Welcome to Wairarapa

Wairarapa is a rugged and lesser-explored region, stretching from the southern coast below Wharekauhau northward through the lower North Island and east to the Pacific coast. Its name, ‘Wairarapa,’ meaning ‘Glistening Waters,’ reflects the shimmering lake views often seen in summer. This rural province is rich in history, natural beauty, and hidden gems.

Lake Ferry

Lake Ferry sits less than an hour from Wharekauhau, nestled between Lake Onoke and Palliser Bay. Renowned for fishing, surfing, and rich history, it’s where New Zealand’s earliest pastoral farming began in the 1840s. The Lake Ferry Hotel, established in 1851, remains a local icon, famous for its fresh flounder, whitebait fritters, and hearty seafood dishes. The walls tell stories through photographs, preserving the legacy of this charming coastal settlement.

Ngawi & Cape Palliser

Ngawi, a quirky fishing village just five kilometres from Cape Palliser, is famous for having more bulldozers than residents—used to launch boats from the beach in wild surf. A short drive leads to Cape Palliser, the southernmost tip of the North Island, home to the iconic Cape Palliser lighthouse and thriving fur seal colonies. This dramatic coastline captures the raw, untamed spirit of the region.

Greytown

Greytown, a boutique shopping treasure about 45 minutes north of the lodge, is a delightful blend of Victorian charm and modern artisan flair. Wander through beautifully restored wooden buildings housing specialty stores, cafes, and local boutiques. Unlike the uniformity of large city malls, Greytown offers unique finds, creative spaces, and a warm, village-style shopping experience.

Wellington, New Zealand’s ‘Coolest Little Capital,’ is a compact city with big charm. Set against a stunning harbour backdrop, Wellington is a foodie’s dream, known for its eclectic restaurant scene, world-class coffee, and relaxed, walkable streets. We can arrange a private driver and tailored itinerary to help you make the most of your Wellington experience. Highlights include the national museum, Te Papa, where private, behind-the-scenes tours offer intimate insights into New Zealand’s history and cultural treasures. Another unforgettable stop is WETA Films, the Oscar-winning special effects studio behind The Lord of the Rings, The Hobbit, and Avatar. Explore their workshops, meet the talented artists, and uncover the movie magic that put WETA on the world stage.

Martinborough’s story began with John Martin, who laid out the town’s streets in the pattern of a Union Jack. Originally known as Waihenga, this town has evolved into a celebrated wine region. Its colonial architecture, including the historic Martinborough Hotel, adds to its character. Known globally for its exceptional Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, and Chardonnay, Martinborough’s vineyards thrive in a unique microclimate of dry, stony soils and coastal breezes. Visitors can explore the vineyards by bike, enjoy local artisan markets, and sample fine wines in a setting where good food, music, and community spirit come together under the summer sun.

Featherston (Paetūmōkai) is a charming town nestled at the eastern foothills of the Remutaka Range in New Zealand’s Wairarapa region—just about an hour from Wellington. It proudly wears the title of New Zealand’s only official Booktown, home to numerous cozy bookstores, vintage shops, and literary festivals such as the Karukatea Booktown Festival. History enthusiasts delight in the Fell Locomotive Museum, featuring the world’s only preserved Fell steam engine once used on the infamous Rimutaka Incline. For star-gazers—or curious visitors—the remnants of the Carkeek Observatory, built in 1867, still stand on a nearby farm south of town.

Outdoor adventurers find plenty to love, particularly along the Remutaka Rail Trail—a stunning cycling and walking path repurposed from the old railway incline. Many guided E‑bike and mountain‑bike tours run from Featherston, making it a central hub for exploring the valley. Closer to town, the Wairarapa Moana wetlands and Lake Wairarapa offer peaceful walks, birdwatching, kayaking, and scenic drives, with abundant wildlife including eels, native birds, and freshwater species.

Everything in Featherston—from its creative café culture to themed heritage events and literary gatherings—invites visitors to linger, explore, and unwind. With its blend of quirky shops, book-laden streets, and artsy locals, Featherston inspires creativity and curiosity. Whether you’re biking the rail trail, hunting for a rare read, browsing the Fell engine museum, or simply savouring local cheese at the famous C’est Cheese café, Featherston promises a rich, uniquely New Zealand escape. So visit Featherston during your stay—you’ll leave feeling refreshed, enriched, and eager to return.

SUMMER | Dec – March | 20-30°C (68-86°F)

Hot, dry, and sun-drenched days with minimal wind make summer the quintessential Wairarapa experience. Stunning sunrises and sunsets are daily highlights.

AUTUMN | April – May | 10-18°C (50-64°F)

Crisp mornings give way to mild, dry afternoons. It’s the perfect time for exploring as the property glows with the colours of changing leaves.

WINTER | June – Sept | 10-15°C (50-59°F)

Winter invites you to cosy up by the fire and perhaps witness one of our famous southerly storms rolling across the coast.

SPRING | Oct – Nov | 15-24°C (59-75°F)

Spring brings longer daylight hours, blossoming gardens, and a fresh ocean breeze, signalling the start of warmer, settled weather.