Whakataki Beach - Wairarapa  PhillipC (Flickr)

About Wairarapa

Though agriculture has been the mainstay of the Wairarapa for over a century, the Wairarapa Wine Region is fast becoming a major regional drawcard. 

Wairarapa Wine Region

Whilst retaining its rural charm, Wairarapa has embraced new industries such as wine growing, turning a once-sleepy region into an exciting getaway.

Martinborough

Martinborough is one of the region’s most popular locations, boasting over 26 small vineyards.  Though the area produces only a tiny percentage of New Zealand’s grapes it is well known for its fine Pinot Noir.  The town itself is home to top-notch restaurants and cafes and is a popular weekend retreat for many Wellingtonians.

Masterton

Masterton, Wairarapa’s other main township, embraces its rural routes. With over 3 million sheep in this region the town is famous for its International Golden Shears competition – an annual event to find New Zealand’s top sheep shearer.

Greytown

Greytown, south of Masterton, was New Zealand’s first planned inland township.  The beautifully maintained main street showcases some fine examples of Victorian settler architecture, from the characteristic Bay Villa to more intricate frontier-style buildings.  Known for its cafes and boutique shops, Greytown is a great place to stop and take stock.

Cape Palliser & Castle Point

Southern Wairarapa offers some of the most remote coastline in New Zealand.  The windswept coast, stretching from Cape Palliser in the south to Castle Point on the north-east, is a must for wild walks and wildlife.

 Martinborough Hotel - Wairarapa  Robert Bradley (Flickr)

Wairarapa

Accommodation

A luxurious destination, Wairarapa offers opulent lodge accommodation, cosy country cottages, beautiful beach houses and modest motels.

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 Shopping in Greytown, Wairarapa  © Destination Wairarapa

Wairarapa

Activities

 If winery tours aren't your thing, the region offers an array of alternative activity options. There's something to suit everyone here.

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