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Take in the captivating atmosphere of Wharekauhau Lodge, where each moment is thoughtfully curated to deepen your connection with New Zealand's natural beauty and culture. Watch the waves of Palliser Bay as you relax by a warm fire, embark on a heritage farm tour, or savor local wine at world-renowned vineyards. Adventurers can ride ATVs along black sand beaches, fish, cycle, or enjoy an extraordinary outdoor dining experience. This is where every experience seamlessly blends relaxation, adventure, and indulgence.
Enquire Now View Sample Itineraries Experiences JournalUnwind under New Zealand’s pristine dark skies with a private, guided star gazing experience on your Cottage Terrace. Led by an expert astronomer, this 60-minute session offers an unforgettable celestial journey. Optional wine and cheese elevate this magical evening beneath the stars.
Discover the extraordinary beauty of New Zealand’s night sky with a private star gazing session, hosted on your own Cottage Terrace. Led by a passionate local astronomer, this intimate experience takes full advantage of Wairarapa’s certified dark-sky reserve, offering unmatched celestial clarity. Enjoy a guided exploration of constellations, planets, and galaxies in a 60-minute session that can be elevated with a curated cheese platter and a bottle of Te Kairanga John Martin wine. This is a truly magical way to end your evening, wrapped in a blanket of stars and peaceful seclusion.
Ideal For: The Explorer
Included: Private Experience on your Cottage Terrace
Add On: Bottle of Wine & Cheese Platter (+$230)
Duration: 60 minutes
Cancellation: 100% Cancellation Due after 8:30AM Day-Of
From $25 per person
Cycle through Martinborough’s vineyards with a self-guided tour supported by expert local tips and a gourmet picnic. This flexible, leisurely adventure offers wine lovers the chance to explore the region’s best offerings at their own pace.
Embark on a self-guided wine tour through Martinborough’s vineyards, known for their proximity to the charming village square. With an introduction from your local guide and all essentials provided, including an active backpack picnic, you’ll explore at your own pace, uncovering hidden gems and tasting exceptional wines along the way. Take the time to enjoy the scenic beauty, leisurely cycle routes, and the rich flavors of the region. Your day ends with a convenient transfer back to the lodge, where you can reflect on your discoveries.
Ideal For: The Explorer
Included: Active Backpack Picnic
Experience: Self-Guided Cycle Tour
Insider Knowledge from Our Guide
From $295 per person
Enjoy a luxurious golfing experience at Royal Wellington Golf Club, just a short helicopter ride or scenic drive from the lodge. Tee off at one of New Zealand’s premier parkland courses and return in time for afternoon relaxation, spa treatments, or sundowners overlooking the spectacular Wairarapa landscape.
Just a short 10-minute helicopter flight (or a scenic 70-minute drive) from the lodge, the prestigious Royal Wellington Golf Club awaits. As New Zealand’s premier private parkland course, Royal Wellington offers a superb golfing experience alongside the tranquil Hutt River near Silverstream. Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast before flying to your preferred tee time, returning in time for an indulgent afternoon spa session and sunset cocktails.
Ideal For: The Explorer
Experience: Play one of New Zealand's greatest Parkland courses
Add On: Transfers to and from the course (enquire for pricing)
From $300 per person
Discover the charm of South Wairarapa’s artisan community on this guided tour. Visit local producers including olive groves, chocolatiers, honey farms, and lavender fields. Enjoy tastings, meet passionate makers, and take advantage of unique shopping opportunities in this immersive cultural and culinary experience, with a delicious lunch included.
Embark on a guided journey through the charming villages of South Wairarapa, where you’ll meet talented local artisans dedicated to their craft. Visit an olive grove, a boutique chocolatier, a family-run honey producer, and a fragrant lavender farm. This delightful day offers a unique opportunity to sample, shop, and immerse yourself in the region’s artisanal culture.
Ideal For: The Explorer
Included: Lunch
Experience: Visit Local Artisans and Producers
Excellent Shopping Opportunities
Duration: All Day
From $375 per person
Experience the thrill of riding ATVs across black sand beaches, riverbanks, and open pastures. This two-hour guided adventure includes a comprehensive safety briefing and is suitable for both beginners and experienced riders. Enjoy stunning landscapes, coastal breezes, and an exhilarating connection to our natural surroundings.
