25 Things to Do in Wairarapa: Fall in Love with the Region

In the midst of Wairarapa’s rolling green hills, sprawling vineyards, and charming small towns, Jeff and I discovered a few hidden gems. With so many things to do in Wairarapa, we like to stay a few nights each time we pass through.

The region unfolds to the east of Wellington, extending to both the south and east coasts of New Zealand’s North Island, framed by the Remutaka and Tararua ranges marking its western border.

More than just a place for a romantic getaway in Wairarapa, the region is one of the country’s top wine-growing areas, and it also appeals to adventure seekers, tranquillity enthusiasts, and history buffs.

We share some of our favourite things to do in the Wairarapa below, alongside those we have saved for a future adventure. We encourage you to stay at least a few days and enjoy.

Things to do in Masterton, Wairarapa

Perhaps it’s because we stayed in Masterton (See Kaituna River Cottages below), but we seemed to have focused much of our attention here. As a result, we have a fairly long list of things to do in Masterton.

Le Grá Vineyard, Winery, and B&B

At Le Grá, the Gaelic phrase “le grá” meaning “with love” is more than a mere inscription inside the wedding band of owner Nicky; it’s the essence of everything they do.

As owner-partners, Brian and Nicky run this boutique winery with a dedication to growing and processing grapes meticulously, earning the prestigious sustainability label from New Zealand Sustainable Wine Growing.

This small winery cultivates Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot, and Pinot Gris and crafts a chardonnay using grapes from a neighbouring vineyard.

Jeff enjoyed a wine tasting while I savoured a homemade ginger beer. We lingered outdoors, appreciating the peaceful surroundings as we relished in the culinary excellence displayed in the expansive food platter, which even had a few substitutes to meet my gluten and dairy-free dietary requirements.

Queen Elizabeth Park, Masterton
This quiet retreat in the middle of town has it all. There are walking paths, an island in a small lake, a cricket pitch, a croquet club, a new skate park, and possibly the best playground we have seen in New Zealand.

If you visit on the weekend, be sure to walk over the red bridge and take a train ride around Motu Rēhia (the park island) in the centre of the Lake of Remembrance (renamed after WWII). We were there only on weekdays, so we couldn’t ride it.

Henley Lake, Masterton
We took a relaxing stroll around a portion of Henley Lake as some of its inhabitants (swans and ducks) enjoyed time floating on the water or waddling in the grass. It’s known for lovely sunsets, but we were happy with our afternoon stroll. 

Aratoi Wairarapa Museum of Art and History, Masterton
The interesting artwork leans towards contemporary. To me, it felt more like a gallery than a museum. As for the architecture, my favourite was the Wesley Wing, situated in a former 1878 Methodist church. Before you leave, be sure to check out the sculpture in the courtyard.

Trust House Recreation Centre, Masterton
It was the huge waterslides that caught our eye at the public pool. It also features the “lazy river” that kids love to drift along. While we peeked in, we didn’t actually give it a try.

Museums in Masterton

The Wool Shed – National Museum of Sheep and Shearing, Masterton
A far more comprehensive and bigger museum than we expected, it took us through the history of shearing, sheep farming, and different wools. There are hands-on opportunities to feel the different wool types. I found it to be one of the best things to do in Masterton.

The museum is also home to the Knitters and Spinners Guild, and many of their handmade items are for sale in the gift shop.

Jubilee Fire Museum, Masterton
A small museum accessed through The Wool Shed, we found a few early model fire trucks as well as the progression of uniforms and safety gear over time.

Aratoi Wairarapa Museum of Art and History, Masterton
The interesting artwork leans towards contemporary. To me, it felt more like a gallery than a museum. As for the architecture, my favourite was the Wesley Wing, situated in a former 1878 Methodist church.

Before you leave, be sure to check out the sculpture in the courtyard.

Things to do in Greytown, Featherston, Martinborough

There are several other small towns near Masterton, each with its own diverse personality. We also spent a bit of time in Martinborough (cycling tours and wine tastings), Featherston (New Zealand’s book town), and Greytown (the oldest town in Wairarapa).

Cobblestones Museum, Greytown
At Cobblestones, we didn’t just observe but stepped into the past, immersing in the daily life of early settlers. The village blends authentic artifacts with replicas, offering a hands-on experience.

The entry building holds historical information, but the real magic unfolded as we strolled through structures of the old village including a stable, schoolhouse, hospital, and homes. Some stand where they were first built, others moved here from nearby, and a few were replicas.

We encountered relics like a 1954 fire truck, vintage farm tools, century-old medical instruments, and a foundry. Cobblestones isn’t just one of my favourite NZ museums; it’s a tangible journey into history.

Schoc Chocolates, Greytown
Possibly the finest chocolate in New Zealand, each piece is meticulously handmade. While we couldn’t photo the process, we watched a skilled artisan expertly hand-pouring and shaping peppermint chocolate bars.

We enjoyed several samples and even took home some treats as nearly all of it is coeliac-safe, offering plenty of dairy-free options.

