The Wairarapa is a picturesque rural region of holiday cottages and vineyards alongside a rugged coastline. Masterton is the main centre. Further south, the historic main street of Greytown offers an array of cute boutiques. Martinborough Wine Village is the epicentre of the region's wine-growing: an ideal place for a walking wine tour or wine tour by bike.

Regional Destinations

Martinborough Numerous vineyards surround the pretty village square.

Masterton Urban centre of the Wairarapa region.

Greytown Features a Victorian main street lined with shops and cafés.

Highlights

Browse the boutiques in quaint country towns. Take a cycle tour of the wineries in Martinborough Wine Village. Visit Pūkaha Mount Bruce National Wildlife Centre.

Wine Country

Just one hour’s drive northeast of bustling Wellington yet fringed by mountains and rugged coast, the Wairarapa offers a diverse range of experience for lovers of great wine, gourmet organically grown food, astonishing wildlife and natural beauty. The area is particularly renowned as a wine-growing region, with out-of-the-way towns such as Martinborough boasting over 20 vineyards surrounding the village square. Wairarapa is also home to a wealth of other specialist food producers – from olive oils, fruits and vegetables, nuts and herbs to honey, traditional cider, boutique beer, cheeses and chocolate, this region is the perfect destination for those with an interest in culinary indulgence.

On the Wine Trail

Since grape vines were first planted around Martinborough during the 1970s, the local industry has boomed, and there are now more than 50 vineyards in the Wairarapa – most within a fairly handy distance for a cycle tour! Note though that some wineries are open only during summer months, so it pays to do a bit of research when planning your route.