Experience the thrill of exploring Wharekauhau’s rugged landscape by quad bike. This exhilarating adventure takes you across black sand beaches, scenic riverbanks, and open pastures, guided by experienced local hosts. After a comprehensive 20-minute safety briefing and equipment fitting, set off on an unforgettable two-hour ride that showcases the coastal wilderness, whether the sun is shining or the rain is falling.
Ideal For: The Adventurous
Maximum: 6 People
Age: 16+ Years
Included: Personal Guide
20 Minute Training
Protective Clothing
Experience: Black Sand Beaches
Scenic Rolling Pastures and Dramatic Riverbeds
Duration: 2 Hours
From $325 per person
Experience an authentic New Zealand working sheep station in a guided 4WD tour. Witness sheep shearing, sheepdogs in action, and daily farm life while enjoying panoramic views of the rugged countryside. This hands-on, enriching journey combines education, nature, and cultural discovery in a breathtaking location.
Embark on a captivating 4WD farm tour at Wharekauhau, a working sheep station set between the Remutaka Ranges and the Pacific Ocean. This immersive experience offers guests an authentic look into New Zealand’s rich farming heritage. Watch skilled sheepdogs in action and experience the art of sheep shearing up close. The knowledgeable guides provide fascinating insights into station life, local history, and daily operations. As you journey across the estate, you'll pause at scenic lookouts offering sweeping views—perfect for photography or quiet reflection. The tour departs daily at 9:30 AM and lasts approximately three hours, combining hands-on farming experiences with moments of relaxation in a truly stunning environment.
Ideal For: The Explorer
Experience: Working Sheep Station Tour
4-Wheel Drive Vehicle
Sheep Shearing Demonstrations
Sheep Dogs In Action
Daily Farm Events
Scenic Photo Stops
Duration: 3 Hours, Departs at 9:30AM Daily
From $195 per person
Gain exclusive access to Martinborough’s private cellars, taste wines straight from the barrel, and explore the key elements that shape world-class wines on this immersive, guided vineyard tour.
Delve deep into the Martinborough wine region with an intimate guided experience that explores the essential elements of winemaking: soil, barrels, vintage, and passion. This exclusive tour offers rare access beyond the cellar door to private cellars and barrel halls where you can sample wines directly from the barrel and taste vintage selections not typically available to the public. The day also includes a vineyard walk and in-depth insights into the craft of winemaking.
Throughout the tour, you’ll engage with the region’s artisans and enjoy lunch amidst the vineyards. Highlights include sampling aged vintages, learning the intricacies of soil composition, and uncovering the secrets that define Martinborough’s world-class wines. This tour offers wine enthusiasts a unique, behind-the-scenes glimpse into the artistry of New Zealand winemaking.
Ideal For: The Wine Explorer
Minimum: 2 People
Included: Lunch
Drawing Samples from the Barrel
A Walk and Taste in a Famed Barrel Hall
Dive into Older Cellared Vintages
Experience: A Trip Into The Private Cellar
A Comprehensive Tour and Education on Soil Structure
Optional: Book as a Private Experience (Enquire for Pricing)
Duration: Full Day
From $195 per person
Enjoy an array of complimentary lodge experiences, from croquet and tennis to hiking and mountain biking. Swim year-round in the heated saltwater pool or work out in the fitness centre before soaking in an ice bath, or relaxing in the outdoor hot tub or barrel sauna. No bookings are required—just relax and explore at your leisure.
At Wharekauhau, a range of complimentary lodge activities invite you to explore, relax, and enjoy the estate at your own pace. No pre-booking is required, and you’re welcome to experience them year-round. Try your hand at croquet on the manicured lawn, or play tennis, pickleball, or basketball on the multi-use court. Scenic hiking trails and cycling routes traverse the picturesque property, while the heated saltwater indoor pool offers a refreshing swim in any season. For fitness enthusiasts, a fully equipped gym and spa terrace with a hot tub await. These house activities are ideal for leisurely exploration and spontaneous adventure, ensuring there’s always something to enjoy just steps from your accommodation.