Fell Locomotive Museum, Featherston
Walking in with no idea what to expect, I was captivated by this little museum. It’s focused only on the Fell Locomotive. It’s a unique train engine designed to tackle the steep Remutaka Incline, a grade too challenging for a standard locomotive.

What made the visit fascinating to me was the passionate volunteer who ran the museum, introduced us to the technology, and answered questions. Open only on weekends, the museum is best known for locomotive H199, a piece of New Zealand’s railway history.

Featherston Heritage Museum, Featherston
I had no idea before visiting that Featherston was home to New Zealand’s largest military training camp during World War I, or that there was a Japanese POW camp here during World War II.

The museum brought these stories to life with photos, artifacts, and detailed displays. The two other rooms held an eclectic mix of history, including vintage cameras and a former fire truck. It’s a small museum also open only on weekends.

Wine tasting in Martinborough

Wine tasting in Wairarapa is an experience not to be missed. This boutique wine region is known for its world-class Pinot Noir, charming cellar doors, and warm hospitality. Many wineries offer relaxed tastings, often with the winemakers themselves sharing insights into their craft. The vineyards are set against rolling hills and rustic landscapes, making for an unforgettable day of sipping and exploring.

As I personally don’t drink alcohol, we visited some of the most picturesque wineries in the region:

• Luna Estate – A stylish winery with a welcoming atmosphere, Luna Estate impressed us with its beautifully balanced wines and a lovely outdoor space. Jeff found it perfect for lingering over a glass, alongside some snacks we ordered.
• Ular – A hidden gem with a modern feel.
• Poppies Martinborough – Known for its small-batch wines and charming tasting experience, Poppies seemed personal and inviting.
• Runholder – This winery is known not just for its fantastic Pinot Noir but also for its stunning setting.

Enjoy a wineries bike tour
Bike tours are a popular way to see the wineries, as they are fun and avoid the need for a designated driver. One of the more popular tours is this self-guided Martinborough wineries bike tour that lets you peddle at your own pace. Note that lunch is included, but wine tasting is extra. Reserve your biking wine tour here.

What to do in Wairarapa to the North

Again, we encourage you to make a few stops in the Wairarapa if you are heading north, perhaps as part of a longer drive between Wellington and Auckland. Our highlights include Pūkaha National Wildlife Centre, the Tui Brewery, the small town of Eketahuna, and the oddly eclectic Mt Bruce Pioneer Museum.

Pūkaha National Wildlife Centre

Beginning our journey at the interpretive boards, Jeff and I discovered the interesting history of the land before entering a world reminiscent of New Zealand before people arrived. 

Although the name translates to “windy mountain”, we found the well-manicured path through lush native forest peaceful. The forest itself is teeming with rare and endangered bird life. We also passed several aviaries housing bird species like kākāriki and kōkako, and others with lizards or tuatara.

Pūkaha National Wildlife Centre is proud of its successful breed and release kiwi programme. There is plenty of educational material on kiwi birds as well as a nocturnal house allowing us to see these elusive birds in their natural habitat. Pūkaha is home to New Zealand’s only white kiwi, a genetic abnormality and a bird we did not see.

The park’s range of activities includes guided tours, feeding experiences, and a Māori carving studio. For more on the feeding times, entrance fee, on-site campervan parking (includes a night tour), or longer-term volunteer spots, check their official website.

Tui Brewery, Mangatainoka

I am not sure why it surprised me, but the first time we visited Tui Brewery, we found that the grounds looked just like they did in the old commercials. We find it a fun stop for, at minimum, the cafe. If time allows, we enjoy the tour, which has changed quite a bit over the years, and we wrote about our visits to Tui Brewery here.

Mt Bruce Pioneer Museum
Also open only on the weekends, this vintage museum is a throwback to yesteryear.

Eketahuna
There is something sort of magical about this classic New Zealand small town and its giant kiwi bird statues. It’s a great place to stop for coffee, lunch, or an opportunity to stretch our legs.

More super cool things to do in Wairarapa

There are a few fascinating things to do in the Wairarapa that didn’t fit into any of the lists above. We have visited and recommend them all, each for their own reasons.

Castlepoint Lighthouse

The Castlepoint Lighthouse, perched 23m high on a cliff and 52m above sea level, beckons irresistibly.

Ignoring suggestions from others to choose a less windy day, we embarked on a windy climb up to the lighthouse. Buffeted by gusts at the ⅓ point, I felt the need to hold on to the rail. I turned back at the ⅔ mark, fatigued from recent surgery. Jeff, however, went on to capture photos from the top.

Yet, the Castlepoint Scenic Reserve offered stunning views, proving the journey from Masterton was worth it. It’s also lovely from the sand flats near the Castlepoint Reef memorial plaque commemorating all the people who were swept off this section of cliff by rogue waves. 

Despite limited amenities, the area’s beauty surpassed expectations. Lesson learned; check the weather for a more enjoyable visit.

Stonehenge Aotearoa

Stonehenge Aotearoa isn’t a mere replica of England’s ancient stone circle. This unique structure provides similar astrological and spiritual benefits found in stone circles worldwide.

If you haven’t experienced it yet, a visit is truly worthwhile. We wrote much more about our visit to Stonehenge Aotearoa here.

