region of New Zealand’s North Island, the stunning Wairarapa offers travelers a wealth of outdoor adventures, natural beauty, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, or foodie, Wairarapa has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Wairarapa

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Wairarapa boasts a rich cultural heritage, with numerous museums and historical sites waiting to be discovered. The Top 3 cultural attractions that you shouldn’t miss are:

  • Cobblestones Museum - Located in Greytown, Cobblestones Museum is the perfect place to explore the fascinating history of early European settlers. The museum houses a collection of historic buildings, including a blacksmith shop and a general store, as well as a working 1890s tram.
  • Pukaha National Wildlife Centre - Covering more than 900 acres of restored native forest, Pukaha National Wildlife Centre is home to a variety of native birds, including kiwi, kaka, and tui. The center also has a visitor’s center, where you can learn about Maori culture and the conservation work being done at the center.
  • Tui Brewery - If you want to experience the Kiwi beer culture, Tui Brewery is an ideal spot. The Brewery Tour includes beer sampling and an introduction to Tui’s brewing process that has continued for almost a century. The tour is a delight for all beer aficionados.

Natural Attractions of Wairarapa: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

The natural attractions of Wairarapa are second to none, and there is a wide range of outdoor adventures and scenic views to explore. The must-visit natural attractions are:

  • Palliser Bay - Consisting of a rugged coastline, Palliser Bay is a true beauty with its world-famous Putangirua Pinnacles, which were the backdrop for Lord of the Rings. You can take a stroll along the coast to see the Pinnacles, which are naturally shaped rocks in the form of towers and cones.
  • Tararua Forest Park - As a nature lover, you must visit Tararua Forest Park, which is home to an extensive range of hiking and mountain bike trails. The park offers stunning panoramic views of the Wairarapa countryside and is a perfect playground for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Castlepoint Lighthouse - The Castlepoint Lighthouse is an iconic attraction in Wairarapa, offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding coastline. You can reach the lighthouse via a scenic bush trail.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Wairarapa

Wairarapa is a paradise for hikers and bikers, with a selection of trails and routes suitable for all skill levels. Below are three of the best hiking and biking routes in Wairarapa:

  • Rimutaka Rail Trail - The Rimutaka Rail Trail is an easy, scenic, and historically significant route, following the now-defunct Rimutaka Railway across the Rimutaka mountain range. This 1-day hiking and biking trail take you through beautiful New Zealand flora and fauna.
  • Pirinoa Valley Track - The Pirinoa Valley Track is a stunning hiking trail that passes through the Pirinoa Valley. The trail offers fantastic views of the Wairarapa countryside and takes you through tranquil beech forests and rolling farmland.
  • Five Mile Loop Track - If you’re looking for a quick and easy stroll, then the Five Mile Loop Track is just what you need. This short hiking trail is suitable for all ages and takes you through the scenic Conifer Forest, with a beautiful view of Lake Wairarapa.

Best Things to Do in Wairarapa: Activities and Tours

Wairarapa offers plenty of activities and tours for all interests. The top three things to do in Wairarapa that you must include in your itinerary are:

  • Wine Tours - Wairarapa is renowned for its wine culture, and visiting local wineries and cellar doors is a must-do activity. You can take self-drive, guided, or bike wine tours to explore the vineyards of the region.
  • Hot Air Balloon Rides - Wairarapa is the perfect place to experience a hot air balloon ride, offering spectacular views of the Wairarapa Valley and beyond.
  • Seal Coast Safari - The Seal Coast Safari is an unforgettable adventure that takes you through some of Wairarapa’s most breathtaking scenery, including rugged coastlines, fur seal colonies, and stunning vistas of the South Wairarapa coastline.

Week-Long Itinerary for Wairarapa

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Wairarapa, below is a suggested itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival and cultural Tour of Martinborough, the village buzz, and tour of general stores, boutique shops, and cafes.

Day 2: Palliser Bay and Putangirua Pinnacles Tour with stopover in Lake Ferry.

Day 3: Castlepoint Lighthouse Tour and to Otaki for a guided walk through Tararua Forest.

Day 4: Hutt River Trail Tour and vineyard visits in Upper Hutt.

Day 5: Early morning hot air balloon ride and afternoon horseback riding in Gladstone.

Day 6: Morning birdwatching at Pukaha Mt Bruce Wildlife Centre and afternoon bike tour of Rimutaka Rail Trail.

Day 7: Departure and visit to any missed sights.

