Wairarapa Region
The Wairarapa is a rural champion. Hard work has built this region into a restful area of family-run businesses, quiet streets and dedicated artisans. For the outdoor enthusiast, there’s everything from fishing to mountain biking; for the wine lover, there are sunny hillside vineyards; and for the outdoor-enthusiastic-wine-drinker there’s a “Walk the Wineries” trail! Wairarapa’s heritage towns offer a taste of simple living and respite from big-city pressures. You might even find yourself quietly charmed into staying longer than just the weekend.
Climate
Summer: 20 - 23°C
Winter: 12 - 7°C
Average rainfall: 1050mm/year
Cool Facts
• Starfish are the Paua's main predator as they have learnt to suffocate the Paua by putting their tentacles over the breathing holes. See where all those Paua souvenirs come from at Paua World in Carterton.
• The fertile, abundant region of Wairarapa translates to the "Land of Glistening Waters" in Maori. It was named this because in Maori culture, water is known as the essence of life.
• Cape Palliser is the southernmost point in the North Island.
• The “army of the dead” scene in
The Lord of the Rings was shot at Putangirua Pinnacles Scenic Reserve (Cape Palliser).
• You can tour 30 wineries all on foot in Martinborough.
• Archaeological research suggests the Wairarapa region may have been inhabited as early as the prehistoric period.
• Ditch the car and take the train between
Wellington and Wairarapa for amazing views!
Do more! Search towns and read more related articles below.