Lake Ferry / Onoke Spit

Lake Onoke, called Lake Ferry by locals (as a ferry used to cross here),  is a freshwater lake on Wairarapa’s southern coast that empties into the ocean. When we visited, the two didn’t seem to connect, and a local told us this happens in the summer.

The landscape felt desolate yet captivating, with sweeping views of the rugged coastline and ever-shifting pebble sandbanks. It’s a place where nature feels untamed, and even on a quiet day, something is intriguing about standing between the lake and the open sea. 

Schoc Chocolates, Greytown
Possibly the finest chocolate in New Zealand, each piece is meticulously handmade. While we couldn’t photo the process, we watched a skilled artisan expertly hand-pouring and shaping peppermint chocolate bars. We enjoyed several samples and even took home some treats as nearly all of it is coeliac-safe, offering plenty of dairy-free options.

Still on our things to do in the Wairarapa wish list

We are sure there is much more to discover, but still on our list are:

• Cape Palliser and Putangirua Pinnacles
  As New Zealanders, we know we will be back, so we opted to save this stunning area for a future visit due to a major slip (landslide) that currently prevents visitors from seeing the Putangirua Pinnacles.
• Pipinui Falls, Pahiatua
  A short 200m walk from the carpark, this three-tiered cascade waterfall is viewed from a lookout point.
• Mangatiti Falls, Pongaroa
  A stunning waterfall located on private land. Pre-arrangement to view is required from the owners.

Where to stay for a romantic getaway in Wairarapa

We stay in the region to relax and unwind. Choosing our favourite accommodation in Wairarapa depends on our travel goals.

Kaituna Riverside Cottages

Two nights in the Glade Cottage was exactly what we needed to recharge. Surrounded by forest, river, and even a small waterfall, it was a rustic sanctuary off the beaten path, a special place for glamping in Wairarapa.

The cabin itself is a small hideaway, and the surrounding nature makes it a special place.

Off the grid, yet solar-powered, we had everything we needed for a romantic getaway in Wairarapa. It’s perfect for someone looking for a bit of luxury glamping in Wairarapa. There’s a BBQ or indoor stove along with the kitchenette, enough lights to keep us happy, a super comfortable loft bed, and plenty of windows to look out at nature.

More than a mere place to sleep, it’s an experience. We explored the well-signposted trail to the river, waterfall, and “magnificent tree” and even stumbled upon surprises like a chair hammock and a riverside wood fire romantic bath. Our hosts thoughtfully provided a brazier for a nighttime bonfire, even leaving a bag of marshmallows. While a river dip was recommended, the weather didn’t quite warm up enough for us to indulge. Reserve your cottage here.

Parehua Resort

Located in Martinborough, Parehua was the perfect place to unwind, a luxury accommodation in Wairarapa wine country, surrounded by vineyards and a relaxed, countryside atmosphere.

Our stay started on a high note with a surprise upgrade to a lovely lakeside cabin, which had everything we needed to feel right at home. We fully embraced the laid-back vibe, swimming in the pool, soaking in the wine barrel-shaped spa, and even playing a round of pétanque. We never made it to the tennis court, but there was no shortage of ways to slow down and enjoy the setting. Reserve your stay at Parehua Resort here.

Where to eat (gluten-free) in Wairarapa

We are sure there are plenty more great places to eat, but we did find a few we loved, so we thought we would share them here:

• York Bistro, Martinborough
  A bit of a hidden gem, located at Parehua Resort in Martinborough, it’s open to the public, not just resort guests. The food was absolutely fabulous, with fresh, locally inspired dishes that were both creative and full of flavour. There was attention to every detail, from the attentive service to the interesting dinnerware. They seem to fully understand gluten-free and dairy-free and handled them with care. A truly impressive restaurant serving a truly unforgettable dinner, it’s one of the best meals I’ve had in a long time.
• Le Grá
  Alongside a wine tasting, we had Le Grá’s soon-to-be famous food platter. From homemade chutneys to cheeses, meats, pesto, olives, mushrooms, and even salmon, it was a smorgasbord of little treats, each crafted with love. For us, this was one of the more romantic things to do in Wairarapa.
• Entice Cafe, Masterton
  Super popular with locals, there is both indoor and outdoor seating. I had a delicious coffee, while Jeff also enjoyed a treat. The food in the cabinet looked great, and there were a few gluten-free options, but not coeliac-safe. 
• Lone Star, Masterton
  Classic Texas menu and best known for its ribs, Lone Star has several franchises throughout the country, and we have never been disappointed by any of them. I had a chicken dish with their famous buffalo chips – made in a separate gluten-free fryer. They go to great lengths to be allergy-safe, even providing an allergy checklist of every item on the menu if you ask for it. 
• Clareville Bakery, Clareville, just outside Carterton
  We got here just after they closed, but it was recommended by several members of Explore New Zealand, so we were sad we missed it.

What are your favourite things to do in Wairarapa?

Disclaimer: We worked alongside Destination Wairarapa and were provided with some complimentary entrances, tours, and accommodation in Wairarapa to aid in the writing of Albom Adventures. However, the opinions expressed here are strictly our own.