Food and Drink Scene of Wairarapa

Wairarapa offers delightful food and drink options tailored to the tourists’ gustatory adventures and comfort. You must try:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Lamb- Wairarapa is famous for its succulent and flavorful lamb dishes, which can be found at almost every restaurant.
  • Wild Game Meat- If you’re looking for something different, try wild game meat, such as wild boar, deer, and venison, which are hunted and prepared locally.
  • Cheese- Wairarapa is also known for its artisanal cheeses made by local producers. Try some of the Brie, Blue, Camembert, and Gouda varieties.

Local Beverages

  • Wine - Wairarapa produces world-class wines, including Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, and Chardonnay. You can visit local wineries and cellar doors and participate in tasting sessions for an exceptional wine experience.
  • Craft Beer - Wairarapa has a thriving craft beer culture, with local breweries producing an array of handcrafted brews.

Where to Stay in Wairarapa: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Wairarapa has plenty of accommodations, ranging from luxurious hotels and resorts to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses. Some of the best places to stay in Wairarapa are:

  • Peppers Parehua Martinborough - A luxurious property located on the outskirts of Martinborough, Peppers Parehua offers spacious rooms with stunning views of the Wairarapa countryside.
  • Martinborough Hotel - A historic hotel located in the heart of Martinborough village, Martinborough Hotel features vintage suites with fireplaces and claw-foot tubs.
  • The Old Manse B&B - A charming colonial-style bed and breakfast located in Greytown, with well-appointed rooms and delicious homemade breakfast.

What to Buy in Wairarapa: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Wairarapa offers a range of souvenirs and local products that are perfect for bringing back home. You can buy:

  • Wairarapa Wine - Take a bottle or two of locally produced wines as a reminder of your Wairarapa journey experience.
  • Manuka Honey - Wairarapa produces high-quality manuka honey, known for its unique flavor and medicinal properties.
  • Sheepskin Products - Keep warm and comfortable during the winter months with a sheepskin rug, slippers, or gloves made of locally sourced wool.

Local Culture and Customs of Wairarapa

The local culture of Wairarapa is an interesting blend of British and Maori influences. The region is home to several Maori settlements, where Maori customs, traditions, and ceremonies are still practiced. Visitors are expected to follow the local customs and respect the Maori culture.

Best Time to Visit Wairarapa

The best time to visit Wairarapa is between December and February, which marks the spring and summer months in New Zealand. During this time, visitors can enjoy warm and sunny weather, perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Wairarapa

Do:

  • Respect the Maori culture and traditions.
  • Try the local food and drink, particularly wine and cheese.
  • Take advantage of the outdoor activities and scenic views.

Don’t:

  • Trespass on private property.
  • Litter or damage the natural environment.
  • Disrespect cultural sites or monuments.

Safety and Health

Safety in Wairarapa

Wairarapa is a safe and secure travel destination, and tourists rarely face any significant safety concerns. However, visitors should still exercise caution, especially when hiking in remote and rugged areas. Always carry sufficient supplies, wear appropriate clothing and footwear, and inform someone responsible about your plans.

Health in Wairarapa

Wairarapa has an excellent healthcare system, and visitors can access quality medical care if needed. However, it is still essential to take necessary precautions to ensure good health and prevent accidents, such as wearing sunscreen, staying hydrated, and avoiding extreme outdoor activities.

Getting to Wairarapa: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Wairarapa

The nearest International airport to Wairarapa is Wellington Airport (WLG), which is 100 km’s away from Martinborough and offers excellent connectivity to major cities across the globe.

Bus Stations Near Wairarapa

Bus services from Wellington and Palmerston North regularly stop at Featherston, from where passengers can avail local bus services.

Other Options

Visitors can also rent cars or hire taxis to reach Wairarapa from Wellington.

How to Get Around in Wairarapa

The most convenient way to travel around Wairarapa is by car. Visitors can rent a car from various rental companies located in Wellington or Wairarapa. For those who prefer public transportation, there are bus services that run between the major towns and villages in Wairarapa.

Where to Go Next from Wairarapa: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Wairarapa is conveniently located near several other top New Zealand attractions. Visitors can take a trip to nearby destinations like the vibrant city of Wellington, the Maori art-filled town of Rotorua, or the world-famous Mount Cook National Park.

Conclusion

Wairarapa is a hidden gem, waiting to be explored. With its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and exciting outdoor activities, Wairarapa is sure to leave visitors with unforgettable memories. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit this incredible region of New Zealand!

Castlepoint on the Wairarapa east coast Castlepoint on the Wairarapa east coast


    Martinborough