Experience: Croquet
Tennis
Pickleball
Basketball
Hiking and Mountain Biking
Heated Saltwater Indoor Pool
Hot Tub
Fitness Center
Ice Bath
Barrel Sauna
Included: Available Year-Round
No Pre-Booking Required
Complimentary
Sharpen your reflexes at one of the world’s most picturesque clay target ranges. With professional instruction and tailored experiences for all skill levels, you’ll shoot over a dramatic gorge and scenic stream beds. Choose from classic or advanced shooting options, with all equipment and safety gear provided.
Test your aim at one of the world’s most scenic clay target ranges, set within a dramatic gorge overlooking a rocky stream bed. Whether you’re new to the sport or an experienced shooter, this activity offers both classic and advanced options, complete with professional instruction, firearms, ammunition, and safety equipment.
Ideal For: The Adventurous
Maximum: 6 People
Age: 12+ Years
Classic Experience: 25 Clay Targets
Introduction to Sporting Clays
Advanced Experience: 75 Clay Targets
Progressive Shooting Stations, Including Thrilling
"Rolling Rabbit" Trap
Included: Firearms and Ammunition
Targets and Instruction
From $225 per person
Hauora Spa offers a holistic wellness experience inspired by Māori philosophy, focusing on physical, mental, social, and spiritual well-being. Surrounded by dramatic coastal beauty, it’s a place for healing, mindfulness, and deep connection with the land.
Wharekauhau is a place where nature’s raw beauty nurtures the soul. Hauora Spa is a celebration of this connection—a serene space inspired by the Māori philosophy of holistic well-being. Hauora emphasizes four essential pillars: Taha Tinana (physical well-being), Taha Hinengaro (mental well-being), Taha Whanau (social well-being), and Taha Wairua (spiritual well-being). Here, the rhythm of the ocean, the towering mountains, and the vast open skies create an atmosphere for true healing and renewal. Whether indulging in a restorative massage, practicing mindfulness, or simply breathing in the Pacific air, guests are invited to find balance and calm. Hauora Spa is not just a retreat—it is a mindful journey into harmony, inspired by the energy of the land.
Hauora Spa: from $140 per person
Body Massages: from $210 per person
Hauora Signature Wrap: from $555 per person
Foley Vine Body & Soul: from $595 per person
Facials & Masks: from $295 per person
Full Body Treatments: from $230 per person
FULL SPA MENU
Discover the stories behind six hand-selected wines in an intimate tasting guided by Wharekauhau’s expert Sommelier, offering an educational and indulgent wine journey.
Indulge your senses with a curated tasting led by the in-house Sommelier at Wharekauhau’s bespoke Sommeliers Table. Set in an intimate cellar environment, you’ll explore a selection of six wines, each chosen to showcase different regions, grape varieties, and vintages. The tasting sessions are tailored to your preferences, offering an educational and luxurious deep dive into New Zealand’s exceptional wines.
This is more than just a tasting—it’s a storytelling journey that brings the wine’s origins and craftsmanship to life. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or new to wine appreciation, this experience enhances your understanding and enjoyment of fine wine in an elegant, relaxed setting.
Ideal For: The Wine Explorer
Included: A Flight of 3+ Wines
Guided by a Sommelier in the Cellar
Light Grazing Board
Experience: Choose From Three Flights
-Deep In Marlborough: 6 Local Wines
-All The Same...No!: 3 Chardonnays + 3 Pinot Noirs
-Great Wines & Terroirs: 6 Local and Global Wines
Duration: 45 Minutes
From $195 per person
Set out on an eco-friendly e-bike adventure along Palliser Bay’s rugged coastline. Visit the secluded Muka Muka Bay for a scenic picnic and keep an eye out for local wildlife along the way. This flexible, self-paced exploration offers a unique combination of coastal beauty, relaxation, and light outdoor activity.
Explore the untouched beauty of the Palliser Bay coastline with our in-house e-bikes. Follow the coastal track to the secluded Muka Muka Bay, where a gourmet backpack picnic awaits amidst stunning natural scenery. Along the way, you may encounter native birdlife, coastal flora, and even sunbathing seals. After your ride, unwind with a soothing spa treatment at the estate.
