Wellington & Wairarapa

Photo credit:Ian Trafford

The word ‘indulgence’ quickly comes to mind when you consider the attractions of the Lower North Island. Here your explorations around Wellington and Wairarapa will allow you to indulge your passion for all things gourmet, as well as your hunger for creativity and knowledge. Fine food, wine, galleries and museums will compete for your attention.

In Wellington, our capital city, you’ll find museums, galleries, historic buildings and the political theatre of parliament packaged into a compact, waterfront environment. Walking will get you everywhere. Centre of attention is Te Papa, New Zealand’s spectacular national museum. The exhibits are highly entertaining and often interactive. From Lambton Quay, an elegant old cable car travels up to the Botanic Garden and observatory with huge views all the way. To see what lies beyond the harbour, take a day trip on the inter-island ferry which links the North and South Islands.

From Wellington there are two country escapes to enjoy - Wairarapa and the Kapiti Coast. Travel over the Rimutaka Range and you’ll arrive in the Wairarapa region. Carterton and Greytown will charm you with historic buildings, antique shops and quaint museums. In Martinborough, wine is the key attraction. From the village square you can walk around the wineries and find out why we rave about Martinborough pinot noir. To complement Wairarapa’s wine, the Kapiti Coast has a food focus. Visit market gardens, a chocolate factory, olive groves and all kinds of gourmet food producers.

Between harbour and hills
Wellington's geography has created a compact city. The central city, only 2 kilometres wide, is nestled between the harbour and the hills. Wild, untouched landscapes can be found within minutes of your city hotel.

The home of heritage
Wellington is home to many of New Zealand's most significant heritage attractions. Among these are the national museum Te Papa, Parliament and the National Archives, which displays the original Treaty of Waitangi.

Cape Palliser
Cape Palliser, complete with lighthouse, is the southernmost point of the North Island. Highlights include a large breeding colony of New Zealand fur seals and Maori occupation sites dating from the 12th century.

Martinborough wine village
Approximately 30 wineries surround Martinborough’s charming village square, creating a unique 'walk the wineries' experience. You can sample premium wines without the need to drive.

Castlepoint
An hour’s drive east from Masterton, Castlepoint beach is a great day trip. Walk the boardwalk to the lighthouse or enjoy a longer walk through the scenic reserve to Castle Rock, named by Captain Cook in 1770.

• Australia
• China
• Japan
• New Zealand
• Thailand