Must Do's
The local must do's of the Wairarapa
Wairarapa is a region of big skies, wide valleys and small towns, full of character. With three major forest parks and a wild stretch of coast it offers endless possibilities for outdoor adventures or just getting away from it all.
It's also one of New Zealand's top food and wine destinations offering some of the country's premium wines and everything from country cooking to fine cuisine in the many cafes, vineyards and restaurants. The Wairarapa is a true escape - all within an hour's drive of Wellington, and at the heart of the Classic NZ Wine Trail.
Highlights of a trip to the Wairarapa include:
- Tui Brewery - enjoy a Tui HQ tasting and tour experience.
- Pukaha Mount Bruce National Wildlife Centre - you might see a kiwwwi among other rare birds.
- Riversdale and Castlepoint - the best swimming, surfing and fishing beaches on the coast.
- Tararua Forest Park - an accessible wilderness close to Masterton.
- Stonehenge Aotearoa - a full-scale working adaptation of England's Stonehenge.
- Carterton's Paua World - offers jewellery made from New Zealand's paua.
God Rays
Beautiful sun poking through the trees midday, causing a lovely god-ray effect through the trees.
White Roses
White rose bushes scattered across the Wairarapa, adding softly colour flowers, beautifying the land.
Lake Wairapa
Plants located around the iconic Wairapa lake which is commonly visited by tourists.