Ideal For: The Explorer
Included: E-Bikes & Helmets
Explorers Backpack Picnic
Experience: Breathtaking Views & Wildlife
Suitable for All Fitness Levels
Reconnect with the ancient art of archery in a beautiful outdoor setting. Suitable for individuals, couples, and families, this activity includes full instruction and a wide selection of traditional and modern bows. Challenge yourself with stationary targets and dynamic walk-up 3D targets, making for a fun and rewarding experience.
Step into the timeless sport of archery, a perfect outdoor pursuit for couples and families. Under the guidance of expert instructors, learn the techniques of traditional recurve and modern compound bows. Test your skills on a variety of targets, from stationary boards to walk-up 3D challenges, all set against the serene backdrop of Wharekauhau.
Ideal For: The Adventurous
Minimum: 2 People
Included: Full Instruction
Wide Selection of Equipment
Walk-Up 3D Targets for a Dynamic Experience
Duration: 1 Hour
From $165 per person
Fish along the pristine shores of Palliser Bay with professional guidance or independent access to complimentary equipment. This 90-minute, small-group experience offers a chance to catch local species in a breathtaking coastal environment. Enjoy light snacks, sea breezes, and the calming rhythm of surf fishing in this intimate activity.
Cast a line along the sweeping coastline of Palliser Bay, one of New Zealand’s most bountiful fishing grounds. Guided beach fishing trips provide expert instruction and all necessary equipment, or you may choose to venture out independently using complimentary gear. When conditions are right, this is an unbeatable way to spend an afternoon by the sea.
Ideal For: The Adventurous
Minimum: 2 People
Maximum: 6 People
Included: Professional Instruction
Optional Use of a Fishing Kontiki
Light Snacks and Refreshments
Experience: Coastal Beach Fishing in Palliser Bay
Duration: 90 Minutes
Weather and Tide Dependent
From $255 per person
Enjoy a guided tour through Martinborough’s top boutique wineries, taste premium wines, and savor a leisurely vineyard lunch while exploring the region’s wine-making traditions.
Explore the boutique wineries of Martinborough on a guided tour that introduces you to some of the region’s finest winemakers and vineyards. You’ll taste premium Pinot Noir and Chardonnay while enjoying the beautiful vineyard landscapes. The tour is an excellent introduction to the area’s wine heritage and includes lunch at a local café or vineyard.
Your personal guide provides insights into the terroir and connects you with passionate local winemakers. Throughout the tour, you’ll walk through the vines, taste distinctive varietals, and perhaps bring home a few special bottles. This relaxed and immersive experience is perfect for travelers looking to explore Martinborough’s vibrant wine community.
Ideal For: The Wine Explorer
Included: Personal Guide
Wine Tastings
Lunch at a Local Vineyard or Café
Experience: A Stroll Through the Vines
Learn About Wine
Duration: Full Day
From $385 per person
Embark on a full-day coastal journey to Cape Palliser, visiting the charming village of Ngawi and observing one of New Zealand’s largest fur seal colonies. Climb the historic lighthouse for breathtaking views and enjoy classic fish and chips at the Lake Ferry Hotel before returning to the lodge.
Discover the dramatic southern coastline on this full-day adventure to Cape Palliser, New Zealand’s southernmost point. Travel through the historic fishing village of Ngawi, home to one of the country’s largest colonies of New Zealand fur seals. Climb the Cape Palliser Lighthouse for sweeping views across the Pacific Ocean, the South Island, and all the way to Antarctica on a clear day. On your return, enjoy classic fish and chips at the historic Lake Ferry Hotel, a local treasure overlooking Cook Strait.
Ideal For: The Explorer
Experience: Southern Point of the North Island
Cape Palliser Lighthouse
Seal Colony
Classic Kiwi Fish 'N Chips
Duration: Full Day, Departs at 10:00AM
From $375 per person
Experience a gourmet outdoor feast prepared by a private chef in one of Wharekauhau’s scenic estate locations, blending fine dining with the beauty of the wild.
Join our Chef for a remarkable ‘wild dining’ experience on Wharekauhau’s expansive 3,000-acre estate. You’ll be transported to a secluded outdoor location where a private chef prepares a gourmet picnic featuring hot, cold, savory, and sweet dishes. The flavors of each dish are elevated by the fresh air and spectacular surroundings, creating a truly unique dining memory.
