Best Things to Do in the Wairarapa

The Wairarapa is a large region tucked away on the lower east coast of Aotearoa – New Zealand’s North Island. Life here feels laidback and relaxed, yet there’s always something new to explore. From rolling vineyards to rugged coastlines, the Wairarapa offers a mix of culture, history and natural beauty. Its coastal towns can be wild at times, but if you love surfing, fishing or simply being by the sea, you’ll find them charming and full of character.

Often overlooked because it sits away from State Highway 1, the Wairarapa is a fantastic alternative route if you’re travelling from Hawke’s Bay to Wellington. It’s not only more scenic than the middle road but also offers far more to see and do along the way. With wineries, iconic landmarks and historic towns, discovering the best things to do in the Wairarapa is all about slowing down and soaking in the scenery.

This is also one of our favourite places to come and stay. As keen fisherwomen and divers, we love the ocean vibe here — it’s laid back, the locals are amazing and it’s the kind of place where you can truly take a breath and slow down.

🍷 Wine Tour in Martinborough

Martinborough is the beating heart of the Wairarapa’s wine country. Despite its small size, the town has more than 20 cellar doors clustered around a charming village square. This makes it easy to explore by bike, with vineyard roads weaving past olive groves and lavender fields. The region is world-famous for its Pinot Noir, but you’ll also find crisp Sauvignon Blancs and elegant Rosés. Many wineries have boutique restaurants or platters that make a perfect long lunch under the sun. Guided wine tours are available for those who want to relax and let someone else do the planning.

Highlights:

• Cycle-friendly cellar doors within minutes of the village.
• Locally grown produce and artisan platters at many vineyards.
• Award-winning Pinot Noir, recognised internationally.

🌊 Visit Coastal Towns

The Wairarapa’s coastline is raw, remote and completely unforgettable. Castlepoint is one of the jewels, with a dramatic reef, sweeping bay and the famous lighthouse. Ngāwī, on the other hand, is a quirky fishing village where rows of bulldozers line the beach, hauling boats in and out of the surf. Over at Riversdale Beach, you’ll find golden sand, great surf, and a relaxed holiday vibe. These towns may be off the beaten path, but they are full of character and perfect for those who love the ocean.

Highlights:

• Castlepoint’s reef and long sandy beach, ideal for walks and fishing.
• Ngāwī’s bulldozers on the beach — one of the most photographed spots in the Wairarapa. (Our favourite diving spot)
• Riversdale’s surf breaks and wide beach, great for swimming and families. (Great Fishing spot)

🔦 Climb to the Rangiwhakaoma – Castlepoint Lighthouse

Perched dramatically on the headland, the Castlepoint Lighthouse is one of the most photographed in Aotearoa – New Zealand. The walk to the top is short but steep, winding over wooden stairs and cliffside paths. Once there, you’re rewarded with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, Castle Rock and the lagoon below. Sunrise and sunset are especially magical, when the sky lights up in pinks and oranges. Bring a jacket — the wind here can be fierce but it only adds to the wild beauty.

Highlights:

• Breathtaking panoramic views from the lighthouse.
• Best visited at sunrise or sunset for dramatic skies.
• Family-friendly walk with interpretive panels along the way.

🏞 Explore the Putangirua Pinnacles

The Putangirua Pinnacles are a geological wonder and one of the most dramatic landscapes in the North Island. These towering grey hoodoos were formed over millions of years by erosion and stand like a natural cathedral. The site was famously used in The Lord of the Rings as the “Paths of the Dead,” which makes it especially popular with fans. There are several walking tracks, ranging from short lookouts to more challenging routes that weave through the pinnacles themselves. Good footwear is a must, as the terrain is loose and steep in parts.

Highlights:

• Otherworldly stone formations shaped by erosion.
• Lord of the Rings filming location.
• Multiple walking tracks, from easy lookouts to longer hikes.

🏘 Visit Greytown

Greytown blends history with modern charm. Its main street is lined with Victorian-era wooden buildings, boutique shops and some of the best cafés in the lower North Island. Antique stores sit alongside artisan chocolate makers and there are plenty of places to stop for a glass of local wine. The town often hosts farmers’ markets and festivals, making it a lively hub. Strolling here is about soaking up the atmosphere — slow, stylish and welcoming.

Highlights:

• Farmers’ markets and seasonal festivals bringing the community together.
• Heritage architecture with boutique shopping.
• Award-winning cafés and chocolatiers.

🌟 Ready to Book Your Adventure?

The Wairarapa is full of coastal escapes, vineyard tours, and hidden gems waiting to be explored. Ready to book some adventures of your own? ✨ Check out the best tours, activities, and experiences here through our trusted partners — and start planning your trip today.

Final Thoughts

From wine trails to rugged coasts, iconic lighthouses, and charming towns, there are plenty of best things to do in the Wairarapa that showcase the region’s laidback yet adventurous spirit. Whether you’re here for the waves, the wine, or the wilderness, this part of Aotearoa has a way of leaving a lasting impression.

🌍 Travel Planning Resources

These are the tools we personally use and trust when planning our travels from finding a place to stay to booking activities, transport and insurance. Let your Tohu guide you — Trust the Journey and follow what feels right for you.

• ✈️Flights – Compare great deals with Trip.com then Kiwi.com for flexible, affordable options.
• 🚐 Campervans – Compare rental deals with Motorhome Republic across Aotearoa and beyond.
• 🛏️ Stays – Compare hotels on Trip.com and TripAdvisor or Booking.com.
• 🚐 Rental Cars – Compare prices and book through Airport Rentals by Motorhome Republic for trusted brands and easy airport pickup.
• 🎟️ Activities – Browse tours and experiences on Viator, Get Your Guide, or TripAdvisor
• 🚆12Go Asia – Compare and book trains, buses, and ferries across Asia in one place with 12Go.
• 🛡️ Travel Insurance – Get flexible short-term coverage with Insubuy for your next holiday.
• 🔒 Protect Your Privacy with a VPN – We recommend Surfshark VPN for secure and private browsing while travelling. It’s fast, affordable and works worldwide — perfect for public Wi-Fi at airports, cafes and hotels.
• 📱 Travel eSIM – Stay connected with Airalo
• 💼 Lounge Access – Treat yourself with Priority Pass – for UK or US
• 🎶 Events & Concerts – Book tickets worldwide through Ticketmaster.

🧭 Note: Some booking links can be a bit shy when you’re using a VPN. If one doesn’t open, try pausing your VPN or switching to a different server location or secure Wi-Fi network to get things flowing again.