Sights & Activities
Unforgettable sights
Palliser Bay, South Coast – ruggedly beautiful, this sweeping bay is located at the southern tip of the North Island.
The Putangirua Pinnacles – this majestic rock formation formed over 120,000 years as erosion wore away a layer of gravel.
Adrenaline-rush
McLeods Martinborough Adventures – explore a rugged 1,400 acre farm by quad bike (
www.mcleodsadventures.co.nz)
Gliding Wairarapa, Greytown – get a sweeping bird’s eye view of the picturesque Wairarapa region as you fly in a glider with fully qualified instructors (t. +64 6 304 9436)
Relax & Indulge
Wine-tasting in the Wairarapa – try the Martinborough Wine Centre or take a tour with Gourmet Wine Escape (t. +64 6 377 1227).
Shopping in Greytown – this charming colonial village is renowned for its stylish specialty shops and cafés.
Top Picks
Culture
Mount Bruce National Wildlife Centre – meet some of New Zealand’s rarest species of wildlife (
www.mtbruce.org.nz)
Road Trip
From Martinborough, drive down to the coast and around to the wild and wonderful Cape Palliser.
Luxury
Wharekauhau Country Estate – this exclusive country estate offers cottage suites, a heated swimming pool and spa treatments (
www.wharekauhau.co.nz)
Inexpensive or free
Wairarapa Farmers Market – sample fresh local fare including vegetables, herbs, cheese, eggs, flowers and olive oil at this Saturday morning market (t. +64 6 370 0913).
Culinary experiences
The French Baker, Greytown – handcrafted French breads and pastries, from fine baguettes to almond croissants (
www.frenchbaker.co.nz)
Exclusive dining
Peppers Martinborough Hotel Bistro and Bar – classic bistro with a contemporary edge (t. +64 6 306 9350)
Casual dining
Riverview Café at Murdoch James, Martinborough – fire for winter warmth and al fresco dining in summer (t. +64 6 306 9165).
Café
Café Strada, Masterton – a tempting all-day menu plus a great vegetarian selection (t. +64 6 378 8450).
Swishy Bar
Café Cecille, Masterton – award winning café by day and upmarket restaurant and wine bar by night, the extensive wine list has a tempting selection of wines from the Wairarapa region.
Cosy pub
Gladstone Inn, Carterton – this friendly country pub offers great family dining (t. +64 6 372 7866).
Shop or gallery
Schoc Chocolates, Greytown – treat yourselt to some deliciously decadent handcrafted chocolates (t. +64 6 304 8960).