Spend time exploring the beautiful estate, relax with a drink while your chef crafts dishes on-site, and savor a meal that celebrates local ingredients and the land itself. Available from November to April and weather permitting, this is an unforgettable culinary adventure immersed in nature.
Ideal For: The Foodie
Included: A Private Guide/Chef
A Selection of Savory & Sweet Dishes
Fruit Juices & Sodas
Experience: The Wild Wharekauhau Region
Local Foods
Optional: Book as a Private Experience (Enquire for Pricing)
Duration: 2-3 Hours, Weather Dependent
From $255 per person
Available November - April
Travel in comfort with private driver transfers to or from Wharekauhau. Enjoy seamless service from anywhere in New Zealand, with optional Wellington city tours for a personalized, relaxed journey.
Arrive or depart in comfort with our private driver service. A knowledgeable local guide will meet you at the airport or your chosen destination and provide a seamless 90-minute transfer to or from Wharekauhau. Transfers can also be arranged from anywhere in New Zealand, and bespoke city touring in Wellington can be added for those wishing to explore the capital en route. Personalized, stress-free, and tailored to your itinerary, this service ensures you travel with ease and in style.
Experience: Private driver transfers can be arranged to or from anywhere in
New Zealand
Add On: Wellington City Tour
Enquire for pricing
Fly between North and South Island vineyards on a scenic helicopter tour, sampling Foley Family wines and enjoying a gourmet picnic with breathtaking coastal views.
Take to the skies for an extraordinary wine journey across the North and South Islands. Visit three Foley Family vineyards, including Te Kairanga, Vavasour, and Grove Mill, sampling wines and exploring the distinct terroirs of Martinborough and Marlborough. This exclusive experience includes a gourmet picnic and scenic helicopter flights with panoramic views of New Zealand’s coastline and vineyards.
Your day includes tastings at each vineyard, opportunities to meet winemakers, and a scenic flight over Cape Palliser Lighthouse and the South Island’s rugged landscapes. It’s a unique blend of luxury, exploration, and the finest regional wines.
Ideal For: The Explorer
Maximum: 4 People
Included: Tour & Tastings at Vavasour, Grove Mill, and
Te Kairanga Vineyards
Scenic Flight Over the Marlborough & Martinborough Regions,
Cape Palliser Lighthouse, and the Rugged South-East Coast
Chef's Menu Lunch at Te Kairanga 'Runholder Restaurant'
Experience: The Difference in Wine Styles Between Two Regions
From $14,125
Save time and arrive in style with helicopter transfers to or from Wharekauhau. Flights from Wellington take just 12 minutes, with airside options for private jets and seamless ground transfers included.
For the ultimate arrival or departure, helicopter transfers offer a swift and stylish alternative. Travel from Wellington city’s heliport to Wharekauhau in just 12 minutes, or arrange helicopter access from other locations across New Zealand. For those arriving by private jet, airside helicopter operations can be coordinated directly from the airport for maximum convenience. Ground transfers between the airport and the heliport are provided, ensuring a smooth, luxurious door-to-door journey. This option is ideal for guests who value time, comfort, and a dramatic entrance to their coastal retreat.
Experience: Airside Helicopter Transfer at the Airport for Private Jets
Helicopter Transfers To or From Anywhere in New Zealand
Enquire for pricing
Discover the story behind Lighthouse Gin in this educational tasting experience, including cocktail-making tips and insights into gin’s history and unique local ingredients.
Embark on a one-hour guided tasting of Lighthouse Gin, a locally crafted spirit made with mountain spring water from Wharekauhau. Learn the story behind this distinctive gin, its production process, and the unique botanicals that set it apart. The session also covers the history of gin and practical cocktail-making tips.
Participants will mix classic gin-based cocktails, explore flavor pairings, and understand the importance of selecting the right tonic. This hands-on experience is perfect for gin enthusiasts and curious spirits alike, offering both education and indulgence.
Ideal For: The Gin Lover
Experience: Educational Tasting Tour
Learn About Gin-Based Cocktails
Duration: 1 Hour
From $135 per person