Drive cross country from Martinborough or along the shores of Lake Wairarapa from Featherston to Lake Ferry. Savour seafood at the pub and soak in the rugged beauty of Palliser Bay. A short drive from Lake Ferry take a morning’s walk to the eerie Putangirua Pinnacacles, bizarre rock formations accessed along a dry stream bed or through bush. Discover important Maori archeological sites, a top-class winery, world renowned surfing along with hunting, sea fishing, and diving. The picturesque lake is an important wetland habitat for rare and migrating birds.
Drive onto Ngwai, a commercial fishing settlement, and on to the historic Cape Palliser Lighthouse. Work up an appetite on the 250 steps- you’ll be rewarded with stunning views. Head up the hill to ‘The Top House Tea Gardens’ for homemade cakes and pies. Or watch residents of the North Island’s largest native fur seal colony flopping in the sun nearby!
Spend the night at the Lake Ferry campground or hotel. Perhaps indulge yourself in award winning Wharakauhau Lodge’s discreet elegance and world-class hospitality across the lake.
Click on a town or region to discover what makes the Wairarapa unique.
